Lionheart School in Newport has been graded ‘Strong’ in 4 key areas following a full Ofsted inspection, with inspectors praising its inclusive ethos, calm environment and the transformational difference it is making to pupils’ lives on the Isle of Wight.
The inspection, carried out on 6th January 2026, found the school to be operating at a strong standard in attendance and behaviour, inclusion, leadership and governance, and personal development and wellbeing.
Safeguarding standards were also confirmed as being met, with inspectors stating that leaders have established an open culture in which safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.
Headteacher Andrew Hatherley has welcomed the outcome. He’s said:
“We are extremely proud of our strong grading under the revised Ofsted framework, which recognises the commitment of our staff and the resilience of our pupils.
“We are determined to build on this success by continuing to work closely with families, partners and the local community to ensure every young person leaves us with confidence, skills and hope for the future. We have achieved a lot in the past year since we became the Lionheart School and our rapid progress was highly recognised; I am very proud to be the Headteacher of the Lionheart School.”
Inspectors reported that many pupils arrive at the school with very low attendance or a history of non-attendance, but that the vast majority significantly improve their attendance after joining . Induction programmes are carefully designed to meet individual needs while promoting high levels of attendance.
Classrooms were described as calm and purposeful, with pupils demonstrating positive attitudes to learning. Inspectors found that pupils are kind and respectful, and that abuse or harassment is rarely seen due to the school’s strong culture of care .
The report highlights the school’s inclusive culture, noting that staff are committed to improving pupils’ life chances and quickly identify and address barriers to learning and wellbeing . Leaders were praised for using additional funding thoughtfully to support disadvantaged pupils, who make suitable progress from their starting points .
Leadership and governance were also recognised as strengths. Ofsted said leaders have a clear vision and high expectations, and that governors provide effective support and challenge . Staff told inspectors they are proud to work at the school and feel their wellbeing is thoughtfully considered .
The inspection found that pupils benefit from strong careers education and partnerships with local employers and colleges, alongside work experience opportunities that help raise aspirations . An extensive programme of trips, visits and clubs gives pupils experiences they may not otherwise have .
Lionheart School currently has 50 pupils on roll. Of these, 68% are eligible for free school meals, 28% have an education, health and care plan and 72% receive special educational needs support . The school supports pupils who have been permanently excluded or are at risk of exclusion from mainstream education .
While the school achieved a strong standard in several areas, Ofsted rated achievement and curriculum and teaching as meeting the expected standard . Inspectors said leaders should continue their work to ensure teaching is consistently effective across the full curriculum .
Overall, inspectors concluded that pupils enjoy attending Lionheart School, value the warmth and kindness of staff and are becoming increasingly confident and resilient as a result of the support they receive.
