Warblington School hailed for positive Ofsted report after implementing major improvements

Warblington School, in Southleigh Road, Havant, has celebrated its latest Ofsted report, which was published following an inspection on February 3.

After previously receiving a ‘requires improvement’ back in July 2023, the secondary school has now been described as a “welcoming” setting that “pupils are cared for well and are safe”.

Mike Hartnell, headteacher, said: “We are delighted to share the results of our recent Ofsted inspection, which recognises the significant progress Warblington School has made moving from the category of requiring improvement to meeting the new expected standards across key areas. It is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our entire school community.

“We are particularly pleased the inspectors recognised the excellent work of our pastoral teams focus on consistent high-quality teaching, robust leadership, and targeted support for all students.”

As part of a major shakeup with Ofsted, school reports are now presented differently with each criteria being ranked exceptional, strong standard, expected standard, needs attention or urgent attention. In the most recent Warblington School report, Ofsted has outlined it is currently meeting the expected standard for the curriculum, inclusion, leadership and personal development, but still needs to improve its achievement and attendance.

The published inspection says: “Leaders’ very well-considered approaches involve leaders at all levels and demonstrate how they have improved teaching successfully since the last inspection.

“The well-sequenced curriculum is ambitious and designed effectively across subjects in key stages 3 and 4. Typically, teachers deliver the curriculum well. Leaders have an accurate and sophisticated understanding of the quality of teaching. Teachers check pupils’ learning effectively to understand how securely pupils have acquired knowledge. When misconceptions arise for pupils, teachers typically address these well. Gaps in pupils’ basic skills, for example in reading, are identified quickly and accurately.”

The school has a clear understanding of barriers that pupils may face and staff implement a clear identification process to provide ample support. Staff also work closely with external partners so children with special educational needs and/or disabilities who have an education, health and care (EHC) plan have specific help.

Pastoral support for vulnerable pupils has been noted as “particularly effective”, with the school’s ‘gateway’ provision supportsing pupils to make an effective transition from primary to secondary school.

The report added: “The school instils in pupils the key values of being respectful, ready to learn, resilient and kind. Consequently, there is a real sense of community across the school. Pupils are prepared well for their future lives. They work together constructively and respectfully. Reported bullying is rare and is dealt with effectively.”

To continue making improvements, staff should focus on attendance and that current pupils’ achievement in school translates into positive outcomes at the end of key stage 4.

For more information about the Ofsted for Warblington School, click here.