Lipson Co-operative Academy, part of the Ted Wragg Trust, is celebrating a successful Ofsted inspection, with the report recognising high standards across the school and a strong culture of care, ambition and inclusion.  

Inspectors visited the Plymouth school in April to review all aspects of provision, including achievement, behaviour, curriculum and leadership. The outcome saw Lipson achieve ‘strong’ judgements in three areas alongside ‘expected’ in the remaining four, demonstrating consistent quality and high standards aligned with the Trust’s approach to education.  

Under Ofsted’s new framework, the ‘expected’ standard represents a high level of provision, while ‘strong’ identifies particularly effective and impactful practice.  

The report highlights the school’s positive ethos and relationships, noting that pupils are “proud to belong to the ‘Lipson Family’”. Inspectors describe a welcoming environment where “happiness, warmth and kindness permeate the corridors and classrooms”, and where pupils feel supported and valued. 

Strengths were identified in Inclusion, Leadership & Governance, and Personal Development & Wellbeing. Staff were praised for their dedication, demonstrating an “unwavering commitment” to ensuring all pupils are safe, happy and able to succeed. Inspectors also recognised a strong staff culture, with colleagues feeling valued by leaders. 

Pupils were commended for their behaviour, attitudes and engagement in learning. Alongside academic progress, students develop important personal skills, leaving Lipson as confident and resilient young people, well prepared for their next steps. Parents and carers were also noted to have confidence in the school and its leadership. 

 

 

Tom Goodman, Headteacher at Lipson Co-operative Academy, said: 
“This is a magnificent achievement for everyone connected with Lipson – our students, staff, families and wider community. We are really so proud of them all. Ofsted judgements are important, however, they represent just one measure of a school's success. 

“For us, success is also seen in the happiness, personal growth and achievements of our students, the strength of our relationships with families and the positive culture that exists throughout our school community.” 

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust, said: 
“Congratulations to everyone at Lipson Co-operative Academy on this impressive outcome. It reflects the strong, shared commitment within the school community to providing the very best for every young person. 

“Across the Ted Wragg Trust, we are driven by a belief in the power of education to change lives. This report highlights that in action at Lipson, where strong relationships, high expectations and a focus on wellbeing are helping students to flourish. 

“We are proud to see this recognised and remain committed to working together to build on these successes, supporting every student to achieve their ambitions and thrive in the future.”