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Red Kite Learning Trust

Our school

Ofsted

Front School

Harrogate Grammar School’s inspection in 2026 recognised the school’s strong academic achievement, sixth form provision and the high-quality education, care and support provided to its pupils. As one of North Yorkshire’s largest secondary schools, serving more than 2,000 pupils, Harrogate Grammar School continues to demonstrate its ability to provide consistently high standards of education and support across a large and successful comprehensive school. 

Under Ofsted’s new inspection framework, a judgement of ‘expected standard’ means that a school is meeting the high standards expected nationally across all areas. It confirms that pupils are receiving the education, care and support they should expect. Harrogate Grammar School also achieved the higher ‘strong’ judgement for both Achievement and Sixth Form, recognising areas where inspectors found particularly effective practice. 

Ofsted Report


Neil Renton, Headteacher, said;

“We are delighted that this report recognises both the academic success of our pupils and the caring culture that underpins everything we do. We are particularly proud that inspectors recognised the ambitious next steps our students progress to because they achieve highly, the quality of our sixth form and the very high standards of behaviour across the school. 

“The new Ofsted framework rightly sets a high bar for schools, and we are pleased that inspectors found we are meeting those expectations while recognising areas of particular strength. We also know that great schools never stand still. We will continue to build on this success, with a particular focus on attendance, inclusion and strengthening the depth of learning within our personal development programme.”


Chair of Governors, added;

“The Ofsted report captures so clearly what takes place each and every day at the school. Harrogate Grammar School is indeed an extremely rewarding place to learn. Governors look forward to supporting and challenging the school so that we develop even further, pioneer and continue to deliver excellence for all.”


Chief Executive Officer of the Red Kite Learning Trust, Ian Tucker, said;

“We are very proud to see recognition for the strong outcomes in such a large and successful school. The report rightly notes how pupils enjoy their learning and feel safe, valued and well supported. I am extremely grateful for all the hard work from all involved in leading the school through such a rigorous and demanding inspection." 


Quotations from the OFSTED Inspection


“Pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities, achieve highly over time. They are exceptionally well prepared for national tests and examinations.” 

Every pupil moves on to appropriately ambitious next steps with support and guidance from the school.” 

Achievement in the sixth form is consistently above national averages, including for students with special educational needs and/or disabilities and those who face barriers to learning”. 

Leaders design ambitious study programmes that exceed national expectations 

Students articulate their learning with sophistication because teaching is consistently effective and teachers are subject experts.”   

Pupils’ behaviour is impressive in lessons and around school. Pupils manage their behaviour well and build positive, respectful relationships with each other and with staff.” 



“Pupils’ behaviour is of a very high standard”. 

Leaders promote high standards of behaviour through a culture of praise and recognition. As a result, pupils value their education and take pride in their work.” 

Teachers have strong subject knowledge which prepares pupils well for national tests and examinations.” 

Pupils enjoy a wider range of opportunities beyond lessons. This includes adventurous trips, locally, nationally and abroad.” 

Pupils know who to turn to if they need help, and skilled, caring staff, ensure pupils’ needs are met effectively” 


The following link explains Ofsted report cards for your child's education or childcare, including a video and guidance on what's changed from the old system.

Ofsted report cards


Ofsted Parent View - Give Ofsted your view on your child's school

Harrogate Grammar School is part of Red Kite Learning Trust, a charitable company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales with company number 7523507, registered office address: Red Kite Office, Pannal Ash Road, Harrogate, HG2 9PH