Ofsted found a school has shaken off a culture of low expectations, but still must do more to boost its 'requires improvement' rating.

An inspector completed a monitoring visit on March 12 at Future Academies Watford, in Horseshoe Lane, to assess progress since its inspection in 2022.

Overall, the report published today (May 8) said: “Leaders have made progress to improve the school, but more work is necessary for the school to become 'good'.”

Areas where Ofsted spotted improvements had already been made were wide-ranging and included the school’s atmosphere, behaviour, and learning.

It said the new leadership have “acted quickly” and addressed “a culture and ethos of low aspiration and expectation”.

In a good sign for the next full inspection, the report acknowledged that it is still too early to determine the impact of some new strategies but noted that early indicators suggest a positive impact.

Principal Sam Fox said: “We are delighted that the monitoring inspection report from Ofsted has now been published, which recognizes the strides we have taken since the previous assessment.”

He added that it “underlines the progress we have made”.

While the inspector found that the classrooms he visited were “calm and peaceful”, he noticed some "passive and disengaged behaviour" where students can “switch off” and not pay attention at times.

A few students, particularly younger pupils, did report feeling unsettled by occasional boisterous behaviour in corridors.

The school's principal acknowledged that there are still areas in need of attention, but said the school drew motivation from its progress being confirmed.

“Under the guidance of our executive team and the support of our dedicated staff, we have reinvigorated our focus on critical areas for improvement,” he added.

“Efforts to combat low aspirations and expectations have borne fruit, resulting in a more conducive environment where students are happier, exhibit improved behaviour, and are more actively engaged in their studies.

“We look forward to this summer's examination series and a further visit from Ofsted next academic year."

A school will be subject to monitoring from inspectors if it is judged as requires improvement at two successive inspections.