The Burgate School And Sixth Form Centre
Ofsted inspections
The school was last inspected by Ofsted in May 2019: the inspection report judged the school to be 'Good' overall with 'Outstanding' features. Three inspection judgements were 'Outstanding': Effectiveness of leadership and management; Personal development, behaviour and welfare; and 16 to 19 study programmes. Two inspection judgements were 'Good': Quality of teaching, learning and assessment and Outcomes for pupils. Ofsted recognised how the board of trustees and staff work closely together which has resulted in a consistent and positive learning environment, where teaching is inspirational. The inspection also recognised that the school provides its students with a holistic and well-rounded education, where academic success and personal development are equally valued.
In November 2024, another inspection was taken; results are not yet given.
Staff
The previous headteacher, Celia Nicholls, first joined the school as a teacher in 1983, from Ansford School, Castle Cary, and became headteacher in 1988. She announced her resignation at the end of the 2009/10 academic year; after that David Pover was appointed as headteacher.
History
- 1957: Founded in January as a secondary modern school, under the name "Fordingbridge County Secondary School". Ralph Labdon, Headteacher.
- 1962: Name changed to "The Burgate County Secondary School".
- 1967: Ralph Labdon retires and is replaced by David Benfield.
- 1980: Following county reorganisation into the comprehensive system, the school re-opened in September as "The Burgate School" with comprehensive status.
- 1981: David Benfield retires as Headteacher, and is replaced by Alan Hollands.
- 1988: Alan Hollands is succeeded by Deputy Head Celia Nicholls. Deputy Head, Ian Kirby, also joined the school.
- 1994: New drama block and science facilities opened by Murray Walker.
- 1995: New sixth form centre opened by Esther Rantzen and Desmond Wilcox.
- 2000: Extension to the Sixth Form.
- 2006: School granted specialist status in Humanities (English, Geography and History).
- 2008: New Sixth Form building completed and opened by Esther Rantzen.
- 2010: David Pover is appointed as Headteacher.
- 2011: Academy Status granted and name changed to 'The Burgate School and Sixth Form'.