Leigh Academies Trust is proud to confirm that Leigh Academy Milestone has once again been recognised by Ofsted as Outstanding following its most recent inspection on 3rd and 4th June 2025. This marks the academy’s fourth consecutive outstanding judgement, reaffirming its status as a national leader in special education.
Inspectors praised the academy’s “transformative” provision, stating:
“Pupils’ education is of the highest quality at this transformative school. Staff have consistently high aspirations for pupils and ensure that they meet them.”
Principal Sarah Goosani welcomed the outcome:
“This judgement is a direct reflection of the extraordinary dedication, professionalism and care shown by our staff every day. Staff understand each pupil deeply and work tirelessly to remove barriers and build independence. I’m incredibly proud that their efforts have been recognised at the highest level for the fourth time. Our community is united by a shared purpose which is to give every pupil the best possible education and this outcome confirms that we are doing exactly that.”
The inspection found that pupils make exceptional progress against their education, health and care plan (EHCP) targets, supported by skilled and highly knowledgeable staff. Inspectors noted:
“Teachers are experts in their subjects. One pupil said, ‘teachers take time to explain learning to us’. This is evident in their careful explanation of learning using personalised communication strategies.”
The quality of relationships was also highlighted:
“Staff build warm and caring relationships with pupils… Pupils have trusted adults that they know will manage any concerns they have… They feel happy and safe in school.”
Reading is a core focus, starting in the early years and delivered through personalised phonics programmes. As a result:
“Pupils become confident readers over time.”
The curriculum is precisely matched to need, and pupils are equipped with the skills to flourish academically, socially, and emotionally. The sixth form was described as particularly strong:
“Students in the sixth form benefit strongly from the excellent opportunities they enjoy… These experiences help students to thrive in their next steps.”
Simon Beamish, CEO of Leigh Academies Trust, commented:
“The Ofsted team recognised what we see daily at Milestone: the exceptional efforts of a staff team who know their pupils deeply and give everything to help them succeed. Milestone’s sustained excellence is the result of relentless care, expertise and ambition for every learner.”
Inspectors praised the academy’s outstanding approach to personal development, noting how pupils are supported to grow in confidence, resilience and maturity. They also confirmed that safeguarding is effective and embedded across the school.
Most importantly, Inspectors recognised that: “Pupils love school. This is clear in the smiles and warm welcome they give staff on arrival each day.” That simple moment reflects the strength of relationships, the consistency of care and the trust built across the school.
