Blatchington Mill School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 9 June 2026

Pupils are very proud to be part of Team Blatch. Aspirations are high for all, both from dedicated staff and pupils themselves. Most pupils achieve well over time, including those who are disadvantaged. The school goes to great lengths to create an inclusive education that removes pupils' potential barriers to success. The curriculum is generally taught very well. Many pupils gain the knowledge they need for success in national examinations. Consequently, pupils are very well prepared for their next steps in education, employment and training. Pupils’ attendance has been low over time. This means some pupils are not benefitting from the enriching education that the school provides. The school works conscientiously with pupils and their families to support regular attendance. This means that an increasing number of pupils are attending on a more regular basis. Most pupils typically meet the school’s high expectations for behaviour. This contributes to a warm and friendly school where bullying is very rare. Where needed, pupils receive effective targeted help to manage their behaviour and engage positively with learning. Pupils have trusted adults in school who can meet their needs. This helps pupils to feel safe and fosters a sense of belonging. Pupils make an active contribution to the school community, for example designing outdoor seating areas for them to enjoy in social times. Pupils feel listened to and that their voice is important. Consequently, pupils are articulate and confident when speaking to adults and each other. Pupils benefit from a wide range of opportunities that extend their learning. Clubs such as Blatch Green Team and the Samba band help pupils develop new interests and talents. Staff carefully monitor participation to ensure all pupils, particularly the most disadvantaged, benefit from all that school has to offer.

What the school should improve

• Leaders must continue to strengthen and embed a coordinated attendance strategy so that pupil attendance continues to improve and persistent absence reduces, particularly for disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs and/or disabilities, ensuring these pupils attend school regularly and engage with education well.
• Leaders should ensure that staff carry out precise, routine checks on pupils’ learning so that teachers identify gaps in pupils’ knowledge and misconceptions can be addressed quickly.
• The school should ensure that the careers programme provides pupils with suitable experiences and the detailed knowledge that they need to make ambitious and informed decisions about future education, employment and training options.

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