In their report, inspectors spoke positively about the school’s provision for students during the pandemic stating: “Leaders have ensured that pupils continue to study the usual range of subjects in the school’s curriculum, whether in school or at home. Many parents commented positively on leaders’ efforts to provide education over the past year and the support provided for remote learning.”

Inspectors also praised the Academy’s support for students across a number of areas, from careers education and personal development to reading. The report says: “Pupils who struggle with reading receive the extra help they need to improve their reading knowledge. Leaders have increased opportunities for all pupils to read more widely and develop their vocabulary across subjects.”

The report found that leaders have made improving the learning of students with SEND in the main school a priority, commenting: “Leaders have ensured that vulnerable pupils and pupils with SEND continue to get the help and support from outside agencies that they need. The specialist unit provides effective support for pupils’ academic and personal development.”

The Academy’s last full inspection took place in April 2019, with inspectors noting “rapid improvements to morale and to the culture of the school.” Following changes to government guidance and lockdown restrictions, the latest monitoring inspection was carried out remotely, with inspectors holding virtual meetings with members of SLT, curriculum leaders, the SENCo, pupils, members of the governing body and Trust.

Simon Underwood, Principal at Corby Business Academy, said: “I am incredibly proud of the findings of our latest Ofsted monitoring inspection. Despite the challenges of the last year, we have continued to work hard to provide high-quality educational experiences for our students, nurturing and valuing their individual skills and aspirations. This has been matched and supported by our incredible community relationships with students, parents and carers.

“It is great to see Ofsted recognise the progress we have made so far, supported by our colleagues from Brooke Weston Trust. I’d like to thank all staff for the hard work and dedication they have shown in helping us to achieve this report.”

Corby Business Academy is part of local multi-academy trust, Brooke Weston Trust. Inspectors praised the role of the Trust in the Academy’s success stating: “The Trust has provided practical support, for example by developing policies and procedures for providing education and support with technology, that has enabled you to focus fully on providing education in the current circumstances.” The report continued “They have ensured that throughout the pandemic, leaders have kept focused on improving the quality of education.”