Ofsted Information

“Pupils enjoy learning at this caring and welcoming school” - Ofsted.

Dear Parents and Carers,

I am pleased to share with you the report of our recent OFSTED inspection report and this opening line summarises the overwhelmingly positive findings of the inspectors during the inspection in March 2026.

I am delighted with findings of the team and how they were able to see the very best of the school. The inspection team visited Kingsmead School on 10th and 11th March and the final report is now available for all to read.

The report details many strengths of the school that have continued and been sustained since the last inspection, including praising our pupils and how they approach their learning and time at Kingsmead. The team of OFSTED inspectors were able to observe the pupils during lessons, at break and during form tutor sessions but also view their work in exercise books in addition to talking to teachers, staff and school leaders.

“In lessons, pupils demonstrate highly positive attitudes towards learning. At break and lunch times, pupils socialise well and are respectful of one another.”

“Pupils feel safe and valued, knowing staff will take their concerns seriously. As a result, the school is calm and orderly.”

The inspection team reviewed the exam results of pupils, at KS4 and in the sixth form over recent years and recognised the high grades achieved and progress made.

“Published outcomes in national tests show that, over a sustained period, pupils’ achievement is above the national average in many subjects. Pupils and sixth form students are well prepared for their next steps in education or employment.”

We are incredibly proud of the pupils, staff and community of Hednesford. This report reflects the hard work, deep commitment and shared RIME values that drive everything we do at Kingsmead. It also reflects the impact that a truly inclusive education can have on a community and the inspectors were able to comment positively on this.

“Leaders have created a highly inclusive culture in school”

“Teachers know pupils’ needs very well. They consistently adapt their teaching so that disadvantaged pupils and those with special educations needs and/or disabilities can access the curriculum.”

The framework of OFSTED inspections and reports has changed since the last inspection of Kingsmead in December 2021. As such, comparisons between the two gradings are not possible and no final grade is now given. This video explains the new framework and acts as a guide for parents:

Achievement

Curriculum and teaching

Inclusion

The four remaining areas were found to be at the ‘Expected Standard’:

Attendance and behaviour

Leadership and governance,

Personal development and wellbeing

Post 16 provision

We are proud to be part of the JTMAT Trust. The Trust’s leadership and support has played a key role in sustaining and advancing Kingsmead’s success since the last inspection. Our governors too continue to play a key role in the school. Kevin Maycock, Chair of Governors, comments;

“You will have a copy of the report from Ofsted, a new style of report, and we know that the standards and quality expected of schools by Ofsted are now higher than ever. On behalf of the Local Governing Body, I should like to both thank and congratulate all those involved, whether staff, parents or pupils, for achieving such a positive outcome for our school. The governors feel that the report fairly represents Kingsmead. It gives due recognition to the many strengths of the school, especially in terms of the pupils' achievement, the curriculum provided, the quality of teaching and the inclusion of all of our students whatever their background or abilities. The overriding task for all of us involved at Kingsmead now is to continue the excellent progress that Kingsmead has made in recent years and to ensure that all of our young people become the very best that they can be.”

At the time of the inspection, I had been Headteacher for just a little over 6 months. This report recognises what I have seen daily. Kingsmead is a welcoming school, ambitious for its pupils to excel and demonstrate our RIME values. It has been a privilege to lead the school through this inspection and I look forward to the coming years, leading Kingsmead to become even better for our current and future pupils.

Should you wish to discuss the outcomes further or speak to a school leader at the school, we would be delighted to welcome you.

If you wish to receive a printed copy of our Ofsted report, please email ks-office@kingsmeadschool.net

Paul Averis

Headteacher