Thornden School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 9 June 2026

Pupils achieve exceptionally well in national examinations such as GCSEs and in their day-to-day learning. They have very positive attitudes to their education and are highly ambitious. Pupils know that their teachers want them to do as well as possible, and they delight in improving and explaining their learning and ideas. Lessons are calm, purposeful and inspiring. Pupils value the feedback that they receive because it is personalised and helps them to improve quickly. Pupils with additional barriers to learning, such as those with special educational needs and/or disabilities, or those who are disadvantaged, are very well known by teachers, who have a detailed understanding of how to adapt teaching and provide individualised support. As a result, these pupils also achieve exceptionally well. They are very well prepared for their next steps. Pupils describe the school as a friendly community and as a place where they belong. Older pupils are proud of how much the school has changed in recent years, to become kind and welcoming for all. Younger pupils appreciate the way that others treat them with respect and dignity. Pupils of all ages are certain that any bullying, should it occur, would be quickly and effectively dealt with. Relationships between staff and pupils are positive. Pupils are well supported by the school’s network of pastoral support. Even those who do not routinely access this support feel reassured knowing that it is there should they need it. This contributes to pupils feeling comfortable and safe at school. Pupils' attendance is high, reflecting how they thrive at school. Pupils benefit from a wide range of additional activities and opportunities, including trips and careers visits that highlight a wide range of work sectors. The school’s many sports clubs and performance opportunities are a highlight for many pupils, including the much-anticipated school shows.

What the school should improve

• The school should continue to embed the highly effective school leadership, structures and processes that it has developed in order to continue to support all pupils to both thrive and to continue to achieve exceptionally well.

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