Prestigious Newport boarding school praised in Ofsted inspection
Inspectors said staff have built “positive and trusting relationships” with boarders.
A Newport boarding school has been praised by Ofsted during a recent inspection.
Haberdashers’ Adams has retained its ‘good’ rating for boarding after an Ofsted inspection found pupils feel “happy and safe” and benefit from strong relationships with staff.
Inspectors visited the Newport grammar school in February, and judged the boarding provision to be good across all areas, including pupils’ experiences, safeguarding, and leadership.
Boarders told inspectors they enjoy boarding life and feel well supported, with staff described as building “positive and trusting relationships”. Inspectors noted that pupils develop independence through daily routines involving personal care, homework and helping peers.
The report highlights the school’s work to promote diversity, with celebrations such as Diwali and Lunar New Year helping pupils learn about different cultures.
Staff were praised for their understanding of pupils’ health needs, with safe medication systems and recent anaphylaxis training in place.
Inspectors did identify several areas for improvement - some boarders and parents raised concerns about limited food choices, with a small number of children having chosen not to eat at the school in the evenings.
“Some boarders find the choices limited… Boarders from different cultural backgrounds have asked for a wider range of foods,” the report states.
On two occasions, parents were not informed that their child had attended a trip, leaving them unsure of their child’s whereabouts.
Safeguarding arrangements were found to be strong, with staff confident in reporting concerns and leaders ensuring all required recruitment checks are completed before staff start work.
Leaders were praised for high expectations and improved staff supervision, as well as better communication with families. The report states a new hybrid parents’ evening model has made it easier for parents living abroad to stay involved in their child’s education.
The full report is available to view online online at eports.ofsted.gov.uk/provider/1/SC020589
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