Following a visit last month, Ofsted inspectors have highlighted a range of the school’s strengths including the “love for learning” pupils have and the way they “value their time” at Chilmington Green.

Under Ofsted’s new inspection framework, which now assesses schools on a wider range of criteria and includes more context about a school, the inspectors have judged Chilmington Green School to be at a ‘Strong Standard’ across four of the key assessment categories. The school is said to be performing at the ‘Expected Standard’ across the remaining two assessment categories, with safeguarding judged to be effective.

Ofsted’s report has emphasised the “high expectations” set by Principal Jon Rutland and the leadership team, which enable pupils to “achieve well” from their respective starting points. Teachers at the school are described as “skilled” and commended for their “detailed subject knowledge”. This allows them to select “highly engaging activities” for pupils which enable them to “develop knowledge and skills with confidence”.

Alongside the academic curriculum, the inspectors have reflected on the way staff’s commitment to delivering an Education with Character allows pupils to “develop a rich array of skills and talents beyond the classroom” through a bespoke ‘Pupil Charter’. As a result, pupils are said not only to be “well prepared for their next steps” but also encouraged to be “highly ambitious” about what they can achieve beyond school.

With such positive attitudes and behaviour from pupils – who are praised for being “polite and considerate” – the inspectors noted the “calm atmosphere that permeates the school” and how “purposeful” lessons are.

Staff, likewise, are said to be “very positive” about their work at the school and value the professional developments they receive.

Jon Rutland, Principal of Chilmington Green School, said of the report:

“Ofsted’s feedback highlights so much of what we are proud of as a school community: our students’ excellent attitudes to their learning, the dedication of our staff team and the love of learning that cascades through the school.

“Since Chilmington Green opened in 2023, growing year-on-year since and moving into our new building last year, there has been so much enthusiasm and support for what our school could offer. This first inspection report is a testament to everyone who has championed and been part of Chilmington Green School to date, not least our brilliant students and staff.

“I know all of us at the school will be spurred on by this outcome and we look forward to building upon everything students, staff and families already value and appreciate going forwards.”

Benjamin Antell, Director of Secondary Academies at United Learning said:

“This outcome demonstrates not only the strong standards already in place but offers a positive signal for the school’s ongoing success, as leaders and staff build upon this report over the coming years.”