Pride and positivity after inspection at The Bolsover School
Proud staff and pupils at The Bolsover School are pleased to share the overwhelmingly positive outcome of a recent Ofsted inspection which saw a school that ‘lives its key values and aims for ‘nothing but the best’ for all pupils’.
The inspection, in November 2025, was one of the first in the country to be completed under a new Ofsted framework. Overall inspection grades are no longer given. But the team noted secure educational provision at The Bolsover School and issued a report which details how the school is meeting the ‘expected standard’ across 6 main inspection areas.
The Bolsover School is part of Redhill Academy Trust, a successful multi
academy trust now comprising 20 academies across Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire.
Inspectors visited lessons, looked at pupils’ work and spoke to a wide range of stakeholders including pupils, parents, teachers, leaders and governors. Their resulting report observes a school with a ‘strong culture of respect’ where pupils say they are ‘safe and happy’. It reads: “Pupils are known and celebrated as individuals, they are very well cared for,” adding: “Pupils’ positive attitudes are nurtured. These attitudes contribute to a safe and calm environment.”
Achievement and attendance were said to have improved, with attendance rates and Key Stage 4 exam results both being close to the national average. “Current pupils at the school are gaining secure knowledge, understanding and skills across all subjects,” the report said. “They are rightly proud of their achievements.”
School leaders were praised for being ‘ambitious’ for all pupils, including those who are disadvantaged and have special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Inspectors said: “They lead with a clear moral purpose. They ensure that the school's values are lived daily. Leaders have consistently high expectations of staff and pupils.”
Staff morale was described as ‘positive’, with support around professional development, workload and well-being underpinning their effectiveness in the classroom. “There is a genuine team spirit among staff. Staff are proud to work at the school,” the report notes.
On curriculum and teaching, Ofsted observed that ‘pupils engage well in lessons’ and ‘most enjoy their learning’. They commended teachers for being knowledgeable about their subjects, explaining concepts clearly and building on previous learning. The Trust’s ‘teaching and learning fundamentals’ approach, which guides lessons, was said to be used well.
Personal development was seen as another strength of the school, with all pupils benefitting from a ‘well-thought-through’ programme including ‘a range of extra-curricular, 'co-curricular' opportunities through the school's 'Curriculum Plus' offer.’
The report emphasises that pupils are ‘prepared well for life in modern Britain’. It explains: “Pupils gain an understanding of fundamental British values such as democracy and the rule of law. They learn and appreciate the importance of respecting difference and fostering equality.”
Careers guidance was also recognised as being effective, with pupils leaving school ‘well prepared for their next steps in education, training and employment.’
Inspectors concluded: “Pupils value their school pledges to be trustworthy, brave and successful individuals.”
Andrew Burns, Chief Executive of Redhill Academy Trust, commented: “This excellent report reflects the strong contribution The Bolsover School makes to its students and parents, and the local community. It is particularly pleasing as we move into the planning phase for opening the Trust’s Post-16 Free School, North Derbyshire University Academy, which will further enhance the opportunities for young people in the area.”
Steph Spence, Head of School, said: “We are absolutely thrilled that this inspection report recognises the unwavering commitment to our young people within The Bolsover School community. The report highlights so many positive aspects of our pupils’ achievements and character, and we could not be prouder of them.
Matthew Hall, Executive Headteacher, said: “We are incredibly proud that this inspection recognises the strong culture, high expectations and caring community at The Bolsover School. This report reflects the hard work of our staff, the ambition of our pupils and the unwavering support of our families. We remain committed to providing ‘nothing but the best’ for every young person in our care.”