Our Current Ofsted Position
Handsworth Grange Community Sports College received its latest Ofsted report following the inspection in June 2025, which recognises significant improvements in behaviour, personal development, and the overall school culture.
The previous inspection in November 2022 found the school’s overall effectiveness required improvement, citing concerns around social-time behaviour, personal development, and leadership implementation of policies. The latest report shows clear progress, particularly in the way pupils behave, feel safe, and engage positively with school life.
What’s improved since the last report?
- Behaviour and attitudes have moved from “Requires Improvement” to “Good.” Inspectors noted that lessons are now calm, social times are much more settled, and pupils feel supported by staff.
- Personal development has also improved from “Requires Improvement” to “Good.” Pupils benefit from well-planned personal, social, and health education, are increasingly aware of different cultures and beliefs, and receive strong careers guidance.
- Safeguarding remains effective. Pupils report feeling safe and know where to get support when needed.
- Wider enrichment opportunities have been expanded. Clubs, trips, and activities – including those supporting young carers and disadvantaged pupils – are more accessible than ever, with more scheduled during lunchtimes.
- SEND support is stronger and more consistent. Pupils with additional needs are now better identified, supported, and achieving more highly than before.
These improvements reflect the hard work of staff, the strength of leadership, and the resilience of pupils over the last 18 months. The new leadership team, established in 2023, has worked with Minerva Learning Trust to stabilise the school, raise expectations, and restore confidence.
What still needs to improve?
The report points out that while the curriculum is more ambitious, it is not yet consistently implemented. Pupils’ achievement in external tests remains too low, especially for disadvantaged pupils. Literacy and vocabulary development are still in the early stages, and attendance for some groups remains a challenge.
The Trust Board’s statement:
“We are proud that Ofsted has recognised the real and meaningful improvements made at Handsworth Grange. Behaviour, personal development, and the school culture are in a much stronger place thanks to the tireless efforts of Suzy Mattock, her leadership team, the school's governing board and all the staff. HG has been turned around in many respects – and this reflects the dedication and teamwork across the whole school community.”
However, the Board made it clear that this is not the end of the journey:
“We need to go all out now to shift the curriculum and ensure pupils in Years 7 to 11 make the strong progress they are capable of. This will be a team effort, and we will support the leadership and staff every step of the way. Together, we will ensure every child achieves their very best.”
The Board added:
“We are moving forward positively. There are many strengths and positive here at Handsworth, and we are determined to build on this strong platform for the benefit of all our pupils.”
Next Steps
Over the coming year, Handsworth Grange will:
- Embed the new curriculum more consistently across all subjects.
- Strengthen literacy and vocabulary teaching to improve pupil outcomes.
- Continue to drive up attendance, especially for disadvantaged pupils.
- Maintain the improved behaviour and school culture while focusing on academic progress.
The school and Trust remain fully committed to ensuring every pupil thrives in a safe, ambitious, and supportive environment.
