Northampton School 'absolutely delighted' after being praised by Ofsted just two years after opening

Northampton School, in Thorpeville, Moulton, was inspected on June 23 and received a 'strong standard' rating for achievement, attendance and behaviour, curriculum and teaching, inclusion, leadership and governance, and personal development and wellbeing. The school, which currently has 428 pupils and is part of the NSB Trust, opened in 2024. Inspectors said: 'Pupils thrive in this ambitious and inclusive school. They are proud of their school and describe a community where everyone is accepted for who they are. Relationships between pupils and staff are warm and respectful. Pupils trust staff to listen and act if they have concerns. Pupils say that bullying is rare and dealt with well. As a result, pupils feel safe and have a strong sense of belonging.' Behaviour and attendance were singled out for praise. Ofsted said attendance was above the national average and persistent absence was low. It also found that poor behaviour was rare, while bullying, discrimination and harassment were uncommon. The report said lessons were 'calm and purposeful' and pupils showed positive attitudes towards their learning. Reading was described as a particular strength, with pupils reading fluently and developing increasingly sophisticated subject vocabulary. Inspectors also praised the school's curriculum and teaching, saying pupils benefit from 'expert teaching' and that teachers check learning closely and adapt lessons when pupils need additional support. The report found that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities were fully included in lessons, enrichment and wider school life. The report says: 'The school's ambition for pupils to succeed academically and personally is evident in every aspect of school life. Pupils embrace this ambition. They enjoy school and make the most of the extensive opportunities available to them. "Pupils' participation in clubs, sport, music, drama and leadership is extremely high. These experiences help pupils to develop confidence, resilience and positive friendships. Pupils achieve well, academically and socially. They are very well prepared for their next steps in education.' Leadership was described as a 'significant strength', with inspectors praising the school's clear vision, professional development for staff and focus on continuous improvement. Headteacher Matthew Edwards said: 'We are absolutely delighted with this report, which truly reflects the hard work and dedication of all teaching and support staff who have been part of the journey since the school opened three years ago. It is also of great credit to the students and parents who have bought into the school's vision which focuses on extracurricular activities alongside our drive for academic excellence.' Executive headteacher of the NSB Trust Richard Bernard said: 'We are immensely proud that Ofsted has recognised Northampton School for its all-round excellence and this incredibly strong report is a testament to the dedication, ambition and hard work of our students, staff, governors and trustees since the school opened in 2023. As part of the NSB Trust, we are committed to ensuring that every young person flourishes both academically and personally, and this report affirms that Northampton School is delivering on that commitment. We are very grateful to our parents and wider community for their continued support and look forward to the next chapter in Northampton School's inspiring journey.'