Brixham College

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 31 March 2026

Pupils speak knowledgeably on some topics, using relevant technical and subject vocabulary to explain themselves. From Year 7, reading is supported well. These strengths, however, have not resulted in pupils achieving well in national tests, including in the sixth form. This is because expectations have been too low over time. There has not been a sustained effort to improve pupils’ writing. The support for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) remains inconsistent. It has been difficult for pupils to succeed due to poor rates of attendance and disruptive behaviour. The school is undergoing a period of change as leaders work to raise standards. Systems are being tightened up. Pupils are expected to arrive on time and equipped for learning. Support is provided, for example, the ‘Right Start’ kiosk issues uniform and stationery. The school’s breakfast club helps to set disadvantaged pupils up for the day. Pupils recognise that a renewed focus on behaviour has reduced disruptive incidents. Pupils and parents raise concerns about bullying and the amount of time that pupils spend in the school’s ‘study hub’ when teachers are absent. The school understands these concerns and has responded effectively. The procedure for responding to bullying reports has been strengthened. The student parliament, and pupil groups of anti-bullying and mental health ambassadors are playing a role in establishing a more positive environment. The quality of work and the time that pupils spend in the ‘study hub’ is closely monitored. Every pupil gets the benefit of the school’s ‘values’ curriculum. This teaches them how to lead safe, healthy and productive lives. Pupils with SEND supported by staff in the ‘The Harbour’, have ‘values’ lessons adapted to meet their needs. The extra-curricular offer is prioritised as an important investment in pupils’ development. Through targeted funding and adaptations, the school aims to involve disadvantaged pupils and those with SEND fully.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that pupils consistently benefit from the adaptations to the curriculum and teaching that they need, so that they each have every opportunity to achieve highly.
• Leaders should ensure that weaknesses in pupils’ writing are identified early and addressed effectively.
• Leaders should check carefully that their attendance strategy is working to secure sustained improvements in pupils’ overall attendance and further reduce persistent absence.
• Leaders and governors should develop regular and constructive communication with families, to build trust and confidence as improvements are embedded across the school.
• Leaders should continue to develop their strategic oversight of the school’s improvement priorities, ensuring that improvements are implemented effectively and bring about a sustained impact over time.

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