Framlingham: Thomas Mills High School rated good by Ofsted

Initially a monitoring visit, Thomas Mills received its inspection in January, which was changed to a graded inspection, finding the school 'good' in all areas.

In November 2021, the school was rated 'inadequate' due to Ofsted's safeguarding concerns, with another visit happening in September 2022, finding the safeguarding 'effective'.

During their most recent visit however, Ofsted inspectors found that "pupils at the school feel safe" and that they "learn about potential safeguarding risks".

Students and staff at Thomas Mills High School were delighted with the result. Credit: Tom Cann (Image: Tom Cann)

The Ofsted report also noted that "pupils are very well-behaved in lessons and social time", and that they all "know they are expected to do well".

Phil Hurst, headteacher of Thomas Mills, said: "We're really pleased with the result.

"We all continue to be proud of our school and want to be a beacon of excellence.

"We understood in our November inspection that systems need to keep changing and moving on, and they noticed that in September."

Phil Hurst, headteacher at Thomas Mills High School. Credit: Thomas Mills High School (Image: Thomas Mills High School)

The school, which counts Ed Sheeran among its former students, with the superstar returning for a visit in December, was also praised for its curriculum, with the report finding that "leaders have created a curriculum that meets the breadth of the national curriculum".

The schools SEND plans are found to be "clear and useful" for pupils and adults follow the plans "carefully and ensure that pupils are supported to achieve well".

Mr Hurst continued: "The priority must continue to be the students at the school and their education, support and outcomes.

Thomas Mills High School received a Good by Ofsted. Credit: Charlotte Bond (Image: Charlotte Bond)

"It’s been a very busy year and the work and the support of the school community has been incredible."

Tom Turner, one of the senior students at the school, said: "We are encouraged to pursue our interested and we are assisted by teachers to push to higher goals.

"I'm proud to be a student at Thomas Mill High School."

Tom Turner meeting Ed Sheeran at Thomas Mills awards evening in December. Credit: Thomas Mills High School (Image: Thomas Mills High School/Adam Chittock)

Staff and students at Thomas Mills High School. Credit: Tom Cann (Image: Tom Cann)