Northallerton School & Sixth Form College

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 24 March 2026

Most pupils enjoy coming to school. They reflect that many aspects about the school have improved considerably. Pupils behave and conduct themselves more positively. Recent changes to the curriculum mean that pupils learn a well-planned and coherent curriculum. The improved routines in lessons help pupils to learn the content leaders want them to know. Pupils feel safe at school. They have trusted adults to share their worries with if needed. Pupils with additional barriers to learning or wellbeing are generally well supported by the school. Historically pupils have not achieved well in end of key stage 4 exams and assessments. Published outcomes show that pupils' achievement is lower than their peers nationally. Students achieve much better outcomes in the sixth form. At the end of key stage 5, students' achievement is in line with national averages for both academic and vocational qualifications. Pupils’ attendance to school is improving. The number of pupils who are persistently absent is decreasing. However, pupils attend school less often than their peers nationally. Pupils behave well across the school. Lessons are typically free from disruption. Pupils build positive relationships with each other and with staff in the school. Bullying is rare. When it happens, it is effectively dealt with by school leaders. Pupils and students in the sixth form access a wide range of extra-curricular and enrichment opportunities. Pupils can take part in school musical theatre performances. They go on trips abroad to France, Italy, Austria and Spain. The student leaders have a positive impact on the school and the local community. They play an active role in important decisions the school takes, such as moving to split lunchtimes. These activities help prepare pupils and students for life in modern Britain.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that actions to raise pupils' achievement are robustly embedded, so that pupils are well-prepared and this is reflected in their attainment and progress in national tests at the end of key stage 4.
• Leaders should ensure that the teaching of the revised curriculum is of a consistently high quality across subjects and year groups, so that pupils make strong progress as they move through the school.
• Leaders should make sure their work to improve the attendance of groups and individuals is carefully sustained, so that pupil attendance continues to positively increase.

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