Ofsted confirms Oxted School rated as Good

Oxted School, part of The Howard Partnership Trust (THPT), is celebrating today after Ofsted has rated the school “Good” in all areas, recognising its continued success.

The glowing report, published this week after the February two-day inspection, noted that the school’s strong leadership has created ‘a purposeful and inclusive environment’ where the dedicated staff have very high aspirations for all their pupils, both academically and in regard to their personal development.

Inspectors highlighted the school’s positive culture, that presents ‘a calm and orderly environment’ where students feel safe, supported and inspired to learn. The report commented on the excellent behaviour and attitude of all pupils and particularly mentioned the effective leadership qualities demonstrated by Sixth Form students, who were seen as excellent role models for younger pupils.

The breadth of curriculum reflects the collaborative approach taken across the Trust and the hard work teachers have put to ensure the teaching brings out the best in all pupils, at every opportunity. The Ofsted team were clearly impressed by the wide range of activities and opportunities on offer beyond the classroom, including sport, arts, drama, music, regular residential trips and The Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, to support and stimulate pupils physical and mental health as a priority. Inclusion for all was a theme also reflected on within the report, highlighting how disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs or disabilities do just as well as their peers because of the extra support provided. Particular reference was made to the provision for visually impaired pupils as being exceptional.

Russell Bond, Partnership Principal, said, “We are delighted that Ofsted have recognised all the excellent work at Oxted, both in and out of the classroom. This report confirms that our breadth of curriculum helps pupils discover that school is a place for all to learn and thrive, to develop passions and personal responsibility and ultimately prepare them for adult life. There are so many comments with which we are particularly delighted, but to hear an Ofsted inspector say that Oxted School is ambitious yet caring makes us all very proud.”

Rhona Barnfield, Chief Executive Officer of The Howard Partnership Trust said, “We are delighted that Ofsted have confirmed the high quality, all-round education provided by Oxted School. This judgement confirms a bright future for the school within The Howard Partnership Trust as well as the community it serves.”