Frederick Gent School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 18 November 2025

This is a ‘small school with a big heart’. Leaders have ensured that there is a strong school community, which pupils and staff say feels like a family. Pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) and those who are disadvantaged, are known extremely well. Effective action is taken to remove any barriers to high attendance and to ensure that pupils are in school and are safe. Pupils are proud of their school. They feel well cared for and happy. Pupils learn in a safe and calm learning environment. There are positive relationships between staff and pupils. A noticeable feature of pupils' conduct is their self-discipline, and friendliness towards those around them. High levels of respect are in evidence throughout the school. Bullying is never tolerated by leaders and staff and is skilfully dealt with. There is variability in the quality of teaching. Leaders have taken effective action to address this, but more work is needed. Achievement is improving, but some pupils achieve better in some subjects than in others. Some pupils have gaps in their skills and knowledge. Some do not write and spell with the accuracy needed. This hinders their achievement. The needs of disadvantaged pupils and pupils with SEND are swiftly identified. Staff are well informed about these pupils. Support is well considered. Published information indicates that disadvantaged pupils achieved well at the end of key stage 4. Pupils are very positive about how the school's personal, social and health education curriculum impacts on them. They are knowledgeable about keeping safe and are keen and well informed about fundamental British values. Pupils are well prepared to be a valuable member of society. The pupil 'reading leaders' for example, act as extremely positive role models for younger pupils and are a credit to the school.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that teaching focuses on identifying and resolving quickly any misconceptions, explaining important knowledge and carefully checking pupils’ understanding consistently well so that pupils achieve well in every subject. • Leaders should make certain that pupils secure the necessary accuracy and fluency in handwriting and spelling, in readiness for their next learning steps.

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