Ofsted inspectors praise Twickenham School’s strong leadership following visit
Bourne Education Trust is proud to announce the findings from Ofsted’s most recent visit to Twickenham School. The report, published last week, confirms that the school is performing at the expected standard across all areas - with inspectors finding leadership and governance and inclusion to be of a particularly strong standard.
The findings are testament to the continued commitment of staff, leaders, governors, pupils and their families, and reflect the relentless focus on providing the very best experience for every young person at Twickenham School.
Strong leadership and governance
Inspectors highlighted the strength and cohesion of the school’s leadership and governance. Trustees and governors were found to be knowledgeable, rigorous in their oversight, and united behind an ambitious vision for the school. “Leaders, trustees and governors share a common, ambitious vision for the school and its future. They systematically evaluate strengths and priorities for further development. Well-thought-through ways of managing the school’s work and a keen analytical approach ensure they make wise decisions that put pupils’ interests first.”
The report noted that staff morale is high, with workloads considered manageable and wellbeing well supported. Leaders provide a substantial training and development programme, supporting staff at all career stages - from early career teachers to those pursuing leadership pathways and qualifications.
Inspectors also recognised the school’s commitment to collaboration and outward-facing practice, with staff working alongside other schools and organisations to share strong approaches and develop new ways of working that will benefit pupils at Twickenham.
Inclusion at the heart of the school
Inspectors praised the school’s deeply embedded inclusive ethos, recognising that every pupil - including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities - accesses the curriculum in full breadth and depth alongside their peers.“Inclusive practices are well established across the school. Pupils are known and their needs understood. Staff are knowledgeable and thoughtful educators. There are well-considered systems in place to ensure that support for pupils is targeted and meaningful.”
The report highlights the school’s significant investment of additional funding for disadvantaged pupils, ensuring that inclusion informs all decision-making. Inspectors noted that disadvantaged pupils benefit enormously from this approach, building confidence and independence through access to a wide variety of enrichment opportunities, including leadership roles and performances.
The pastoral care on offer was also particularly commended, with inspectors finding that it is “expertly coordinated so pupils thrive.” Leaders work closely with families and professionals to put pupils’ interests first - an approach warmly appreciated by parents, carers and pupils alike.
A positive picture across the school
All other inspection categories were found to be at the expected standard. Inspectors observed that pupils are responsive and attentive in lessons, and that the school provides a broad and ambitious curriculum that pupils enjoy. Parents and carers expressed high levels of satisfaction with the care given to their children, and the report reflects positively on the sustained efforts of the whole Twickenham School community.
“Leaders are tireless in their efforts to ensure pupils experience a successful education and that they feel valued. Parents, staff and pupils all appreciate the significant and positive journey the school has been on in recent years.”
Alex Russell, BET CEO, said: “We are incredibly proud of everyone at Twickenham School - the staff, leaders, governors and, most importantly, the pupils and their families. This report is a reflection of the care that goes into every aspect of life at the school. At Bourne Education Trust, our ambition has always been to ensure that every young person receives an outstanding education, and we look forward to continuing this journey together.”
Read Ofsted's findings in full here: Twickenham School - Open - Find an Inspection Report - Ofsted