Co-op Academy Glebe is a small primary school located in Fenton, Stoke-on-Trent, which has recently undergone an inspection by Ofsted. The inspection took place on June 12 and 13, 2024, and the school received an overall effectiveness rating of outstanding. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as outstanding. The school has not been previously inspected under section five of the Education Act 2005, but it was previously recognized as outstanding when it operated as Glebe Primary School before converting to academy status in 2013.
The head of school, Kirsty Suleman, leads a dedicated team that is part of the Co-operative Academies Trust, overseen by CEO Chris Tomlinson and a board of trustees chaired by Russell Gill. The school serves a diverse student body, with 237 pupils enrolled, and offers a nurturing environment where students feel safe and valued. The school emphasizes strong relationships between staff and pupils, ensuring that every child is known as an individual and treated with respect and kindness.
Pupils at Co-op Academy Glebe enter the school with starting points below expectations for their age but leave having made exceptional progress across all areas of learning. The school has high expectations for all students, fostering a culture of determination and commitment to learning. The curriculum is well-structured, with intentional links made across subjects and year groups, which deepens pupils' knowledge and understanding. The school places a strong emphasis on early reading, ensuring that all staff delivering phonics are well-trained and that assessments are ongoing to support students effectively.
The school is highly inclusive, with a skilled team in place to support pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Staff are adept at identifying these needs and providing tailored support, allowing all pupils to achieve to a high standard alongside their peers. The behavior of pupils is exemplary, with a strong focus on maintaining a positive learning environment. Pupils are articulate, well-mannered, and demonstrate high aspirations for their futures, supported by the school’s commitment to teaching about various career options.
Co-op Academy Glebe also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities and enrichment opportunities, which contribute to the personal development of pupils. These include residential trips and various leadership roles that help build confidence and a sense of community. The school’s leadership is characterized by skill, determination, and integrity, with staff fully engaged in the school’s vision. Governors are effective and committed, ensuring that the school continues to perform at a high level.
The arrangements for safeguarding at the school are effective, creating a safe and supportive environment for all pupils. The school’s commitment to the well-being and development of its students is evident in its practices and the positive feedback from the community. Overall, Co-op Academy Glebe stands out as a high-performing institution that makes a significant difference in the lives of its pupils, who take pride in being part of the school community. The school’s dedication to excellence in education and personal development is reflected in its outstanding inspection results, showcasing its role as a vital educational establishment in the area.
