The latest inspection report reflects the exceptional commitment, ambition and care that define life at East Barnet School. We are incredibly proud of the findings and of the recognition given to our students, staff, governors and wider community.
Inspectors highlighted the positive culture that exists throughout the school and the strong relationships that underpin students’ success:
Pupils are proud to be a part of the East Barnet School community. Staff combine high expectations for all their pupils with a distinct sense of belonging. Pupils enjoy their learning and take pride in their work. They value the positive relationships they have with staff and appreciate the support they receive to help them succeed in all areas of school life.”
The report recognises the high standards of behaviour and attendance that support learning across the school:
High expectations for behaviour are firmly embedded across the school. Staff apply leaders’ expectations reliably and use shared language so that pupils understand what to do. Pupils consistently demonstrate positive attitudes towards their work and achieve well. Pupils are polite and courteous to staff and visitors.”
Inspectors also praised the school’s ambitious curriculum and the quality of teaching that enables students to achieve highly:
Leaders have developed a well-planned, broad and ambitious curriculum that meets pupils’ aspirations. It is carefully ordered so that pupils’ new learning builds securely on what has gone before.”
Teachers have secure subject knowledge. They explain new concepts clearly and use high-quality resources that help pupils connect new learning to what they already know.”
We were particularly pleased that the inspection recognised our commitment to inclusion and ensuring every young person can flourish:
Inclusion is at the heart of East Barnet School. Leaders are wholly committed to ensuring that every pupil has the opportunity to excel, regardless of their starting points.”
Pupils know that staff care about them.”
Safeguarding continues to be a significant strength of the school. Inspectors confirmed that safeguarding standards are fully met and recognised the strong culture that exists across the community:
Leaders and/or those responsible for governance and oversight fulfil their specific responsibilities and have established an open culture in which safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility and concerns are actively identified, acted upon and managed. As a result, pupils are made safer and feel safe.”
The report also celebrates the breadth of opportunities available beyond the classroom. Inspectors recognised the extensive personal development programme, leadership opportunities and enrichment activities that help students develop confidence, character and a strong sense of belonging. Opportunities such as House Ambassadors, Reader Leaders, Student Librarians and Bereavement Mentors were highlighted as examples of how students contribute to the life of the school and develop important leadership skills.
Our Sixth Form provision was also recognised as a significant strength. Inspectors praised the inclusive and ambitious curriculum, the expertise of teachers and the excellent support students receive as they prepare for university, apprenticeships and employment. The report notes that students achieve well, attend regularly and benefit from a wide range of experiences that support both their academic and personal development.
We were especially proud that inspectors recognised the culture that sits at the heart of East Barnet School: one built on high expectations, inclusion, ambition and care. The report concludes that students thrive in a highly inclusive environment where they are known as individuals, supported to overcome barriers and encouraged to achieve their full potential.
It is a privilege to work with such talented, hardworking and inspiring young people. We would like to thank our staff, governors, parents and carers for their continued support, and most importantly our students, whose enthusiasm, kindness and determination make East Barnet School such a special place to learn and grow.
L Swaine,
Headteacher
Our last Ofsted inspection under the old framework was in March 2022. Prior to this, we had a short inspection in April 2017 and a full inspection in April 2012. All can be read below.