Durham Trinity School & Sports College

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 18 March 2025

The school's values of 'nurture, believe, thrive and succeed' are high priority. They are the foundations for the way that pupils at this school are prepared for life. Pupils are valued as individuals. The needs of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are identified clearly by the school and met well. Pupils thrive in this welcoming and inclusive school. Relationships between pupils and staff are positive, warm and nurturing. Pupils' behaviour is excellent. Highly skilled staff support pupils to manage their behaviour very well. There is a strong ethos of respect for others. Pupils develop ways to manage their emotions and to regulate and calm their behaviour. They feel safe and are well cared for. Those with complex needs receive appropriate support and personal care, which helps them to be safe, communicate their wishes and develop independence. There are high expectations for all pupils. Leaders design the curriculum to help pupils to achieve their best. Staff devise learning and support so that pupils can achieve well, including the outcomes stated in their education, health and care (EHC) plans. Pupils develop the skills they need for life beyond school. They enjoy taking part in local community activities and work experience. They relish their outdoor education and enjoy many sporting opportunities.

What the school should improve

• Some pupils who are at the early stages of learning to write are not taught the skills they need to form neat, legible handwriting. This means that some pupils may not develop effective handwriting skills. The school should ensure that all staff understand how to support the development of pupils' handwriting skills.

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