Further Ofsted success as boarding rated “Good” across all areas
Boarders at Dallam School enjoy a positive boarding experience, feel safe, make good academic progress and benefit from strong pastoral support. That is the verdict of Ofsted inspectors following a boarding inspection carried out over three days in May 2026 (19th-21st).
Inspectors judged our boarding provision to be ‘good in all areas’ [1], recognising the improvements made since their last visit in January 2024.
Headteacher Steven Henneberry said:
“We are delighted that Ofsted has recognised the strength of our boarding provision and the dedication of our staff and students. Our boarding house is a vibrant, supportive community where young people feel they belong, developing confidence, independence and resilience while thriving both academically and socially.”
During the inspection, boarders spoke positively about life in the boarding house, saying they have trusted adults to turn to if they have worries or concerns and that friendships are a key aspect of their experience.
Inspectors also noted that students are listened to, have opportunities to shape decisions, and benefit from experiences that help them develop new skills and engage with the wider community, from football academy studies to taking part in events like parkrun. House parents were praised for acting in the best interests of young people.
The report also highlighted that:
– Young people work hard during prep sessions and achieve good academic outcomes.
– Parents speak positively about the boarding provision, with one parent saying: ‘It has given my child the independence we wanted in a safe and structured environment’.
– Boarding students develop socially and mature through their experiences at Dallam.
Steven Henneberry added:
“Our boarders bring a unique dimension to school life. They make Dallam a truly international and inclusive community. We will continue to build on this success, ensuring our boarders enjoy exceptional pastoral care, strong academic support and a wide range of enriching opportunities.
“Coming just weeks after Ofsted recognised the positive progress being made across the wider school, this judgement reflects our aim of ensuring every young person can truly belong here, learn here and thrive here,” added Steven.
Prospective parents and students are welcome to visit Dallam School to explore the boarding house and wider school community. Read the Ofsted report here:
[1] The three inspection areas scored Good by Ofsted are: Overall experiences and progress of children and young people; how well children and young people are helped and protected; and the effectiveness of leaders and managers.
