The Ferrers School, part of Meridian Trust, has been praised for its “inclusive culture” following a new Ofsted Report Card inspection, which took place in March.
The school in Higham Ferrers has been rated ‘Expected Standard’ in four key areas: ‘Attendance and behaviour’, ‘Inclusion’, ‘Leadership and governance’, and ‘Post 16 provision’. The new Ofsted framework no longer uses single-word overall judgements and instead focuses on how well schools meet the needs of all pupils. The previous grading system has been replaced by a five-point scale, with ‘Expected Standard’ now the benchmark for secure performance.
A particular strength highlighted by the inspectors was the school’s “inclusive culture”. Inspectors noted that “staff work together to minimise any barriers to pupils’ learning and to ensure that pupils can participate in school activities. Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities receive nurturing care.” Inspectors also found that “Pupils are happy at The Ferrers School. They get along well with each other and enjoy warm relationships with staff”
Further praise was given to the school’s sixth form provision, where inspectors reported that “leaders have constructed study programmes designed to raise students’ aspirations and give them a broad range of course options.” They added that “staff give them careful guidance to help them achieve their goals and ambitions” and “as with the rest of the school, students in the sixth form benefit from high-quality, personalised pastoral care.”
Since joining in September 2025, Principal Clare Raku has established a clear vision for the school. Inspectors noted that in areas such as inclusion and behaviour, “significant progress has already been made.” They also highlighted that “leaders at all levels, including those from the multi-academy trust, are united in their ambition to ensure all pupils achieve well and are prepared for their future lives.”
While strong foundations are in place, some aspects of provision are not yet consistently meeting the expected standard and remain priorities for ongoing development including ‘Achievement’, ‘Curriculum and teaching’, and ‘Personal development and wellbeing’.
Principal Clare Raku said,
“We are really pleased with the outcome of this inspection and the Report Card, which celebrates so many of the strengths we are proud of at The Ferrers School, including our inclusive ethos, the positive behaviour of our pupils, and the genuine pride and commitment shown by our staff every day.
It is also encouraging to see that the areas identified for further development are ones we already have a clear focus on and are actively working to strengthen. We know that lasting improvement takes time, but we are excited about the progress being made and remain wholeheartedly committed to providing the very best education and opportunities for every child in our community.”
Richard Spencer, Executive Principal at Meridian Trust, said,
“It is positive to see the hard work of Mrs Raku and her team recognised in this Report Card. While there is still important work ahead to ensure The Ferrers School reaches its full potential, this outcome reflects clear progress across a number of key areas.
“I am confident in the direction the school is moving and look forward to seeing its continued development and success in the years ahead. I would also like to thank all colleagues across Meridian Trust for their ongoing support and commitment to the success of the school.”