A Teesside primary school has been judged to be “good” in all areas.

Ofsted visited Sunnyside Academy in Coulby Newham, Middlesbrough in November 2023 as part of its national programme of school inspection.

The Ofsted report says: “The school has made huge strides in the quality of education provided for pupils.

“This is a highly inclusive and caring school. Pupils with additional needs work alongside each other and their classmates with a smile. Pupils say this is one of the best things about school. Pupils accept each other for being just the way they are.

“Teachers expect pupils to do their best. Pupils make an effort with the presentation of work and take pride in their books. Most pupils achieve well and demonstrate a love of reading. Pupils benefit from a calm and supportive environment in which they can learn.”

Sunnyside Academy is home to 282 pupils between the age of three and 11. It is a mainstream school with provision for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), particularly those with visual and hearing impairments.

The report continues: “The school’s provision for pupils with SEND is excellent. Pupils are supported by staff with great skill, passion and knowledge. Whether in the resource bases or mainstream classes, pupils thrive.

“The school’s curriculum is ambitious and of good quality. In most subjects, the key knowledge pupils need is spelled out clearly and linked intelligently by broad themes.

“In lessons, pupils behave very well. They are attentive and keen to learn. They say lessons are fun. Children show curiosity and imagination.

“The school works hard to make sure that pupils are well prepared for the next stage of their education, promoting ambition and aspiration. A careers fair helps to make pupils aware of different career paths, widening pupils’ understanding of the world of work.”

The report concludes by describing systems of governance as “highly effective”.

It says: “The local governing committee provides objective oversight and challenge. The trust provides high-quality support. School staff talk of a team approach based on mutual support and an ethos of positivity.”

Julie Sutton, Headteacher of Sunnyside Academy said: “I am incredibly proud of the whole school community, pupils, parents and staff. We have worked hard together to make Sunnyside Academy such a vibrant and inclusive school where everyone is welcome.”

Sunnyside Academy became the eighth primary school under the umbrella of Ad Astra Academy Trust when it joined in April 2022.

Andy Brown OBE, Chief Executive Officer of Ad Astra Academy Trust, commented: “This is a really pleasing report and is testimony to the fantastic progress that Sunnyside has made.

“I would like to congratulate staff, pupils, parents/carers and everyone else who has contributed to such a positive report.”

The other primary schools within Ad Astra are Ayresome in Middlesbrough, Barnard Grove, Brougham, West Park and West View in Hartlepool and Crooksbarn and Rosebrook in Stockton-on-Tees.

Ad Astra Academy Trust was formed in 2015 and over the last nine years has grown across the Tees Valley, providing education for over 3,500 pupils and over 500 employees in Middlesbrough, Stockton-on-Tees and Hartlepool.

Children and staff at Sunnyside Academy celebrate their “good” Ofsted rating.

The link below will take you to the full Ofsted report.