Pimlico school’s ranking by Ofsted falls

A top London school’s ranking has fallen after students protested about its uniform and racism allegations, writes Hannah Neary, Local Democracy Reporter.

Pimlico Academy, above, in Lupus Street, Pimlico, has been downgraded from “outstanding” to “good” by Ofsted, reports The Times.

An inspection found the school’s leaders had won back the faith of staff and pupils, but some parents still have concerns.

Hundreds of pupils at the Central London school protested in March over its uniform, changes to the curriculum, alleged racism and the placement of a flag outside the building.

Ofsted had last inspected Pimlico Academy 11 years ago and found it had gone through a turbulent period in the last academic year.

A report by the regulator said: “Leaders and trustees have worked hard to win back hearts and minds with much success.

“However, some parents and carers remain concerned about aspects of the school, including leaders’ work to secure further improvements.

“Pupils mostly behave well in lessons and around the school. “They know the rules and can explain why they exist.

“Pupils said that sometimes bullying and the use of discriminatory language do happen.

“However, leaders take any incidents seriously.”

The school underwent notable changes under its new head teacher, Daniel Smith, who started in September 2020. He resigned in May this year.

More than 1,500 pupils signed a petition against the changes, including rules on hijabs, jilbabs and hairstyles, claiming they were discriminatory.

After a visit in June, Ofsted said there had been a breakdown of communication between the school’s leaders and staff, with many leaving.

Its latest report gave the school a ‘good’ rating overall and ‘outstanding’ for the development of its sixth form