Ofsted Information
Strong attendance and behaviour drive success at Boston Grammar School
Boston Grammar School is delighted to share its very positive Ofsted report, after inspectors visited at the end of April 2026. BGS's many strengths and successes were highlighted by the inspection team, whose verbal and written feedback is a cause for celebration. The recently introduced framework does not provide a single overall grade or judgement; instead, each area of provision is evaluated separately. Ofsted's new inspection framework means that the 'expected standard' is better than the previous 'good' grade. Curriculum and teaching, inclusion, leadership and governance, personal development and wellbeing and post 16 provision were judged as being at the 'expected standard' whilst achievement was seen as 'needs attention'. Attendance and behaviour were rated as 'strong standard', which is above the 'expected standard'.
The Ofsted inspectors were impressed by the fact that "Pupils' behaviour across the school is excellent. They move around the school calmly and purposefully, showing courtesy towards staff and each other. In lessons pupils are attentive, focused and keen to learn". The pro-active work undertaken by staff to further strengthen attendance, which is already well above national averages, was similarly seen as admirable.
BGS has been commended for having "designed an ambitious and well-sequenced curriculum that sets out clearly what pupils should learn and when". Equally important is the fact that Ofsted inspectors confirmed that "Teachers know pupils' needs well, including any specific barriers to learning pupils face due to additional needs or disadvantage".
An unwavering and relentlessly inclusive approach has been at the heart of BGS's provision for many years. Ofsted's comments are again a welcome verification that the school has established "an increasingly inclusive culture where staff understand pupils' needs and respond to them with care". This is central to the school's shared vision and mission. It is essential that pupils and staff are valued, respected, listened to and feel that they belong. The Ofsted inspectors stated that "Pupils are proud to attend Boston Grammar School....Pupils feel safe. They trust staff. Relationships between pupils and staff are warm and respectful, and pupils treat one another with kindness".
The school's leaders are also praised for having a "clear strategic direction and strong moral purpose.... Leaders draw on their understanding of the school's context to make decisions that are firmly rooted in what is best for pupils". BGS strives to serve our local community and provide opportunities for all our students and staff to fulfil their potential.
Inspectors affirmed that BGS has "a comprehensive personal development programme.....Pupils develop a broad understanding of fundamental British values such as democracy and tolerance". The school's careers provision, which ensures that pupils "move on successfully to their next stage of education, employment and / or training", received Ofsted's seal of approval too. The 'BGS 100' programme is seen as another strength, as are the numerous leadership opportunities and extracurricular activities available to pupils.
In the Sixth Form, "Students benefit from warm, positive relationships with staff. A wide range of enrichment, mentoring, leadership and cultural opportunities build their character and confidence". The Ofsted inspectors praised the curriculum in the Sixth Form, recognising that it is well planned and helps students to "achieve academically, develop confidence and prepare for adulthood". Our Sixth Form students are BGS's best ambassadors, who serve as exemplary role models and mentors for younger students.
Commenting on the inspection judgements and report card, Headteacher John McHenry said, "I am immensely proud of our pupils and staff, whose conscientious efforts have been recognised by the Ofsted inspectors. Boston Grammar School is a welcoming and inclusive community, with a real sense of belonging. Inspectors quite rightly praised pupils' brilliant behaviour and conduct, as well as our ambitious curriculum and effective teaching. Once again, Ofsted inspectors were impressed by the success of the school's 'golden principles' and our deeply embedded values of CARE - care, achievement, respect and excellence.
"It is very pleasing that the Ofsted inspectors were complimentary about the school's commitment to every pupil, especially those facing additional obstacles. We are determined to ensure that all pupils have the chance to flourish and succeed. I look forward to building on the school's achievements and continuing to drive the improvement work which Ofsted noted."
"I am grateful to students, colleagues, parents, Trustees and the wider community for their efforts and support over many years. It is only by working together in partnership that we can provide an excellent education and prepare pupils for life in modern Britain and beyond".
Emma Woods, Chair of Trustees, stated, "The report recognises many of the strengths that make Boston Grammar School a special place to learn and grow. We are particularly proud that Inspectors found our pupils to be proud of the rich heritage of their school, that behaviour is exceptional, attendance is strong and that pupils benefit from a caring, inclusive environment where they feel safe, respected and supported.
The report highlights the strengths of the school's culture, values and the extensive opportunities available through enrichment, leadership and personal development. None of this would be possible without the commitment of all staff to meeting the needs of pupils and as Trustees we are delighted that the Inspectors recognised the positive relationships that exist throughout the school."