THE JCB Academy has achieved a ‘Good’ rating from government inspectors in its latest Ofsted report.
JCB said the Rocester-based school, which has 810 students, was cited for its excellent connections with industry and the outstanding employability skills of learners. The report maintains the Academy’s unbroken record of ‘Good’ ratings from Ofsted since its first one in May 2014.
The specialist engineering and business academy, which is sponsored by JCB, was praised for its teaching in close collaboration with employer partners such as JCB, Toyota, Bosch Rexroth, Rolls-Royce, National Grid, and Harper Adams University.
Chair of governors and JCB group HR director, Max Jeffery, said, “The educational experience at The JCB Academy is second to none and provides an outstanding platform for students to not only excel academically but also prepare for their future careers. This report reflects the Academy’s unwavering commitment to providing a nurturing and supportive learning environment, alongside a rigorous and ambitious curriculum tailored to meet the needs of all learners.”
The JCB Academy principal Jim Bailey added, “We are immensely proud of our learners, staff, and the strong support from our industry partners. This report is a testament to our collective hard work and dedication to not only meet, but exceed, the educational standards expected of us.”
Jim Malin, hydraulic training manager at Bosch Rexroth, commented, “The Ofsted rating is no surprise, and a well-deserved recognition of overall excellence. Learners’ readiness for the industry is a testament to the Academy’s high standard of teaching and the employability skills instilled in learners.”
Based in a former cotton mill, the Academy is a non-selective school for 13-to-18-year-olds within an 18-mile radius.
For Years 9 and 10, 645 applicants applied for the 210 places on offer, indicating the Academy will again become the ‘most over-subscribed’ educational establishment in Staffordshire and Derbyshire.
