Watford Grammar School for Boys receives 'outstanding' Ofsted rating

The grammar school was rated 'outstanding' in all categories after five inspectors visited over two days in October.

Watford Boys' was described in the inspectors' report as a "remarkably friendly and welcoming school" with pupils' behaviour praised after demonstrating "exemplary manners".

The students are said to produce "high-quality work" with teachers also recognised for their work to help and push the students to be the best they can be.

Watford Grammar School for Boys

It was the first time in 15 years the boys' school had been subjected to a full Ofsted inspection because of its previous 'outstanding' rating.

But the introduction of the new Ofsted framework in September 2019 has raised the bar for all schools, introducing new emphasis on the quality of the curriculum, personal development and staff wellbeing.

The chief inspector of education, Amanda Spielman, has acknowledged the new framework and the removal of the exemption for outstanding schools is likely to result in about half of all outstanding schools losing that status.

Watford Grammar School for Boys head teacher Ian Cooksey

However Watford Grammar School for Boys head teacher Ian Cooksey is delighted to see his school retain its Ofsted rating, as well as achieve a clean sweep in all categories for the first time.

He said: "It is reasonable to conclude that we have not only sustained excellence over the intervening years between inspections – we have also sought improvements and progressed.

"We have achieved this recognition through a collective effort as we are well-blessed with a committed, passionate and talented staff body and very impressive pupils who seek to excel."