Ofsted says Kettering school is good in all areas

Southfield School in Kettering has been judged as good

Inspectors spent two days at Southfield School in Kettering last month and concluded that the school has gone from requiring improvement at the last inspection to being good.

They said the governors, headteacher and senior leaders have effectively promoted a culture of learning across the school, the quality of teaching overall is good, and teachers’ good subject knowledge is contributing to engaging pupils’ interest in learning.

They also said students are keen to learn, outcomes for pupils are good across a range of subjects and year groups, and many are achieving high grades in a range of subjects.

Headteacher Julie Goswell said: “I firmly believe that through a strong commitment to meeting the needs of the individual and in striking a balance between challenge and support, Southfield staff play a vital role in securing the best possible future for our students and in promoting the traditional values upon which the school was founded.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their part in securing this outcome and in paving the way for future successes; Southfield would not be the place it is without the unwavering support that we have received from students, staff, parents and governors.”

The report also said pupils’ behaviour is good, attendance has been above the national average for several years and students are proud of their school.

Staff were particularly pleased with the comments made by inspectors about the sixth form.

The inspectors’ report said: “The sixth form is good.

“Standards reached, and the very good guidance from staff, result in all learners going on to higher education, employment or training.

“Many enter into well-respected universities having received a rounded education that prepares them for the real world.”

The girls school has 950 pupils aged between 11 and 18, which includes a mixed sixth form.

To read the report in full, search for Southfield School for Girls on the Ofsted website at www.gov.uk/find-ofsted-inspection-report.