In June 2012, Applegarth Junior School became one of the first schools in the country to move from “special measures” to “good”. The New Addington school’s jump from Ofsted’s lowest category came less than six months after it went into partnership with The STEP Academy Trust.
Samantha Morgan-Price, the HMI leading the inspection, praised the impact of Paul Glover, The STEP Academy Trust Headteacher appointed to lead the school, and the existing Deputy, Alun Evans. “The relentless drive by the senior leadership team, driven by the passionate and highly effective new Headteacher and established Deputy Headteacher, has brought about the considerable changes to pupils’ outcomes”. The support given by the Trust was also highlighted as pivotal. “The excellent partnership with The STEP Academy Trust has resulted in improving teaching, strengthening the capacity at senior and middle leadership and supporting the rapid rise in achievement especially for the more‐able pupils”.