Lord Gowthorpe's Independent School

Lord Gowthorpe’s Independent School is an independent special school for pupils aged 11 to 16, most of whom have autism and/or social, emotional and mental health needs, and some of whom have moderate learning difficulties. This was a material change inspection commissioned by the Department for Education to consider the school’s request to increase its maximum pupil number from 25 to 45. Inspectors found that the school is likely to meet the relevant independent school standards if the change is implemented, with no significant concerns identified in the areas inspected. The proprietor has a clear vision and high expectations, and leadership and governance are effective. Safeguarding arrangements are strong, including a secure culture, thorough record-keeping and effective work with external professionals. Health and safety, fire safety, risk assessment and recruitment checks are robust, and the school has adapted its site, facilities and outdoor space carefully to accommodate more pupils. Recent appointments, including a new headteacher and additional teaching staff, are intended to support the planned expansion. The school’s premises, accessibility arrangements, supervision and single central record were all found to be suitable for the proposed increase in pupil numbers.

Strengths

• Clear proprietor vision supported by high expectations for staff and pupils
• Effective governing body that supports and challenges school leaders
• Strong safeguarding culture with thorough records and swift action on concerns
• Effective engagement with external agencies, medical professionals and parents
• Site and buildings maintained to a high standard
• Robust health and safety and fire safety arrangements
• Very thorough risk assessments tailored to pupils’ specific needs
• Accurate and well-audited single central record and recruitment checks
• Suitable toilet, washing, shower and changing facilities for the planned increase
• Well-considered teaching spaces with high-quality equipment
• Suitable and expanded outdoor space for physical education and socialising
• Accessibility plan and building adaptations that account for increased capacity
• Appropriate staff supervision across lessons, examinations and enrichment activities

In 2025–26, 0.0% of pupils at Lord Gowthorpe's Independent School were on SEN support (nationally 18.4%) and 100.0% had an education, health and care (EHC) plan (nationally 7.9%).

Source: Department for Education, Special educational needs in England (the 2025–26 school census). SEN support is extra help in school without an EHC plan. National figures are for all state-funded independent school schools. Counts are as published, with small numbers not hidden.

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What is Lord Gowthorpe's Independent School's Ofsted rating?

The latest Ofsted rating for Lord Gowthorpe's Independent School is Good, from an inspection in September 2026.

When was Lord Gowthorpe's Independent School last inspected by Ofsted?

Lord Gowthorpe's Independent School was last inspected in September 2026.

How many pupils does Lord Gowthorpe's Independent School have?

Lord Gowthorpe's Independent School has 24 pupils on roll.

What age range does Lord Gowthorpe's Independent School cover?

Lord Gowthorpe's Independent School for pupils aged 11 to 16.

Where is Lord Gowthorpe's Independent School?

Lord Gowthorpe's Independent School is at 45 Common Road, Dunnington, North Yorkshire, YO19 5PA.