The King's School, Grantham

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 13 December 2022

Pupils are very proud to attend this school. They understand and rise to the high expectations that teachers and leaders have. Pupils thrive at this school. One pupil commented: 'The opportunities we get at King's, we would not get anywhere else.' Leaders have placed a great deal of emphasis on ensuring that pupils achieve high levels of academic success. There is also an equal focus on developing pupils as resilient, confident and well-rounded individuals. Pupils and students in the sixth form are polite and respectful. The ethos of the school is inclusive. All pupils know that any form of discrimination, derogatory language or bullying is not acceptable. They say this is rare and teachers would deal with it instantly and effectively if it were to occur. Students in the sixth form are very well prepared for the next stage of their education or employment. Many of them are successful in gaining places at the most sought-after universities and/or courses. The overwhelming majority of parents or carers would recommend this school. One parent summed up the views of many when they said: 'The wealth of opportunity this school offers children is fantastic. There is something for everyone.'

What the school should improve

• On occasions, teachers do not check that all pupils have secured the depth of understanding that is set out in curriculum plans. Some pupils have gaps in their knowledge. Leaders should ensure that teachers systematically check that all pupils have secured the understanding.
• The strategy to identify and support pupils with SEND is not as precise as it could be. Teachers do not always have the information they need to provide the most effective strategies to support pupils with SEND. Leaders should ensure that additional needs are identified precisely and that teachers use this information to support pupils with SEND more effectively.
• The procedures and systems to challenge and support pupils who are persistently absent are not robust enough. On occasions, actions taken to improve attendance are not swift enough. Leaders should ensure that they take swift and effective action when any pupil is at risk of becoming persistently absent.

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