Walsall Academy in Bloxwich has received a new inspection report from Ofsted following a visit to the school on 17 March 2026. The findings, published on 19 May 2026, show significant progress for the school compared to its previous inspection in November 2022, which resulted in a rating of requires improvement.
The latest evaluation was conducted using a new system that replaces single-word overall judgements with a more detailed report card. Under this framework, the academy achieved a strong standard rating in four key areas: safeguarding, inclusion, leadership and governance, and personal development and wellbeing. Additionally, the school received an expected standard rating in achievement, attendance and behaviour, curriculum and teaching, and post 16 provision.
Simon Topper, who has served as headteacher since June 2023, led the school during this inspection. The academy is part of the Thomas Telford Multi Academy Trust, which is overseen by executive adviser Fiona Seddon and a board of trustees chaired by John Bowater. The school currently serves 1,418 pupils, which is above its capacity of 1,350, with 40.86% of students eligible for free school meals.
The inspection team, led by His Majesty’s Inspector Andrew Madden, noted the school’s performance across the evaluated categories. Families looking into secondary school options in the area can view the full report on the Ofsted website to learn more about the findings.
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