A SCHOOL in North Cornwall is celebrating following a remarkable turnaround in its Ofsted rating.

Staff and students at Jacobstow Community Academy are celebrating an impressive transformation after being rated Good in all areas by Ofsted – a significant leap from its previous Inadequate judgement. The turnaround follows the school’s joining of the Learning Academy Partnership (LAP), which has played a pivotal role in driving rapid improvements in the quality of education, leadership, and personal development.

In their latest report, Ofsted inspectors praised the school for delivering a high-quality, ambitious curriculum and creating an environment where pupils “flourish” both academically and personally. Inspectors found that pupils engage well in lessons, meet high expectations, and develop into confident and resilient young people.

Trust CEO Tracey Cleverly shared her pride in the collective effort behind the success: "I am so proud of the children, Jacobstow colleagues as well as colleagues from across our school Trust family, along with incredible support from families, who have enabled this school to move from Inadequate to Good. We hope that parents are assured by the inspection's validation of the ambitious curriculum, high quality education but also the commitment to a high quality personal development offer which enables our children to become confident and resilient young people who are ready for their next step."

Inspectors were particularly impressed with the school’s nurturing environment and sense of community. Pupils were described as kind, well-mannered, and full of pride for their school. They greet staff and visitors “with a warm welcome and a cheery smile,” and show a strong sense of moral purpose.

Headteacher Michelle Jones expressed her pride in the achievement, saying: "I couldn't be prouder than I am right now – Jacobstow is a very special place and it is my absolute privilege to lead this school community. The success of this Ofsted is a result of the collective efforts of many dedicated professionals both within the school and across our trust – a trust that puts children at the heart of everything we do.

"Donna Briggs – the Ofsted inspector – really understood what Jacobstow is all about. We truly are, as our vision says: A place where children grow, flourish and achieve the extraordinary."

Parent Kerensa Cobbledick also reflected on the school’s journey and its impact on her family: "As parents of two children at this school, we couldn’t be more pleased. We had every confidence in the direction the new headteacher and leadership team were taking—and they’ve exceeded our hopes. The transformation has been incredible. Our children come home buzzing with excitement about what they’ve learned, and they genuinely love their teachers and the warm, supportive atmosphere.

“The care, ambition, and high standards across the board are clear to see. The school’s strong leadership has brought a renewed focus on quality education and high expectations for every child. Perfectly situated in the heart of the Jacobstow community and surrounded by beautiful countryside, the school is clearly on the high road to a bright and successful future—and we’re proud to be part of it."