Wakefield school where 'pupils feel protected' celebrate Ofsted report
A school that was once placed in special measures is celebrating a major step forward after inspectors recognised significant progress across Cherry Tree Academy.
The latest Ofsted inspection report has now been published, with the school achieving ‘Expected Standard’ across several areas and ‘Strong Standard’ for leadership and governance under Ofsted’s new inspection framework.
The findings represent a significant milestone in Cherry Tree Academy’s improvement journey and have been welcomed by school leaders as recognition of the hard work and determination of staff, pupils, families and governors.
Inspectors also highlighted improving outcomes, particularly at Key Stage 2, reflecting the impact of work to strengthen teaching, learning and pupil achievement.
While the report identifies achievement as an area that still requires attention, the school says the findings demonstrate that its improvement work is having a positive impact and that strong foundations are now in place for continued progress.
Headteacher Adam Dawson said: “This represents an important milestone in the school's improvement journey and is a testament to the dedication, commitment and hard work of our staff, pupils, families and wider school community.
"Although we recognise that there is still work to do, there is much to celebrate in the progress made and the strong foundations now in place for continued improvement.”
The school believes the progress is the result of a collective effort involving everyone connected with the academy.
A key positive message from the inspection is the improvement being seen in pupil outcomes.
In particular, inspectors recognised that outcomes are improving at Key Stage 2, providing encouragement that the changes being made in the classroom are beginning to translate into better results for pupils.
Open Day announced for future pupils
The school is also looking ahead to the next generation of Cherry Tree Academy pupils, with an Open Day for children starting school in September 2027.
Prospective families will have the opportunity to visit the school on Saturday, November 14 , 2026 from 10am–1pm where they can meet staff, explore the school environment and discover more about what Cherry Tree Academy has to offer.
The Open Day comes at an exciting time for the school as it continues its improvement journey and builds on the progress recognised by inspectors.