Humphrey Perkins School
GOOD in all areas
We are delighted that Humphrey Perkins School in Barrow upon Soar has been identified as ‘Good’ in all areas following a two-day Ofsted inspection in April 2025.
Retaining the previous ‘Good’ judgement awarded in 2020, the most recent inspection report highlights the strength of the school’s provision across all four judgement criteria: Quality of Education, Behaviour and Attitudes, Personal Development and Leadership and Management.
A Good Quality of Education
Inspectors praised the curriculum and teaching, noting that “Humphrey Perkins School has high expectations of what all pupils will achieve.” They went on to celebrate the “challenging curriculum,” noting that it is “designed well to meet pupils’ aspirations.”
Ofsted also emphasised how subject content has been carefully sequenced, allowing students to build on their knowledge from lesson-to-lesson. “What pupils will learn in each subject has been carefully considered. Topics build clearly upon one another. Teachers present new ideas clearly and choose teaching activities that engage pupils in their learning,” Inspectors added.
The report also praised Humphrey Perkins’ strong focus on reading, with Inspectors recognising how they ensure, through tailored support, that all learners have a strong grasp of literacy. “Reading is a priority for the school,” Inspectors stated, before going on to assert that “Weaker readers benefit from targeted support” which allows them “to develop fluency and gain confidence.”
Moreover, through the Trust-wide Lionheart Canon, students have access to a diverse and engaging range of texts, allowing them to “develop their love of reading and appreciation of different cultures.”
Good Behaviour and Attitudes
The positive atmosphere throughout the school was acknowledged, with Inspectors highlighting the “warm relationships between pupils and staff.”
The calm and orderly environment was also recognised, with Inspectors writing: “Clear routines help to ensure that the school is orderly. Classrooms are typically calm, and learning is purposeful.”
Pupils were commended for their collaborative spirit, both in and out of lessons, with Inspectors noting that “they enjoy social times together and work collaboratively in lessons.”
Good Personal Development
The wide-ranging extracurricular provision was recognised as a key strength, with Ofsted highlighting the “numerous opportunities for pupils to enjoy new experiences,” – this includes international trips to Poland, Austria and Iceland and opportunities to participate in performing arts events and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Programme.
Inspectors noted the powerful impact of these experiences, saying: “Through these activities, pupils develop confidence.” This broad enrichment programme continues to support students in becoming well-rounded, confident individuals.
Good Leadership and Management
The senior team – led by Associate Principal Della Bartram and supported by Lionheart Educational Trust – was praised for its ongoing commitment to high standards and staff development.
Inspectors highlighted the positive and supportive environment created by leaders across the school, stating: “The trust and the school are united in their commitment to the quality of education that pupils receive.”
On the judgement, Associate Principal Della Bartram said:
We are proud that our school has been judged to be ‘Good’ in all areas by Ofsted. This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff, students and the wider school community.
We remain committed to providing an excellent education and creating an environment where every student can fulfil their potential. We will continue to build on this success, ensuring greater achievements in the future.
About the author
Lionheart Educational Trust