Sometimes, schools don’t need a formal inspection to tell them what they’re doing well, because children and families already know.
In the summer of 2025, parents at Aerodrome Primary Academy were sharing their experiences on camera. They spoke about a school that felt like family, where trust, strong communication, and a sense of belonging stood out, not just for their children, but for families too.
As one parent put it, “The vibe and atmosphere at Aerodrome is kind of like one big family. It’s one of the reasons I wanted my son to go to this school.”
That strong foundation was reflected again in the autumn, when Ofsted visited the school under the new inspection framework.
Aerodrome is no stranger to being at the forefront of change. As one of the first schools to join REAch2 Academy Trust, and one of the first 20 schools nationally to be inspected under the new Ofsted inspection framework, this inspection marked an important moment for the school and a significant milestone for the Trust, as its first school to be inspected under the updated approach.
Understandably, new frameworks can bring some nerves, but at Aerodrome, the focus stayed on the day-to-day experience of pupils: how they’re supported, how they learn, and how they’re helped to thrive.
The outcome? A school meeting expected standards across all areas of its provision, with strengths recognised, particularly around inclusion, support, and the culture staff have worked hard to build.
Support for pupils with additional needs is part of everyday life at Aerodrome. Staff notice things early, respond quickly, and make sure all pupils can learn alongside their peers wherever possible. It’s not about children fitting into a system – it's about the system flexing around the child.
You can see the impact of this approach in how children move around the school: calm, comfortable, and confident They feel safe, known and comfortable being themselves. Relationships are warm and respectful, and older pupils naturally look out for younger ones. There’s a strong sense that everyone belongs here.
Parents recognise this care in action. One parent captured it this way: “I would recommend Aerodrome to other families, because I have seen first hand how happy my two girls are here. I've seen the progress that they've made. I can see first hand how hard staff are working and actually how supportive the staff are to make them happy at the school, and that, in turn makes the children happy.”
Learning at Aerodrome focuses on developing the whole child – academically, socially and emotionally – supported by a rich range of experiences that bring learning to life beyond the classroom.
Through the trust’s 11 Before 11 programme and the school’s own enrichment offer, children enjoy meaningful experiences, from cultural visits to community projects that broaden horizons and raise aspirations.
Families also value the school’s clear and consistent communication, described by one parent as “second to none”.
Underpinning it all is strong leadership and a positive staff culture. Leaders know their school well. Staff feel supported and motivated. And children feel it every day.
