Ratton School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 19 May 2026

Pupils know the Ratton 'virtues' well. These underpin pupils' experiences in school, where they demonstrate them on a daily basis. Pupils have positive attitudes to their learning. This is built on the respectful relationships that they enjoy with each other and staff. Pupils are confident that they will receive the support they need from adults. They know that if bullying happens, leaders tackle it swiftly. This makes pupils feel safe. Pupils appreciate the support that they receive from staff. They enjoy learning and try hard in lessons. Pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities and those who are disadvantaged, achieve well and attend school regularly. Leaders identify any barriers to pupils' learning and provide appropriate support. In general, teaching is effective at ensuring that pupils are successful. Pupils engage in an extensive careers programme. They receive practical advice on their next steps. This means that pupils are well prepared for leaving school. Pupils enjoy the leadership opportunities that they have. They contribute to school life through the student council and participation in the house system. Pupils feel that such roles enable them to make a positive difference to their school and wider community. They are enthusiastic in helping each other. For example, some pupils become transition ambassadors, helping new pupils settle into life at secondary school. Older students help pupils in the lower school to learn how to revise. Sports leaders help at local primary schools. Pupils benefit from a wide range of clubs and sporting activities. They enjoy and value opportunities to participate in the performing arts. Pupils increase their confidence through performing in a wide range of settings. This includes taking part in an annual show at a local theatre, playing in an orchestra and singing in 'Minor Details', the school’s a cappella choir.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that assessment practices are embedded across the curriculum so that gaps in pupils' knowledge are addressed even more quickly.
• Leaders should ensure that teaching strategies are adapted and implemented consistently well across the school, so that all pupils, including disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs and/or disabilities, achieve all that they are capable of.

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