'Inadequate' West Walsall E-ACT Academy now making progress
A previously failing school is making good progress in leaving special measures, Ofsted has said.
West Walsall E-ACT Academy, which caters for around 700 pupils, was put in special measures after serious failings were found.
But, after a recent inspection, education watchdog bosses have said the school is making progress and can now employ new teachers.
The school was rated 'inadequate' in 2014 and again in March last year.
Click here to read the full Ofsted report
After that inspection the school was rated inadequate overall, including being rated inadequate for its leadership, quality of teaching, pupil outcomes and behaviour.
A damning reported prepared by inspectors said: "The quality of teaching, learning and assessment is inadequate.
"Expectations of what pupils are capable of achieving are too low and learning lacks pace and challenge."
However, a new report just released has revealed the school is now making progress.
Inspector Peter Humphries said in a report: "Having considered all the evidence, I am of the opinion that at this time that leaders and managers are taking effective action towards the removal of special measures.
"The trust's statement of action and the school's improvement plan are fit for purpose."
In 2015 the school was banned from appointing any new teachers because of its failings, however this has now been lifted.
In praising new head Qamar Riaz, Mr Humphries added: "Since the previous inspection, there have been significant changes to teaching and leadership."
Mr Riaz said: "The report acts as a useful benchmark to acknowledge the significant progress. However, I am not complacent and acknowledge that further progress and improvements are needed."
