School inspectors have praised Oxted School for creating a community where pupils of all backgrounds and abilities feel they truly belong.

Ofsted visited the school in March and confirmed that it met “Expected standard” in every category, demonstrating “Strong standard” in leadership and governance. It was the first time the school had been inspected under the new “report card” framework.

Inspectors praised:

• School leaders – who have “an astute understanding of the school” and whose actions are recognised by staff, parents and pupils alike. Trustees and the local board provide robust challenge, and together have driven rapid, measurable improvement
• Personal development – with the curriculum carefully designed so pupils are well prepared for life beyond school, and a varied programme of sporting, performing arts and enrichment activities enabling them to develop their talents and interests
• Pastoral care – with leaders ensuring pupils receive high-quality, individually tailored support. Pupils feel valued, know staff well, and enjoy a genuine sense of belonging in what the report describes as an “inclusive school”
• Support for pupils with SEND – with leaders passionate about removing barriers so vulnerable pupils can “thrive academically and personally.” Pupils in the SEND Centre or VI (visually impaired) centre make suitable progress from their individual starting points, and support is regularly reviewed and adjusted

Maurice Devenney, Principal of Oxted School, said: “Our aim is to bring out the best in every pupil. It is this commitment to high standards and inclusion that inspectors witnessed in action.

“Our students consistently tell us that they are proud to be part of Oxted, and I’m pleased to see this reflected in the report. Inspectors also noted that learning at Oxted goes far beyond academic study with a rich range of creative, cultural and sporting opportunities.

“I am grateful for the hard work of all the staff in #teamOxted who have made such a positive write-up possible.”

The report highlighted the school’s strong commitment to its most vulnerable pupils. Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), those who are disadvantaged, and those known to children’s social care are “well supported and cared for.”

Oxted School is part of The Howard Partnership Trust, a values-driven trust committed to delivering life-changing education.