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TKAT's Thomas Bennett Community College has received a ‘Good’ rating from its latest Ofsted inspection following significant improvements led by its senior leadership team. 

The secondary and sixth form college based in Crawley had previously been rated ‘Requires Improvement’ by Ofsted in 2019.

Despite a turbulent few years for all schools during the Covid-19 pandemic, the school’s leadership team alongside TKAT’s board of trustees have worked to make improvements taking onboard learnings from the previous inspection. 

TKAT leaders have worked to improve the school creating an “inclusive and caring culture”. This work was acknowledged by the Ofsted inspector, commenting in the report that “leaders have worked relentlessly to create an inclusive and caring culture throughout the school”. The inspector commended new initiatives introduced by the school including the reading programme to support those falling behind, and the specialist support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Stuart Smith, Headteacher at Thomas Bennett Community College commented: “I’m exceptionally proud of the effort that our senior team and the wider staff at Thomas Bennett Community College have put into improving our school. While there is always more to be done, and we’ll continue to evaluate and make improvements, it was particularly encouraging that the inspector recognised the pride both our staff and students feel about the school.

The last few years have been difficult for staff and students, and there remains challenges ahead. It’s vital that the school is a safe and engaging place for all, and we’ll continue to ensure this is the case.”   

Dr Karen Roberts, CEO of TKAT commented: “It is a true testament to the work of Stuart and his team that the school has had such a positive inspection this year. While the school has had its challenges, there was a strong base on which to grow, and Stuart has tirelessly led the charge for change. I’m looking forward to seeing how Thomas Bennett Community College continues to grow and develop its programmes and processes to support its students.”

You can read the full report here - https://reports.ofsted.gov.uk/provider/23/138620