Seaton Academy handed 'Requires Improvement' Ofsted rating

The inspection had occurred when Robert Barton had been headteacher for less than two weeks.

Before Christmas, inspectors revisited the Workington school, moving the academy to the 'Requires Improvement' category.

Inspectors said that the "increased expectations and ambition of leadership at all levels has contributed considerably to the turnaround of the school’s fortunes."

Robert Barton, headteacher at Seaton Academy (Image: Seaton Academy)

They added that "no time has been wasted in taking decisive action to tackle the areas of weakness identified at the previous inspection."

Mr Barton said: "This is recognition that we have turned a corner and that we have shown rapid improvement.

"To be moved out of a ‘Category of concern’ in just over a year is a testimony to our hard work.

"We are not quite at the stage where we can crack open the champagne, but this is welcome news and shows that we are on the right trajectory."

Offering his gratitude to staff and governors for their tireless efforts, he emphasised a continued commitment towards further improvements.

Mr Barton said: "As a school, we are certainly not resting on our laurels and work continues to make Seaton Academy the best it can be.

"We are beginning to realise our potential, and we are now in a much better position to help the children realise theirs.

"The hard work continues."

The Headteacher acknowledged the support of Mark Jenkinson MP, thanking him for his representations to the Department for Education, Ofsted and Cumberland Council.

The MP said: "Mr Barton was as good as his word.

"He said he would turn the fortunes of the school around, and he has done just that – with the help of staff and governors.

"I have every faith in Seaton Academy to keep improving.

"The turnaround has been nothing short of remarkable."