A Queens Avenue-based secondary school has retained its 'Good' Ofsted rating following an inspection in March.

The Bicester School, part of the Activate Learning Education Trust, which also has a sixth form, was described as a place where 'pupils thrive'. 

The Ofsted inspectors said in the report: "The core values of this school are 'respect, resilience and responsibility'. They shine through the day-to-day work of this positive and happy community.

“Pupils are warm and friendly. They form positive relationships with each other and with staff. Staff share a commitment to providing pupils with the best possible education. As a result, pupils thrive at this inclusive school.”

According to the report, a few of its particular strengths include a sixth-form provision and a well-considered and ambitious curriculum.

Pupils' conduct was marked as calm and orderly, stating that they behave well, treat each other with respect, and are well prepared for adult life.

Parents also expressed positivity about the school and its caring and supportive ethos.

One parent said: "All pupils are looked after and given what they need. The Bicester School go above and beyond to help students and families."

The inspection also highlighted SEND provision, personal development and behaviour, with the inspector saying that the expectations were met.

Tony Rushworth, Executive Principal of The Bicester School, said: “I am delighted that the Ofsted team has recognised the many strengths of our school, especially the ‘genuine care’ that is shown for the pupils, our commitment to ‘provide pupils with the best possible education’, and the quality of the sixth form provision which is noted as a ‘strength of the school.’ 

"We will now seek to build on this report to ensure that our children continue to have a high-quality education in the years ahead.”

The full report can be accessed at https://tinyurl.com/26aptey4.

Roger Dalrymple, chair of governors, said: "This very positive report highlights the school’s strengths in providing a caring and supportive environment in which pupils can thrive, enabled by the very best teaching.

"All of the governors are delighted at this well-deserved result for the school, and we look forward to supporting the leadership and whole-school community in building further success for The Bicester School and its pupils."

Joanne Harper, chief executive officer of ALET, said: "I am thrilled with the very positive report received following the rigorous inspection of the school.

"This is indeed a very special school, that delivers a high-quality education for the Bicester community.

"The Trust is enormously proud of the way in which strong relationships across the staff body, pupils, parents, governors and other stakeholders have enabled the school to thrive."