Dear Parents and Carers
I am delighted to share with you the results of our recent International Baccalaureate (IB) evaluation, which took place in February 2026. This rigorous process reviewed both our Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Career-related Programme (CP), and I am incredibly proud to report that the IB has found both programmes to be in “close alignment” with their prestigious global standards.
The evaluation team concluded that Leigh Academy Wilmington “lives its mission and values with clarity and purpose,” fostering a community that is inclusive, ambitious, and supportive. This feedback is a testament to the hard work of our staff, the dedication of our students, and the continued support of our families.
Exceptional Strengths in Teaching and Learning The report highlights several areas where the academy is demonstrating “notable development” beyond standard requirements. Key highlights include:
- Academic Excellence:Our strategic focus on improving the quality of extended writing across all subjects has led to significant improvements in student analysis and communication.
- Student Agency:In the MYP, students were praised for their ability to develop their own interpretations of learning inquiries, while CP students were noted for their ownership and agency in directing their own learning tasks.
- Innovative Resources:The IB commended our use of digital technology, including our Chromebook strategy, and our specialist facilities such as the E-Sports room and food technology labs.
A Nurturing and Inclusive Environment At the heart of the report was the recognition of our “safe, healthy, and nurturing environment”. The evaluators noted that our college structure (Minerva, Apollo, and Jupiter) ensures that every student is “known, valued, and able to succeed”. They specifically highlighted our Inclusion Hub and the way our community welcomes new arrivals as major strengths.
Global Citizenship and Future Confidence We are proud to be recognised as a school that fosters internationally-minded young people. From our annual Cultural Day to our collaborative projects with schools in India, Colombia, and China, our students are developing the skills needed to thrive in an interconnected world.
The report notes that our academy is oversubscribed and benefits from strong staff retention, with many teachers serving our community for over a decade. This stability, combined with the “increasing maturity” of our IB implementation, means that Leigh Academy Wilmington is “well positioned to continue thriving as an IB World School”.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Together, we continue to build a school where every child can achieve their full potential.
Yours faithfully
Michael Gore
Principal
