Two Mansfield schools were said to be improving by inspectors following their switch to new sponsor Diverse Academies Learning Partnership Heritage.

Ofsted monitoring visits to Wainwright primary and Queen Elizabeth’s academies revealed there were improvements, particularly in leadership, teaching and behaviour, after one term under the new regime.

Wainwright was said to be requiring improvement at its last main inspection before the change of sponsor, while Queen Elizabeth’s is in special measures.

Findings at Wainwright concluded that work to support disadvantaged children is good and raising expectations of pupils and staff has improved dramatically, resulting in an improvement in pupils’ attendance and classroom engagement. The report also highlighted the positive contribution of the Diverse Academies and the local academy board in supporting and driving academy objectives.

At Queen Elizabeth’s Academy inspectors referred to a strong improvement in teaching standards and monitoring of individual students’ progress, and new systems introduced to improve student behaviour and safeguarding are clear and coherent. The new academy leadership structure and approach to curriculum was also commended, with a positive reaction to planning for academy improvements.

Neil Holmes, executive principal at Queen Elizabeth’s Academy, said: “We are very encouraged by the report and are pleased that the hard work of staff, our academy board and the Diverse Academies team is having a positive effect.

“The change in just one term under new sponsors has reaped benefits for our students and staff, and we will work hard and continue to keep improving. We understand that there are still challenges, but we are responding positively to the Ofsted feedback and look forward to our next monitoring visit where we will demonstrate further improvements.”

Louise Davidson, executive principal at Wainwright Primary, added: “There are huge positives to take from the report, and the staff at Wainwright have worked exceptionally hard to embrace the positive changes we have made this term.

“The results we are seeing from our pupils, and feedback from parents too, is further evidence that we are making a difference and will continue to strive to give the best educational experience possible for the benefit of all children.”