Letter shows high standards at Atlantic Academy, Portland

The start of this academic year at Atlantic Academy Portland Secondary started with a ‘Thank you’ note for Principal Lesley Bishop and her team.

Sent from a parent who has watched her young son flourish at the academy, it reads: ‘Thank you! My son has left Year 11 at Atlantic Academy as a happy, grounded, and confident young man looking forward to his future. I cannot thank the dedicated, caring, and resilient staff enough for supporting him and his year group. My son has flourished, and we were blown away by his results: a testament to how amazing everyone at Atlantic Academy has been in very challenging times.’’

For Mrs Bishop, Principal of school’s secondary, it is testament to the unwavering commitment by staff to ensure high standards for academic achievement and the wellbeing of pupils. It is also a reflection of the ethos of the school: To combine academic prowess with character, confidence & commitment.

A recent internal inspection and monitoring of the school by Dr Jeffery Quaye, National Director of Standards for Aspirations Academies Trust which runs Atlantic, classed the school as ‘’Good with outstanding features.’’

Places are now available at Atlantic Academy for Year 7, September 2022 start. Prospective students and their parents are also welcome to participate on tours of the school to see lessons in action and the facilities and resources on offer.

To register your interest, please email: apply@atlantic-aspirations.org or visit the school’s website www.atlantic-aspirations.org

 The strong leadership provided by joint Principals Melissa Heppell (who runs Atlantic Primary) and Mrs Bishop is at the heart of Atlantic Academy’s transformation into one of Dorset’s top schools.

Following his visit, Dr Quaye, who is a qualified inspector for primary and secondary schools, reported: "Atlantic Academy is an excellent school with strong links in the local community.

"Leaders prioritise academic achievement and pupils’ wellbeing through their unwavering commitment to high standards.’’

The outdoor space at Maritime House is just as impressive as that indoors. Surrounded by breathtaking sea views, there are also four purpose-built playground areas and a large play field that is big enough to accommodate two full size football pitches.

Confidence in the quality of the education and enrichment delivered runs throughout the school, so much so that 25% of teaching staff send their children to Atlantic. 

Mrs Bishop said: ‘Our goal is to ensure the young people who walk through our corridors receive the very best education that we can offer them.  ‘’I believe a secondary school should be a place where students are equipped with the knowledge to build their confidence, have access to outstanding teaching which enables students to feel safe to learn and be challenged on a daily basis.

"Atlantic students develop the confidence to become young independent adults when they leave us and are more prepared to engage and commit to whatever opportunities come their way as well as being proud to be part of the Atlantic community.’’

The school’s ethos:

Character: We are proud of our school. We care and respect each other. We define ourselves and are not afraid of opportunity.

Confidence: We feel valued. We feel safe to learn and try something new. We believe in ourselves.

Commitment: We work hard and are resilient. We have disruption free learning. We have an engaged curriculum.