Clare Mount Specialist Sports College

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 19 May 2026

This is a place that fosters a truly remarkable haven of calm and learning. Pupils, and students in the sixth form, flourish socially and academically. A passion for pupils’ success underpins everything the school does. Whatever pupils’ needs, staff work relentlessly to enable them to succeed. Staff inspire pupils to become curious and independent beyond the classroom. Pupils are safe, feel understood and valued. The school puts no ceiling on pupils’ academic or social achievements. This ambition is embodied in the way both staff and pupils live out the school’s motto, striving to be true ‘catalysts for change’. Through a thoughtfully designed curriculum, pupils follow pathways and take qualifications in subjects that are tailored skilfully to their aspirations and ambitions. Pupils, all of whom have special educational needs and/or disabilities, love learning and receive the bespoke support they need to thrive. They achieve extremely highly across a wide range of subjects. The school's work has a lasting impact on pupils. Pupils’ behaviour is exemplary. Highly effective classroom and social time routines mean that pupils know exactly what to expect and when. Bullying is extremely rare. Pupils are confident that staff will help with any concerns. Pupils are expertly supported by staff to become confident in their communication with others. This contributes significantly to pupils’ growing self-esteem and their ability to recognise and embrace their own unique talents. Pupils attend well. Those that need it get help to improve their attendance. The school provides pupils with the tools and firm foundations for their next steps in life. This is also true for students in the sixth form. Right from the start, the vast array of carefully crafted wider experiences offered to pupils focus on developing them as active citizens. Pupils are incredibly well prepared for their future lives. The impact of the school is transformative for many pupils.

What the school should improve

• Leaders and governors should continue to refine and embed their identified priorities for improvement in order to drive a transformational impact for all pupils.

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