Sponne School, the founder of the Tove Learning Trust and a pillar of educational excellence in the Towcester community, is proud to announce its 'Good' rating in all five assessed areas during the January 2025 Ofsted inspection. This rating, while marking a change from the previous 'Outstanding' status granted under a different inspection regime in 2012, highlights the school's unwavering commitment to continuous improvement and excellence in education.
The Ofsted report celebrates many strengths of the school. Students take great pride in their school and flourish in an environment that encourages respect, collaboration, and ambition. Inspectors noted, “Pastoral care is strong, as is staff’s work to promote pupils’ welfare. Pupils are happy and safe. They know who to turn to if they have any worries.” Students feel valued and supported in their educational journey. The sixth-form provision continues to offer a stimulating and enriching experience, preparing students for a bright future and serving as role models for younger students.
The report commends a well-structured and engaging curriculum with dedicated and highly skilled staff. The inspector noted, “Teachers have strong subject knowledge. They check on students' understanding to ensure that learning is embedded.” A wide range of enriching extra-curricular opportunities, including “a musical life that is quite exceptional,” enhance students’ learning.
The school's commitment to fostering a passion for learning, particularly in reading, has been highlighted as a key strength. The inspector noted, “The school has prioritised reading. Pupils who struggle to read are given additional support to become confident and fluent readers. A strong culture of reading is being nurtured.” The school sets high expectations, and pupils learn well and achieve highly. The inspector praised the school, “The school's end of Year 11 published outcomes for 2024 were very positive, particularly in science and mathematics.”
Headteacher Graham Forbes expressed, “We are delighted that the inspection has recognised Sponne School as a place where the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth-form provision are all rated as 'Good'. This report reflects the exceptional dedication and hard work of our students and staff. While we are incredibly proud of these achievements, our commitment to continuous improvement remains steadfast. This report motivates us to build on our successes and strive for even greater heights.”
Sponne School remains dedicated to fostering a positive and inclusive environment where students can "Dream, Believe, Achieve,” and the school strives to live out these values daily. As a trust, we are extremely proud of the strong leadership and dedication exhibited by our staff, pupils, parents, and the wider community. Their efforts have enabled Sponne School to flourish and become the first choice for families in our locality.
If you would like to learn more about Sponne School, please visit their website at www.sponne.org.uk.
