Thamesmead School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 23 June 2026

Pupils are proud to be part of Thamesmead School. They appreciate the opportunities and education they receive. Pupils feel that they belong. They build close working relationships with teachers and each other. Pupils value the excellent pastoral support they receive. They are confident there will always be someone to help them. This makes them feel safe. Pupils behave well. They are polite and respectful. Pupils show positive attitudes to their learning in lessons. Pupils know that bullying is unacceptable. If it does happen, pupils are confident that leaders will deal with it. Pupils understand the importance of respecting people’s differences. They relish the opportunity to learn about other cultures. Pupil attendance has improved over time and is in line with national averages. Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) and those who are disadvantaged get excellent support. Pupils feel listened to by staff and recognise they get the support they need to thrive. Pupils experience a wide curriculum that is generally well taught. The adaptations for pupils with barriers to their learning are highly effective at ensuring that these pupils can access the ambitious curriculum. Pupils, including those with SEND and those who are disadvantaged, typically achieve above national averages. Pupils also produce work in lessons that is of a high quality. Pupils learn about the wider world and experience a range of opportunities. They know how to keep themselves safe, including in the water. Pupils benefit from trips to museums, fieldwork and theatre shows. Pupils know they will be supported to attend these trips. Pupils engage in a variety of clubs, from traditional sports and performing arts to Lego and board games. Pupil leadership plays an important role in leaders' decision-making. Pupils’ opinions matter. They can give examples regarding uniform, toilets and changing rooms where they have influenced leaders.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should continue to embed strategies to ensure that attendance for all groups is above national averages.
• Leaders should embed high-quality teaching in a small number of subjects by ensuring that teachers identify gaps in pupils' learning and address them in lessons.

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