Tackling Persistent Disadvantage in Lambeth – where high expectations change futures

In Lambeth, a borough rich in diversity and energy, too many young people still face the impact of Persistent Disadvantage – meaning they have been eligible for free school meals for 80% or more of their time at school. These barriers can limit outcomes, but schools like Oasis Academy South Bank are showing what's possible when ambition, inclusion and support come together.

Oasis Academy South Bank is located in the London Borough of Lambeth, which has a highly diverse population, with 63% of residents describing their ethnicity as other than White British.

Poverty and high cost of living are significant issues in the area, with child poverty over double the national average and monthly rents far above what is typical for England.

Perhaps as a result, the borough experiences a high level of population turnover, with significant numbers of people moving in or out each year.

Proving what's possible

The diversity of Lambeth is reflected at Oasis Academy South Bank, with over half of pupils speaking a first language other than English. However, its poverty is equally reflected, with high proportions of pupils who are persistently disadvantaged or eligible for free school meals.

Persistently disadvantaged students at Oasis Academy South Bank outperform national averages in GCSE English and maths. For context, the Lambeth average for this group is 3.8 and the national average is 3.3.

High expectations

Anna, the Headteacher at Oasis Academy South Bank, explains how the school helps set pupils up for success, regardless of their circumstances:

"At Oasis Academy South Bank, we believe in every student's unique potential, no matter their starting point, background or challenge.

We work relentlessly to remove barriers and create the conditions for every young person to thrive.

We set the bar high, because our pupils deserve the very best, and we are incredibly proud to see them consistently rise to, and exceed, these expectations."

The school's latest Ofsted inspection, in May 2024, received 'Outstanding' in all 11–16 categories, and it recently won the prestigious 'Secondary School of the Year' Award.

The Ofsted report highlights the school's high aspirations for all its pupils, including those with SEND and the most disadvantaged pupils:

"Pupils flourish here. They are very proud to be part of this strong and caring school community. The school has high expectations for all pupils to succeed and grow into knowledgeable and confident individuals."

Together, staff work extremely hard to ensure that all pupils have the opportunity to fulfil their potential. In doing so, pupils are supported to be the best they can be.

Leaders set high academic standards and typically pupils achieve extremely well. This includes those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), and those who are disadvantaged. The curriculum also extends far beyond the academic. Leaders encourage pupils to thrive in their personal development as well.

Opportunities beyond the classroom

The report also describes the school's strong emphasis on enrichment activities beyond the classroom, as well as their commitment to teacher development. Oasis Community Learning, the school's multi-academy trust, has a proven track record of enhancing the performance of its schools, in part through strong investment in teacher training.

"Pupils are provided with a wide range of opportunities to enrich their learning experiences beyond the classroom."

There is a plentiful range of extra-curricular clubs and activities to choose here.

"This greatly enriches pupils' personal development and experience of school life. There are 45 educational outings arranged each year, many for whole year groups, and one third of the pupils have instrumental music lessons. The whole of Year 9 also takes part in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme."

Staff, including those new to teaching, receive ongoing high-quality training.

"They value the academy's three pillars of professional development and work as a close-knit reflective team. These opportunities make a very strong contribution to staff's expertise and career progression. Staff feel valued and supported by leaders in managing their workload."