The Hemel Hempstead School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 17 March 2026

At the Hemel Hempstead School, pupils are encouraged to be the best versions of themselves. The school is inclusive and nurturing. Pupils feel known, supported and included. Pupils enjoy lessons and are proud of the work that they produce. They describe a culture of ‘We’re in this together.' The personal development programme contributes notably to pupils' experiences at the school. These experiences often extend beyond the classroom. Pupils actively participate in the ‘Hemel Hempstead experience’. Here, they are encouraged to ‘evolve, aspire and belong’ and participate in leadership- and community-focused projects. Pupils are well prepared for the future. Careers education is wide ranging, structured and accessible, with enduring employer links and extensive careers guidance. Pupils enjoy their learning. Teachers structure lessons well, establish positive relationships with pupils and have high expectations. In practical and creative subjects, pupils take pride in their work and articulate their learning clearly. The curriculum is ambitious, well sequenced and usually delivered effectively. Many pupils benefit from checks on their learning and structured activities that help them to understand increasingly complex information. Behaviour across the school is calm and respectful. Approaches built on repairing relationships when pupils fall out, and consistent routines, contribute to the positive behaviour throughout the school. Pupils say that bullying is rare and that staff deal with it. Pupils know how to access support and trust adults to act in pupils' interests where necessary. They feel safe in all parts of the school. Older students show maturity, independence and strong engagement with learning. Pupils' attendance is positive and improving. Leaders ensure that the education pupils receive prepares them both academically and more widely for adult life. Pupils make meaningful connections between their learning and real life. They feel that learning is relevant, purposeful and empowering, preparing them well for life in modern Britain.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should continue to ensure that gaps in pupils' foundational knowledge, including early reading and writing, are swiftly identified and addressed.
• Leaders should ensure that teachers across subjects consistently adapt their teaching and provide effective feedback to pupils, in response to any weaknesses or misunderstandings that they identify in pupils' learning.

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