Change of fortunes for Dodworth St John's

Dodworth St John the Baptist C of E Primary Academy is celebrating an Ofsted report that recognises clear improvements and a school where children feel happy, safe and that they belong.

Following the inspection on 9 and 10 September 2026, the Barnsley school, which joined Enhance Academy Trust in September 2025, met the Expected standard in all seven graded areas.

The report states: “Pupils are happy and safe and feel a sense of belonging in Dodworth St John the Baptist C of E Primary Academy.”

Inspectors found that pupils achieve well across the curriculum and are well prepared for their next stage of education. They recognised improving phonics and multiplication tables check results, alongside a much-improved picture of attainment and pupils’ work.

The report highlights early, effective support for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, who learn alongside their classmates and take a full part in school life. It also recognises high-quality, practical support for families.

Opportunities beyond the classroom also feature, including football, cooking and a brass band. Inspectors recognised the school’s community links and the way class names celebrating Dodworth’s mining heritage help children take pride in their local roots.

Headteacher, Oliver Grant-Roberts, said: “We are proud that inspectors recognised both the progress children are making and the care they experience every day. Every child deserves to feel that they belong and to have adults who believe in what they can achieve. “This report reflects the commitment of our whole staff team, supported by our governors and Enhance Academy Trust. I am also grateful to our families and local community for their trust and encouragement.

Mark Randall, CEO of Enhance Academy Trust: “The whole school team deserve credit for the improvements recognised in this report. Their work with colleagues across the Trust is helping children to achieve well in a caring, inclusive school. We will continue to support leaders as they build on this progress, with high expectations for every child and a clear focus on lasting improvement.”