Harris Science Academy East London

From Failing School to National Leader: Harris Science Academy East London Rated Outstanding by Ofsted

Open Day: Friday 4th July | Arrival from 9.00am | Principal’s Talk at 9.30am

Harris Science Academy East London (HSAEL) has been rated Outstanding in every category by Ofsted - a remarkable achievement that marks the full transformation of a school that, just three years ago, was placed in Special Measures.

The Academy opened in 2021, taking over the site of a long-struggling school in Newham. Under the leadership of Principal Dan MacPherson, it has rapidly become one of the capital’s most improved secondary schools — and is now recognised as one of its very best.

In their new report published in June, inspectors praised the Academy’s “exceptional” education, exemplary student behaviour, and strong moral culture. The school, they said, “has big ambitions” and is “determined to ensure its pupils receive the best education.”
Families considering their secondary options are warmly invited to see the school for themselves at its Open Day on Friday 4th July, with student-led tours from 9.15am and a Principal’s address at 9.30am.

Principal Dan MacPherson said:
"To have been judged Outstanding in every category is an incredible moment for our community. We set out three years ago to show that a school in this area could offer not only strong academic results, but a genuinely transformative education. This judgement is validation of that work — and we’re only just getting started."

A top-performing school - in just three years
In a short time, HSAEL has become one of the most successful schools in London. It is in the top 20% nationally for GCSE attainment, and top 12.5% for outcomes for disadvantaged students. Attendance is significantly above average, and the school is the fourth most improved in London, and 24th most improved in England.

Ofsted commended not only the outcomes, but the school’s inclusive and purposeful culture:
“Pupils are proud of their school... They are kind and respectful to each other and to staff. Behaviour in lessons and around the school is exemplary.”

HSAEL’s ethos blends academic ambition with character development. Every week begins with a whole-school “Monday Morning Mantra” in which students affirm: “We are leaders. We are going to make a difference. We are going to change the world.”

Character education continues throughout the week — with public speaking, debate, cultural visits, and reading all built into the timetable. Twelve times a year, the curriculum is paused entirely for days focused on developing confidence, leadership and real-world knowledge.
An academic curriculum that opens doors
At the heart of the school’s success is a rigorous academic curriculum - including subjects like Latin - designed to match the most selective grammar and independent schools. The curriculum is knowledge-rich, and taught with precision, ambition and depth.

Ofsted praised the curriculum as “very well structured and ambitious for all pupils,” including those with special educational needs. Inspectors noted that SEND students “learn the curriculum well” and benefit from personalised support.

But alongside its academic strength, HSAEL is known for its culture of care. It is a small school, where every student is known and supported. For families moving from the familiarity of primary school, this personal feel is a major strength.

“What you get at HSAEL is big ambition with small-school warmth,” says Mr MacPherson. “We believe in traditional expectations, strong discipline and high academic standards — but equally in joy, inclusion, and individual attention.”

Open Day: Come and see for yourself
HSAEL will be welcoming prospective families at its Open Day on Friday 4th July. It’s a timely opportunity to tour the school, meet students and staff, and hear directly from the Principal about the Academy’s vision and values.
• Arrival from 9.00am
• Student-led tours from 9.15am
• Principal’s Talk at 9.30am

Families will have the opportunity to ask questions, see the classrooms in action, and experience the Academy’s unique culture first-hand.

As the school looks to the future, its ambitions remain high. Mr MacPherson is clear:
"We want to be not just one of the best schools in Newham, but one of the best in the country. We believe our students are capable of greatness — and everything we do is about helping them realise that."

For more information or to register for the Open Day, visit: www.harrisscienceeastlondon.org.uk

News is spreading fast about of our recent "OUTSTANDING" Ofsted report, following and incredible transformation at the Academy over the last couple of years.

Brilliant Ofsted report praises transformation at Harris Science Academy East London Students and staff at Harris Science Academy East London are celebrating after the school received a fantastic Ofsted report, the first report since the academy joined the Harris Federation in 2022.