Bourne Grammar School

Overview

Bourne Grammar School delivers a “very high-quality education” with an “exemplary” culture where pupils are “keen to attend” and feel safe. Leaders have established a well-organised curriculum that enables pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities, to “achieve exceptionally well” and develop independence. While the overall effectiveness is rated Good, the quality of education and behaviour are judged Outstanding, reflecting strong teaching and positive attitudes.

Strengths

• The curriculum is “carefully planned” to help pupils build deep knowledge over time, with subjects “almost always taught by specialist teachers.”
• Pupils demonstrate “exemplary” behaviour, showing “high levels of respect” and taking responsibility for their own conduct without constant supervision.
• Leaders provide “expansive wider development opportunities,” including an “impressive range of extra-curricular activities” that nurture talents and prepare students for adult life.
• Staff support pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities effectively, ensuring they “do not miss out on learning” and access the same ambitious curriculum as their peers.

Areas to improve

• Leaders must ensure all pupils receive “high-quality, impartial careers advice and guidance” and have a “full appreciation of the differences and similarities between different cultures and religions.”
• Governors need to “hold leaders to account as rigorously as they could” to assure the quality of all aspects of provision, particularly personal development.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with a “culture of vigilance” where staff receive high-quality training and leaders act quickly to ensure pupils get the help they need.