By Lewis Bramley

A secondary school has kept its “Good” Ofsted rating following its first inspection in six years.

Holcombe Grammar School, in Chatham, was given a glowing review by the education watchdog for the importance placed on a high-quality curriculum and its opportunities for pupils.

Inspectors praised the school’s ambition for all its students and determination to prepare them for the next stages of their lives, with many attending top universities and having high-profile careers.

They added: “Pupils are proud to attend their ‘rights respecting’ school. They experience an inclusive, welcoming and supportive environment at school.

“Pupils feel listened to and cared for. This helps most to feel happy and safe at school.

“The school’s motto of ‘transforming life chances’ is reflected in all that the school does.”

Teachers were also praised for providing pupils with an “excellent learning environment”, were said to be “real experts” in their subjects, and were trained to support those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) “effectively”.

The report, published this month, added: “As a result, pupils with SEND access the same curriculum as their peers and achieve well overall.”

However, inspectors did find, on occasion, students were “not learning the curriculum fully” and there needed to be better consistency in teaching, assessment and resources.

The school on Letchworth Avenue, which is part of the Thinking Schools Academy Trust, has said it is focused on improving and is confident in the plans it has in place to achieve this.

Head teacher Lee Preston added: “I am delighted to see that Ofsted recognises the hard work all of our staff put into ensuring that we provide a rich and inspiring education for our pupils.

“We nurture our pupils to become lifelong learners so they can continue to grow as they step out into the world beyond school, and it is wonderful to see the report reflect this.

“We look forward to continuing to develop and enhance our provision to continue to transform life chances and support all our pupils to excel.”

Holcombe Grammar School, formerly Chatham Grammar School, is a selective 11-18 boys' school with a mixed sixth form.