Leigh UTC Dartford

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 2 June 2026

Pupils achieve highly in both the subjects that they study and in their personal development. This is particularly the case in Years 12 and 13, building on pupils' very positive experiences in key stages 3 and 4. Pupils engage with their learning extremely well and enjoy coming to school because of the high-quality opportunities that they have. Expert teaching means that pupils learn very effectively, which is reflected in the work that they produce, some of which is really excellent. The wide range of activities which nurture their talents helps them to grow as mature young people. Students in the sixth form take a leading role in school life and act as inspirational role models for other pupils, making a significant contribution to the highly positive culture of the school. Pupils are very respectful of each other and the staff that they work with. Pupils develop professional 'habits' in their learning and conduct which prepare them very well for life beyond school. Consequently, pupils' behaviour is of a high standard day to day. They work very well together and are keen to help one another. Pupils have high aspirations for their future lives and careers, which leaders and staff make sure they achieve. All students in the sixth form go on to incredibly ambitious higher education courses, apprenticeships or employment. Their lives are transformed by attending the school. Pupils recognise and greatly appreciate how the school cares for them, including the vigilant way that staff keep them safe. Pupils are fully confident about talking to staff about any issues or concerns that they have, knowing that these will be dealt with very effectively. If pupils are experiencing any key challenges in their lives or their learning, staff address these expertly. Consequently, the majority of pupils come to school regularly and an increasing proportion have very high levels of attendance.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should build on their very successful work to raise pupils' overall attendance even further so that all pupils benefit fully from the excellent education that the school provides.

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