“A drive for improvement has continued, despite the current challenges” and “Quick actions have been taken” according to a 2021 Ofsted virtual monitoring visit to Thomas Bennett Community College.

Thomas Bennett Community College has risen to the challenges of all of the changes over the past year. 

Mr Smith, the Headteacher, has said

“I am so proud of all our staff, students, parents and carers who have continued to work together to ensure the best for our young people during the pandemic. I am extremely grateful for and proud of our whole community”.

The education of the students has continued without missing a beat. Teaching staff have continued teaching the curriculum online through Google Classroom, finding new and interesting ways to adapt and engage. 

Despite the distance between staff and students, Thomas Bennett has continued to grow its literacy programme through the use of digital and audio books as well beginning small group interventions, all through remote learning. Celebrations for World Book Day have taken place virtually. 

Ofsted also stated that “pupils can access remotely their full range of subjects” and that there are still “high expectations” for all students at Thomas Bennett. 

Thomas Bennett has continued to support the community that it serves, with every student and parent being contacted regularly for a check on well being. This communication has been “invaluable for the mental health of all affected by the current restrictions” according to Mr Smith; “human contact is so important in these challenging times.”

Stuart Smith 
Headteacher