Blacklow Brow School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 20 January 2026

Pupils at Blacklow Brow achieve very well and approach learning with enthusiasm. They are attentive, motivated and eager to succeed. Staff know pupils well and provide high-quality teaching that helps them build knowledge securely and confidently from their starting points. Pupils, including disadvantaged pupils, those with special educational needs and/or disabilities and those known or previously known to children’s social care, make progress well through the curriculum. They are well prepared for secondary school. Pupils' barriers to learning and wellbeing are addressed promptly. Staff identify needs early and work closely with parents and carers to provide tailored support. This ensures pupils attend regularly, engage fully in lessons and demonstrate consistently positive behaviour. Pupils are fully included in all aspects of school life and develop a secure sense of belonging. Positive relationships are a cornerstone of school life. Pupils feel safe, cared for and supported each day. This starts with a purposeful welcome from staff. Pupils are consistently kind and respectful to one another. Bullying is rare, and any unkind behaviour is dealt with swiftly and effectively. Pupils trust adults and confidently seek help when needed. Beyond academic learning, pupils leave the school confident, articulate and ready to thrive in all areas of life. Leadership opportunities are well established, with pupils acting as subject leaders, playleaders and reading ambassadors. Older pupils take pride in responsibility, acting as positive role models. They contribute meaningfully to the community. Wider experiences enrich pupils' learning. Residential visits build independence and friendships. Clubs, including food technology, drawing, languages and football, are popular. Pupils are inspired by the enrichment opportunities, including a planned visit to Spain. These experiences strengthen pupils' resilience, spark ambition and ensure that pupils flourish socially, morally and academically.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should continue to improve disadvantaged pupils' attainment in writing so that the gap between them and their non-disadvantaged peers nationally closes further over time.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)