MSN Sixth Form is celebrating after Ofsted judged it to be ‘outstanding’ while recognising its exceptional education and support for students.

Providing post-16 education for students from both Norton Hill and Somervale Schools, the sixth form offers a collaborative learning environment with access to extensive resources and high-quality teaching.

This summer was another stand-out year for exam results, continuing a trend from the last four years and improving on grades with 36 per cent of grades achieving A*-A, making it one of the top performing state schools in the South West. A total of 61 per cent of grades were A*-B, significantly above the national average of 45.7 per cent.

Progress measures also show students are making progress that is significantly above the national average, which was observed by Ofsted who commented on the high achievements of the students.

Ofsted observed that students in the sixth form demonstrate strong evaluative and analytical skills in their learning. The school upholds high 'sixth form expectations' to support students in their academic progress, providing extensive wider reading and tailored academic guidance for each subject.

As a result, students achieve outstanding outcomes and are well-prepared for their next steps after leaving sixth form.

Ofsted recognised the sixth form is able to provide an Outstanding education as well as fantastic extra-curricular opportunities in "a vast and exceptional enrichment programme" and support for students throughout their studies, providing exceptional provision for students. They were particularly impressed that 100 per cent of students achieved their chosen destination.

Ofsted further highlighted that the careers programme inspires pupils and students to make aspirational and well-informed decisions at key stages of their education. Sixth-form students demonstrate a broad understanding of higher education, apprenticeships, and employment opportunities. They show high aspirations when planning for the future and pursue advanced courses and training to achieve their goals.

Director of sixth form, Karen Ward, said: "This 'outstanding' Ofsted judgement is an endorsement of the hard work, energy, commitment and team spirit of students and teachers. We are proud that our unrelenting focus upon achieving the highest educational outcomes - and thereby increasing life chances - for all the young people we teach has been so clearly recognised.”

Applications are currently open for MSN Sixth Form for the September 2025 academic year, and the initial deadline for applications is the end of December. Applications will be welcomed after this date, but places on some courses may be limited.