Laurel Park School Celebrates ‘Good’ Ofsted Rating Across All Areas

Laurel Park School is celebrating a major achievement after receiving a ‘Good’ rating in all areas during its first Ofsted inspection. The secondary school, which opened its doors in September 2023, was inspected in November 2024 and was praised for its strong vision, quality of education, and commitment to student success.

Under the new Ofsted inspection framework, schools are evaluated in specific subcategories rather than receiving an overall rating. Laurel Park was rated ‘Good’ across all areas, including Quality of Education, Behaviour and Attitudes, Personal Development, Leadership and Management, and Sixth Form Provision.

Headteacher Adele Christofi expressed her pride in the school’s success, stating: “Receiving a ‘Good’ rating in all areas is a significant moment for us. I am grateful to our teachers, staff, parents, and students, who have shown great dedication in making our school a place of ambition and excellence.”

Inspectors highlighted the school’s rapid progress since its opening, noting that both leadership and student engagement have played a crucial role in its development. The report emphasized that Laurel Park fosters high expectations and an ambitious culture, offering a broad and inclusive curriculum that ensures quality education for all students, including those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

The report also praised students’ work in their books, stating: “The work in students’ books demonstrates that they are progressing in line with the planned curriculum and producing high-quality work.”
It further highlighted the positive classroom environment and the encouragement students receive to succeed.

Behaviour at Laurel Park was described as ‘calm and orderly,’ with well-established routines and clear expectations. Students were commended for their respectful attitudes, with inspectors noting that “students behave very well” and describing school rules as “firm but fair.” Reward systems and ceremonies were recognized as key contributors to reinforcing these values.

The newly launched Sixth Form, which opened in September 2024, also made a strong impression. Inspectors noted that “students show great enthusiasm for learning and the opportunities available to them.” The vocational focus of the Sixth Form has been well received by students.

Oktay Şahbaz

Commitment to the Success of Ethnic Minority Students

Laurel Park School has demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting the academic success of ethnic minority students. As part of this initiative, it became the first school in London and the UK to organize a conference on the academic achievements of Turkish-speaking students. To lead this effort, the school appointed experienced educator Oktay Şahbaz as Assistant Headteacher.

Turkish and Kurdish Students’ Academic Success Conference

On July 10, 2024, Laurel Park School in Arnos Grove, London, hosted an important conference focusing on the educational challenges faced by Turkish and Kurdish students in the city. The event brought together community leaders, educators, policymakers, and school staff from the Enfield area to promote equality and inclusion in education.

The conference identified barriers affecting the academic success of Turkish and Kurdish students and discussed strategies to overcome them. Organizers thanked all attendees and emphasized that long-term commitment and collaboration are essential to achieving progress.

A Bright Future Ahead

Chair of Governors Tom Mauntner described the inspection outcome as evidence of the school’s remarkable progress. Looking ahead, Laurel Park aims to achieve even greater success.

The full Ofsted report is available at www.laurelparkschool.co.uk/ofsted.