A Daylesford Delight: Academy’s Ofsted Success as Part of SAPMAT
In June 2025, Daylesford Academy proudly welcomed its first full Ofsted inspection since joining the Solihull Alternative Provision Multi Academy Trust (SAPMAT) in 2022—and the results are nothing short of spectacular.
The academy was graded ‘Good’ across: Quality of Education, Behaviour and Attitudes, Personal Development, and Leadership and Management. This achievement is a powerful testament to the relentless commitment, collaboration, and care that define the SAPMAT community.
A Journey of Transformation
Daylesford Academy opened its doors as part of SAPMAT just three years ago, with a clear mission: to re-engage young people who have faced significant barriers in mainstream education. Many of the pupils arrive with complex social, emotional, and mental health needs, often having missed years of schooling. Yet, within this short time, the school has become a place where students feel safe, valued, and inspired to learn.
The Ofsted report highlights how pupils at Daylesford “develop self-confidence” and “begin to feel happy in school for the first time.” This transformation is not accidental—it is the result of a deeply embedded culture of care, high expectations, and a belief in every child’s potential.
Longstanding Headteacher Tina Whitehouse with over 25 years of experience, has captained the Daylesford team to realise this great achievement. Tina comments:
“I am absolutely delighted to share the outcome of our recent Ofsted inspection. The report, which is now available on our website, highlights the many strengths of our school and recognises the dedication, hard work, and passion of our entire school community. This outcome reflects the tremendous efforts of our staff, the support of our parents and carers, and of course, the incredible attitude and behaviour of our students, who continue to inspire us every day.”
A Trust-Wide Effort
While the inspection focused on Daylesford, the success belongs to the entire SAPMAT family. From the leadership of CEO Stephen Steinhaus and the strategic oversight of the Board of Trustees, to the daily dedication of staff across the whole Trust, this was a truly a team effort.
The report commends the “dedicated leaders’ effective partnership with a caring trust,” noting that both school and trust leadership are “committed to providing the best opportunities for the pupils and families they serve.” This collaborative ethos is what makes SAPMAT unique. Expertise is shared, challenges are tackled collectively, and every school benefits from the strength of the whole.
Whether it’s curriculum development, safeguarding, SEND support, staff training or services support, the trust’s central team works hand-in-hand with school leaders to ensure that no child is left behind. The result? A school that not only meets the needs of its learners but helps them thrive.
Relentless in Pursuit of Progress
At SAPMAT, we often talk about being relentless (it’s one of our charter values)—relentless in our pursuit of equity, inclusion, and excellence. Daylesford’s Ofsted success is a shining example of what that looks like in practice.
The school’s curriculum is described as “growing and developing,” with learning pathways tailored to individual needs. Staff are praised for their subject knowledge and their commitment to improvement. And while the report rightly identifies areas for further development—such as improving attendance and early reading support—it also recognises the school’s clear plans and capacity to address them. As Tina says:
“While we are thrilled with this report, we are not complacent. We remain fully committed to building on this success and continuing to provide the best possible education for all our young people.”
This consistent and continuous drive is not about perfection; it’s about progress. It’s about never settling, always reflecting, and constantly evolving to meet the needs of our learners.
A Culture of Belonging and Aspiration
Perhaps most powerfully, the report captures the sense of belonging that defines Daylesford. Pupils are described as “perceptive” and “respectful,” with a strong understanding of their responsibility to make others feel welcome. They engage in enrichment activities, explore career pathways, and leave with ambitions to contribute positively to society.
This is the heart of what SAPMAT stands for: not just academic success, but personal growth, social responsibility, and a belief in brighter futures.
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate this milestone, we also look forward. The journey doesn’t end here. The feedback from Ofsted provides a valuable roadmap for continued improvement, and the Trust remains committed to supporting Daylesford—and all its provisions and pathways—on the next stage of their development.
To the staff, students, families, and wider SAPMAT community: thank you, the Daylesford Academy team. This success is yours. It is the result of your passion, your resilience, and your belief in what’s possible when we work together.
As the Trust Director of Education, James Morris says:
"The final report stands as a testament to the dedication and hard work of both staff and students. It marks a significant milestone in the school’s journey—one that everyone should take great pride in."
Read the full report here:
Daylesford Academy Ofsted Report June 2025
Here’s to Daylesford Academy—proof that with the right support, every child can thrive.