The Charter School North Dulwich has earned two 'Exceptional' ratings from Ofsted, the highest possible grade, for its Post-16 Provision and Inclusion. The school, part of The Charter Schools Educational Trust, was inspected on May 19, with the report published on June 22.
Whole school community praised
Head Teacher Mark Pain said the outcome is 'something our whole school community can feel incredibly proud of'. He noted that under Ofsted's old framework, around 15 per cent of schools secured Outstanding judgments, making the Exceptional grade 'three times more difficult' to achieve. 'The fact that we have two of these top grades highlights our continued and relentless focus to create a school community where young people can achieve academically and genuinely thrive,' he added.
Inclusion 'embedded by design'
Inspectors described the school as 'a beacon in the heart of the community' and said pupils are 'proud to belong here'. They reported that 'inclusivity is embedded by design' and that 'disadvantaged pupils are extremely well supported to thrive in all aspects of school life'. The school was praised for its 'precise support' for pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), who 'achieve exceptionally well across the curriculum'. Staff work 'highly effectively' with external agencies, and pupils known to social care receive 'superb' personalised support including mentoring, therapies, and counselling.
Sixth form a 'shining example'
On Post-16 Provision, inspectors said: 'The sixth form is a shining example of academic excellence and inclusive practice.' Leaders have 'taken deliberate decisions to widen access' for disadvantaged students and those with barriers to learning. A high proportion of students with SEND achieve highly due to 'carefully selected strategies and sensitive pastoral support', with many progressing to 'prestigious destinations'. Inspectors added: 'Students are thoroughly prepared for adult life. They have a deep understanding of financial literacy, study skills and how to manage stress.'
Strong Standard in other areas
The school also achieved the second-best grade, Strong Standard, in five other areas: Achievement, Attendance and Behaviour, Curriculum and Teaching, Leadership and Governance, and Personal Development and Wellbeing. Year 11 pupils achieve 'well above the national average' in examinations, and sixth form outcomes rank among the highest nationally. Attendance, including for disadvantaged pupils and those with SEND, is above the national average and continues to improve each year, thanks to 'impactful strategies' to support those who struggle to attend regularly.
