King’s Phoenix Celebrates Ofsted Recognition, with Personal Development Deemed ‘Outstanding’

King’s Leadership Phoenix Academy, part of the Great Schools Trust is proud to share the results of its recent Ofsted inspection, which recognises the school’s strong performance across all key areas, including ‘Outstanding’ personal development for students.

The inspection confirms the school is delivering a high-quality alternative provision where students feel safe, supported and empowered to thrive. The report praises the school’s “good quality of education, behaviour and attitudes and leadership and management,” while drawing special attention to the academy’s exceptional personal development offer.

A Model for Character Development and Student Support

A key highlight of the report is the academy’s pioneering approach to personal development. Inspectors noted that students benefit from “the attention and support they need to succeed,” with the school going “to great lengths to support pupils to develop into responsible, respectful citizens who are well-prepared for the next stage of their education.”

Much of this success is driven by King’s Adventure, a unique programme led by Ted Roberts. This innovative initiative combines outdoor education with character and leadership development, offering students hands-on opportunities to build confidence, teamwork and resilience. Through activities such as hiking, camping and team challenges, students not only engage with nature but also acquire key life skills that support their broader educational journey.

A Fresh Start and a New Day

King’s Leadership Phoenix Academy serves students who often arrive with significant academic and emotional barriers. Inspectors praised the school’s tailored curriculum, which addresses not only students’ academic needs but also their social, emotional and mental health development.

The culture of care and ambition permeates all aspects of school life. The report highlights the school’s restorative approach to behaviour, grounded in the philosophy that “tomorrow is a new day.” This ethos helps students recover from setbacks, learn from mistakes and build the confidence to move forward positively.

The report also noted the transformative impact the academy has on students’ willingness to learn: “Pupils who attend this school have the opportunity to reset their attitudes to learning.” This highlights the academy’s commitment to shifting mindsets and setting students on the path to success.

Strong Leadership, Lasting Change

Daniel Cross, Principal of King’s Leadership Phoenix Academy, expressed his pride in the report’s findings:

“This result reflects the incredible dedication of our staff and the courage and growth of our students. We are proud to be a place where young people are given the chance to reset, rebuild and reach their full potential. Our students have shown us what is possible with the right support and high expectations—and we are just getting started.”

Shane Ierston, CEO of Great Schools Trust, added:

“At King's Phoenix, we see potential where others see problems. We take the most vulnerable students in the city and help them write a new chapter. It’s not about fixing the past, it’s about building something better, through great teaching our students again confidence, self-belief and a desire to succeed.”

A Beacon for Alternative Provision in Liverpool

This strong Ofsted report reaffirms King’s Leadership Phoenix Academy’s role as a leading force in alternative education in Liverpool. With a relentless focus on individual growth, high expectations, and wraparound support, the school is not just a place for learning—it’s a launchpad for success.

For more information about King’s Leadership Phoenix Academy, visit: www.kingsphoenix.com

Read the full Ofsted report here: https://bit.ly/4cNkOVy