Stowmarket transformation: Good or better in all areas

School has not been judged Good by Ofsted since 2006

Students, staff and families at Stowmarket High School are celebrating a milestone moment following an inspection from Ofsted in June. Stowmarket High is one of three secondary schools within the Kingfisher Schools Trust.

The school of 900 children on Onehouse Road was judged as Good in three of four areas, and Outstanding for Leadership and Management in a report shared with families and soon to be available on the Ofsted website.

You can read the report by clicking here.

Inspectors praised ‘leaders at all levels’, saying that ‘the school has made rapid improvements since the last inspection due to the intelligent and purposeful action taken’. The transformation at the school comes following a series of ‘Requires Improvement’ judgements, with the school not judged ‘Good’ by Ofsted for almost twenty years.

In its previous monitoring visit in 2024, Ofsted noted the significant changes that had occurred within the trust and the school, including a new improvement board, which were making a positive impact. Key to the improvements has been the appointment of Lucie Hernandez as Headteacher in September 2023. Ms Hernandez has overseen the turnaround alongside two new deputy headteachers and support from the academy trust. She was previously Deputy Head of a highly successful school in Middlesex.

Stowmarket High School headteacher, Lucie Hernandez

Inspectors pointed out strengths in teaching and in the behaviour and manners of the students, who ‘respond well to the school’s high expectations of behaviour and academic achievement’:

• ‘Pupils are happy at Stowmarket High School’
• ‘Pupils are courteous to visitors and staff. This behaviour ensures that there is a pleasant atmosphere around the school’
• Teachers ‘explain new learning clearly, work with pupils to make sure they understand, and give opportunities for pupils to show what they have learned’

Ms Hernandez commented:

‘I am particularly proud that our students were commended for their tolerance, respect, and kindness. These qualities are fundamental in shaping well-rounded individuals who contribute positively to society. When I joined Stowmarket High, my ambition was to ensure that every student would develop the confidence and resilience to be themselves. I now feel confident that this vision is reality.’

‘It is especially pleasing to see the recognition of our SEND provision. The report acknowledges the way we support all students to be understood, included, and to thrive in our school community.’

Craig Morrison, Chief Executive of Kingfisher Schools Trust, said:

‘The journey at Stowmarket has been remarkable and the community is confident in the school. It is fitting that the exceptional leadership of the team has been recognised, as the impact is huge.’

Ms Hernandez added:

‘This outcome reflects the unwavering dedication of our staff and the pride and determination demonstrated by our students each day. This collective commitment has enabled the school to progress at pace and with such purpose. It is a privilege to serve as the headteacher.’