Ofsted Report
We are incredibly proud of our Ofsted report published in May 2026.
The inspection was carried out under Ofsted’s new, more demanding framework, where the expected standard represents a significantly higher threshold than in the past. Judgements are now based on more rigorous evidence and a sharper focus on consistency and long-term impact. As a result, achieving expected standard reflects a high standard of performance across the school. The parental video from Ofsted (New Ofsted report cards and grades: a guide for parents) provides a helpful overview of the new framework.
Since the last inspection, there has been a significant focus on developing leadership at all levels and improving the quality of education across the school, with a clear aim of embedding evidence-informed practice to ensure that all learners receive an excellent standard of education. These sustained and rapid improvements led to a wide range of subjects achieving outcomes above the national and local averages in the summer 2025 Year 11 GCSE outcomes. Alongside this, we have been determined to provide a personal development and well-being programme that goes beyond the expected standard, offering students meaningful opportunities to serve their local community through enrichment and social action initiatives.
We were therefore delighted that the inspection recognised the strength of this work. The school was judged to be at the ‘expected standard’ in achievement, attendance and behaviour, inclusion, curriculum and teaching, with personal development and wellbeing recognised as being at the ‘strong standard’ - an outstanding outcome under this enhanced framework. The strong judgement in personal development and wellbeing reflects our consistent and successful approach, and the real difference this is making to the lives of our pupils.
We warmly encourage you to read the full report which is linked below. While there are many strengths highlighted throughout, we would particularly like to draw your attention to the aspects of the written report that we are most proud of:
- ‘Pupils are happy at Bury Church of England High School’
- ‘Leaders act in the best interests of pupils’
- ‘Personal development and wellbeing are at the heart of leaders’ work at this school’
- ‘Pupils benefit from a rich and impactful personal development offer’
- ‘Pastoral care is personalised and highly effective. This means pupils get the care and support they need quickly’
- ‘Leaders have high expectations of pupils’ behaviour’
- ‘Pupils behave calmly and respectfully throughout the school day. This ensures learning takes place uninterrupted’
- ‘In lessons, pupils are focused on their work. They are keen to share their learning and show pride in their endeavours’
- ‘Leaders have improved the ambition of the curriculum. It is now ordered in a logical way. Teachers use their secure subject knowledge to deliver new learning’
- ‘Leaders have developed a clear lesson structure that helps pupils to learn’
We are immensely proud of this outcome for our children, staff and wider school community and we are now resolutely focused on going even further. We will continue to build on these strengths to deliver an exceptional education for every pupil.
SIAMS Report
We are extremely proud of the outcomes of our latest SIAMS inspection, which recognises Bury Church of England High School as a truly inclusive and nurturing community where our Christian vision is lived out each day. The report affirms that our vision is “at the heart of this community, inspiring and infusing its life and work,” enabling students and staff alike to flourish and “let their light shine.”
It highlights the strong, positive culture we have built, noting our “inclusive, supportive” ethos and the “highly positive relationships that are evident throughout.” We are especially pleased that the inspection recognises the care shown across our community, where “students and adults look out for one another and treat each other with respect and dignity.”
The report celebrates the commitment of leaders, staff, governors and the trust, recognising a shared “energy and motivation” to support every child, to ensure that each student can flourish, “whatever their needs.”
This report reflects the dedication of our whole school community and strengthens our commitment to continue growing, improving and living out our vision every day.
Link to Ofsted Parent View survey.
