The Howard Academy Trust

Miers Court Primary School is celebrating a fantastic Ofsted result, receiving a majority ‘Strong Standard’ rating under the new Ofsted framework, with the school receiving five ‘Strong Standard’ and two ‘Expected Standard’ judgements.

Inspectors judged Attendance and Behaviour, Inclusion, Leadership and Governance and Personal Development & Wellbeing to be of ‘Strong Standard’, meaning that leaders are working above the standard expected of them.

The school’s curriculum was highly praised, being described as “thought provoking”, with Ofsted commenting on the many “interesting activities that staff design” for pupils, which ensures that they “achieve well”. It was highlighted that “Pupils’ attendance is above the national average” and that “attitudes to their learning are extremely positive”, reflecting the supportive and structured environment that the schools provides for its pupils each and every day.

We are proud to share that The Howard School is celebrating a monumental Ofsted result, having secured the first ‘Exceptional’ criteria grading for a secondary school in Kent, under the new Ofsted framework.

This result comes amidst an overwhelmingly positive Ofsted inspection, which also sees the school receiving four ‘Strong Standard’ and two ‘Expected Standard’ judgements.

Inspectors judged Personal Development and Wellbeing to be ‘Exceptional’, a grade reserved for practice that is among the very best in the country. Inspectors found that the school’s work to support pupils’ mental health, character, and spiritual growth has a "transformational” impact, particularly for its most vulnerable learners.

We are proud to share The Abbey School's latest Ofsted Report, in which they have secured “strong standard” and “expected standard” gradings across almost all criteria. Ofsted, in their new framework, have recognised significant strengths in pupils’ personal development, wellbeing and post-16 provision.

Inspectors judged Personal Development and Wellbeing and Post-16 Provision to be Strong Standard, highlighting the school’s culture of care, high expectations, and effective preparation of students for life beyond school. The Pastoral Team was praised highly, with Inspectors commenting that "Pastoral support is a strength. Pupils trust staff to help them manage worries, and... feel safe and supported". Safeguarding was judged to be Met, confirming that arrangements are effective and that pupils feel safe, supported and confident to seek help when needed.

The inspection also confirmed that Curriculum and Teaching, Attendance and Behaviour, Inclusion, and Leadership and Governance are operating at the Expected Standard. Inspectors recognised a clear and ambitious curriculum, improving behaviour, secure safeguarding systems, and leadership that is reflective, purposeful and accurate in its self-evaluation. Inspectors noted that "the school has been through significant positive change" and that “Leaders demonstrate a deep commitment to their vision for further school improvement".

We are pleased to announce that The Rowans has been rated Strong Standard across all areas in its recent Ofsted inspection under the new report‑card framework.

Inspectors recognised the consistent strength of the Academy’s provision, highlighting its trauma‑informed approach, inclusive culture and the positive impact it has on children and young people who have experienced significant barriers to education.

Ofsted noted the school’s strong curriculum and teaching, its calm and respectful environment, improving attendance, and pupils’ positive attitudes to learning, despite many arriving with disrupted educational experiences.

Inspectors commented that “this is a highly inclusive school where staff are ambitious for all pupils” and where “the school values of kindness, commitment and resilience are actively lived out by pupils.” They complimented the staff body, noting that they “are committed to changing the future life chances of all pupils who attend the school” and “have a deep understanding of pupils and their individual needs.”