Nailsea School Celebrates Success Following Positive Ofsted Inspection

Nailsea School recently had the call from Ofsted for a comprehensive evaluation earlier this spring. Following the challenging circumstances brought about by the pandemic, the school’s leadership, alongside the Wessex Learning Trust central team, were keen to showcase the strides made since their last Ofsted visit in March 2020.

Ofsted’s assessment of the school was very positive. The report stated, “Nailsea School is a welcoming and inclusive community. Pupils are proud of their school and behave well in lessons and around the school site.”

One aspect underpinning the inspection was the academic progress at Nailsea. The inspection team observed, “The school’s curriculum is designed well in all areas. The school has identified precisely what pupils should know and in which order… Teachers are experts in their subjects… Activities enable pupils to build on prior learning and apply their knowledge in new contexts. As a result, most pupils achieve well, and the school’s published outcomes have improved over time.”

Central to Nailsea’s ethos is a commitment to values that foster both aspiration and inclusivity. It was heartening to see this reflected in the inspection report across multiple dimensions. The report noted, “The relationships that exist between staff and pupils underpin the culture of respect that is evident in classrooms and corridors. Low level disruption and bullying are rare. Pupils attend well because they feel safe and well cared for. Pastoral care is a strength of the school in all key stages.”

In addressing the needs of students with special educational requirements, the report acknowledged Nailsea’s effective support system, stating, “The school effectively supports a high number of pupils with educational, health and care plans, including pupils who attend the specially resourced provision for pupils with SEND. Additional adults support pupils well in lessons. The school monitors these pupils’ progress and ensures that all pupils are included in the wider life of the school.”

A standout accomplishment was the outstanding grading received by Nailsea’s Sixth Form. This accolade holds particular significance as the Sixth Form underwent redevelopment by a dedicated team, achieving exceptional success in just over a year since September 2022.

Ofsted’s assessment of the Sixth Form stated, “Students in the sixth form develop confidence and independence. They have exemplary attitudes to their work and contribute meaningfully to the life of the school and wider society.”

Mrs. Elliott, the Headteacher of Nailsea School, expressed her satisfaction with the inspection outcomes, stating, “I’m pleased that the Ofsted team were able to see the improvements that have been made within the school and sixth form. I have always believed in our staff and students, and I am proud that the team’s hard work has been recognised – not only in the improvement of academic outcomes, but in the development of our pastoral care and the strong sense of community, kindness and respect that brings.”

Nailsea School’s success story is a fantastic example of their dedicated commitment to holistic education, where academic excellence is complemented by an ethos of inclusivity and community engagement.