The Gatwick School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 1 May 2024

Pupils feel part of 'one big family' in this ambitious and unique all-through school. They recognise the many recent positive changes that have been made. A refreshed culture of aspiration is now building pupils' confidence and helping them to flourish in their learning. Pupils strive to achieve their best because staff have high expectations of what pupils will achieve. Pupils learn well because teachers explain things clearly. A sense of calm and order throughout the school ensures that pupils feel safe and happy to come to school regularly. The school celebrates diversity. Many pupils speak English as an additional language, with some joining the school throughout the school year from countries from all over the world. These pupils initially join the 'United Nations' tutor group, where they quickly make new friends. Staff then identify the language support pupils need to learn. Everyone receives a warm welcome. Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) receive effective help to learn well. Staff communicate effectively about the strategies required to help pupils achieve their best. Pupils with SEND and those who need help to manage their social, emotional and mental health needs are well supported in 'The Nest' and 'The Warren'. Here pupils learn how to recognise and manage their emotions so that they can communicate confidently.

What the school should improve

• The school's ambitious plans for pupils to achieve exceptional outcomes and benefit fully from the school's provision are not fully realised. There is still work to do to ensure that all staff in all subjects consistently and expertly close gaps in pupils' learning. The school must continue to implement its approach to school improvement to ensure pupils achieve all that they can.

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