Dear Parents and Carers,
I am delighted to share with you the full report from our recent external review by Challenge Partners, which has provided invaluable insights into our academy’s progress and achievements.
Challenge Partners is a practitioner-led charity committed to raising standards and tackling educational inequality. Their peer-led Quality Assurance Review (QAR) is a rigorous and supportive process, offering schools a robust evaluation of strengths and areas for development, led by experienced senior leaders from across the country.
In May 2025, a team of senior school leaders from other settings visited Leigh Academy Hugh Christie for three days. During their visit, they observed lessons across a range of subjects and spent valuable time engaging with our pupils and staff. They also monitored the academy environment during lessons, breaktimes, and lunchtimes, gaining a full picture of daily life and learning at our academy.
I am incredibly proud to announce that the academy was judged as LEADING in the area of Leadership and EFFECTIVE in Quality of Provision. This is a significant milestone for us—it marks the first time we have received such high praise, a true testament to the dedication and hard work of our staff and pupils.
We are also proud to have been accredited with an Area of Excellence in Behaviour, Attitudes and Culture, recognising the inclusive and respectful culture we have built together—a culture rooted in high expectations, positive relationships, and strong community values.
Key strengths identified in the report include:
- Ambitious and Unified Leadership
“Senior leaders have successfully transformed the ethos of this school” with “very high expectations…relentlessly pursued,” resulting in an “ambitious and positive learning environment.” - Strong Community and Culture
A “very strong and infectious sense of belonging, cohesion and community” was seen across the academy, underpinned by a shared vision and inclusive values. - Behaviour and Attitudes
A consistent, warm-but-strict behaviour strategy has led to “disruption-free learning,” with significant improvements in attendance, behaviour, and student outcomes. Over 80% of all logged events are now positive behaviour points. - Curriculum Quality
The academy offers a “rigorous, broad and balanced curriculum,” enhanced by the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme. Teaching is thoughtfully adapted to meet individual needs and regularly reviewed for impact. - Support for Disadvantaged and SEND Students
A “very strong culture of inclusion” is evident, with strategic support for SEND and pupil premium learners. Staff know their students well and tailor their teaching to ensure everyone can thrive. - Personal Development
The academy delivers a “spiral personal development curriculum” that covers key areas such as well-being, relationships, and online safety. This is complemented by a rich offer of enrichment activities and a strong careers programme.
To learn more about Challenge Partners and their review process, please visit www.challengepartners.org.
Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership. It is through our shared commitment to the success of every child that we are able to make such meaningful progress.
As we look ahead, we remain focused on building on these strengths and continuing to create the best possible opportunities for our pupils. Together, we will keep striving for excellence and unlocking the potential in every learner.
Yours sincerely,
Palak Shah | Principal
