De Lisle College Loughborough Leicestershire

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 6 May 2026

Pupils experience a calm and caring school, where they feel valued and well supported. The school's mission to be 'rooted and grounded in love’ shapes the school environment. There are very high expectations of behaviour and attendance. As a result, pupils behave incredibly well and regularly attend school. Pupils benefit from a high-quality curriculum that builds their knowledge over time. Pupils are attentive in lessons. They can get on with their learning without disruption. Those who face barriers to their learning know that staff will help them overcome these. This is especially the case when pupils require additional wellbeing support. Pupils, including those in the sixth form, demonstrate positive attitudes to learning. Many pupils produce good-quality work. At key stage 4, many pupils achieve above the national average. Sixth-form students gain the qualifications they need to move on to higher-level studies, employment or training. While students achieve well overall, attainment at A level is not consistently above the national average. Leaders’ improvement actions focus sharply on continuing to raise the achievement of disadvantaged pupils and overall post-16 outcomes. Pastoral care is highly effective. Pupils demonstrate positive relationships with each other. They understand the importance of kindness and respect. As a result, bullying is rare. Pupils have confidence that staff will address issues if they arise. This means that pupils feel that school is a safe space. The school's values are closely aligned with preparing pupils well for life in modern Britain. Leaders have ensured that all pupils can access a wide range of opportunities that support their development beyond the curriculum. This includes opportunities that are provided during the school day. Therefore, many pupils take part in additional activities. The careers programme ensures that pupils are well prepared for their next steps.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that the checks used to identify and address gaps in pupils' learning are used consistently across the curriculum so that all pupils, including disadvantaged pupils, achieve well.
• Leaders should ensure that teaching strategies are skilfully adapted so that any barriers to achievement are swiftly and effectively addressed.

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