Highworth Warneford School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 23 June 2026

Pupils feel proud to be part of the community at Highworth Warneford School. Warm, positive relationships between staff and pupils contribute to pupils feeling valued and included. Pupils enjoy their learning and look forward to the many enrichment opportunities available to them. During social times, pupils enjoy using the sports and music facilities and socialising with others. There is a calm and harmonious atmosphere. Pupils are respectful of one another and bullying is rare. The consistent format of lessons means that pupils know what is expected of them. In lessons, pupils typically focus and work hard. There is minimal disruption to learning. The feedback that pupils receive from teachers helps them to improve their work. Pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities, appreciate the support that they receive to learn. Pupils generally achieve well and are ready for their next steps upon leaving the school. Leaders strive to ensure that there are enrichment opportunities that everyone can enjoy. Activities include boardgames, coding, sports, chess, music and the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme. Pupils broaden their experiences through a range of trips, including opportunities for international travel. Pupils develop their leadership skills through the various roles available to them. These roles make a tangible difference to the wider school, helping pupils to see the importance of sharing their views. Through its values, the school helps pupils to develop positive character attributes. For instance, pupils know how acting with integrity contributes to a congenial and respectful environment at school.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should further embed the support they provide for pupils who face additional barriers so that they consistently enhance their opportunities and experiences.
• Leaders should further develop their analysis of all aspects of the school’s provision so that leaders, at all levels, can continue to drive improvement across all aspects of the school's work.
• Leaders should ensure that highly effective teaching is embedded throughout the curriculum so that pupils make the best possible progress from their starting points and achieve consistently well.

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