Hounsdown School in Totton rated ‘outstanding’ following Ofsted inspection

A TOTTON secondary school described as “ambitious and inclusive” has achieved the top Ofsted rating of ‘outstanding’ .

Hounsdown School in Jacobs Gutter Lane, which teaches 1,298 pupils, was visited by inspectors on 22nd and 23rd March.

The glowing report explained that leaders were “determined to support all pupils to do their best while also maintaining positive well-being”.

As a result, pupils were said to be “proud to attend a school that is ambitious for their futures and inclusive”.

Head teacher David Veal told the A&T: “The latest Ofsted report reflects a school to be proud of and one I am humbled to serve as head teacher.

“It is fantastic to see our values of kindness and respect reflected in the comments made by parents and students during the recent inspection.”

Inspectors said the curriculum was carefully thought out – however some fluctuations in staffing within some subjects have contributed to “inconsistencies” with how content is taught.

The report stated: “In subjects, including art for example, leaders have broken down complex skills into step-by-step stages to support all pupils to know and do more.”

Most pupils meet leaders’ high expectations for behaviour and conduct in school, said Ofsted, and know what their responsibilities are in keeping the school a safe and happy environment.

The report added: “Most pupils are confident that any bullying in school is resolved quickly.”

The school was aware of low-level disruption taking place in some classes, it added, and was taking action to ensure staff were supported to consistently implement the behaviour policy.

Leaders were said to be equally as ambitious for pupils to pursue their wider talents and interests as they are for their academic pathways, providing a range of clubs and events to complement what is taught in lessons.

The report also highlighted how pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities are accurately identified, with adaptations made to their curriculum helping them to benefit from extra support.

Staff are proud to work at the school and feel well supported by leaders, it concluded.

Mr Veal added: “We value the focus from the inspection on our own continual improvement, regardless of the outcome or grading.

“We are working hard to ensure even greater consistency in our curriculum delivery through spreading best practice between staff and focusing on the most effective feedback to students.”

“We believe our emphasis on a broad curriculum and enrichment opportunities, coupled with extensive pastoral support and care, give young people the strongest possible chance to be the best versions of themselves they can be.”