Parmiter's School: read the full 'outstanding' Ofsted report

Parmiter’s School in High Elms Lane was awarded the highest mark in all five categories that were assessed: the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth form provision.

Headmaster Michael Jones said he and the governors were “delighted” with the report which found that Parmiter’s pupils “thrive” throughout the school and receive an “exceptional” standard of education.

Headmaster Michael Jones said the report showed Parmiter's provides an "exceptional experience" for all students. (Image: Parmiter's School) It marks another success for the academy, which teaches 1,430 students between the ages of 11 to 18 in High Elms Lane, after they previously rated ‘outstanding’ in September 2011 before it converted to an academy in 2012.

Read the full report below:

What is it like to attend this school?

Throughout the school, including the sixth form, pupils thrive. They receive an exceptional standard of education. Not only do pupils achieve high academic success, but they also develop into well rounded, active members of society. This does not happen by chance. Pupils prosper, in large part, because they are so well integrated into the Parmiter’s family.

The remarkable co-curricular offer, which is an integral part of school life, helps to create this thriving school community. Pupils make significant contributions to their school. Many students volunteer to support their younger peers in lessons. Others run clubs such as the Afro-Caribbean society, where differences are celebrated. This involvement in wider opportunities plays a notable role in enhancing pupils’ wellbeing. They build excellent friendships with their peers and greatly value these high quality relationships. 

Inspectors praised the school's remarkable co-curricular offer. (Image: Parmiter's School) The school’s purposeful ‘pursuit of excellence’ and academic rigour enables pupils to excel. Pupils quickly learn the skills they require to be successful in their studies. They love completing the challenging work that they are given. Many become accomplished musicians or athletes. Pupils swiftly become disciplined, organised learners. They are active  participants in their learning and consistently demonstrate high levels of focus.

What does the school do well and what does it need to do better?

From the moment pupils join, typically in Year 7 or Year 12, they quickly settle in. The curriculum is expertly designed to be challenging for all. It builds on what pupils already know and engages them in interesting content from the start. 

Year 7

In Year 7, pupils study well-planned ‘bridging units’ which ensure they all have the foundational knowledge they require to forge ahead with their learning. Across all years, including sixth form, there is a strong focus on making sure pupils have the cultural knowledge they need to appreciate the richness of the curriculum. Teachers explicitly teach pupils the vocabulary they require to access the high-quality texts they read. They plan a wealth of interesting experiences, such as a trip to Normandy, to supplement what pupils learn in lessons. Most pupils attend lunchtime clubs, such as for music or design technology, that further enhance their understanding and enjoyment of their subjects.

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Other year groups

Across all year groups, pupils’ enthusiasm and excitement towards their learning is evident. Teachers are experts in the subjects that they teach. They skilfully use highly effective questioning to draw out pupils’ prior learning and to deepen and challenge their thinking. Teachers continually check what pupils know and do not move on if there are any misconceptions. They have an excellent awareness of how well pupils are achieving. Any gaps in understanding are immediately addressed. These highly effective strategies support all pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), to achieve extremely well.

Reading

The school quickly identifies any pupils who do not read as fluently as they should. They put in targeted support that specifically focuses on the precise areas that pupils need to develop. Subsequently, any gaps in pupils’ vocabulary knowledge, comprehension or reading speed are quickly and effectively addressed.

Behaviour

Pupils’ conduct and manners are exemplary. They help and support their peers to do well. It is common practice to hold doors open for others and behave in a friendly, courteous manner. Adults enforce clear learning routines. Pupils sensibly transition between activities, moving seamlessly between their laptops and other resources without losing learning time. Any disruption to learning is incredibly rare. However, there are effective pastoral systems in place to support any pupil who may need it.

Parmiter's School in High Elms Lane. (Image: Parmiter's School)

Motto and personal development

The school’s motto, "nemo sibi nascitur" (no one is born to him or herself alone), is expertly achieved. This belief drives the high-quality personal development opportunities that all pupils benefit from. Pupils hone their leadership skills through sports or subject leadership positions. The diverse enrichment offer includes ‘jam jar’ band room, choir, Attenborough club, book to film, as well as a wide range of sporting clubs. As well as the annual careers fair and university and apprenticeship fair, the school has a skilled careers adviser and hosts a wide range of well considered careers events. Students talk animatedly about the positive impact of their work experience opportunities. They are extremely well equipped to make informed decisions about their future.

Parmiter’s leadership

Trustees, governors, and leaders are highly skilled and knowledgeable in their roles. They share the same clear strategic vision. This ensures pupils achieve the high aspirations they have for them. Staff are extremely positive about the support they receive from leaders, particularly around their professional development and wellbeing. Parents are effusive about the school.