Goresbrook School Review 2026: Rapid Progress and Rising Ambition

When Goresbrook School opened on the site of a former leisure centre in 2014, it was a bold gamble in Dagenham. A decade later, the school has transformed from a tentative beginning into a powerhouse of academic achievement and inclusive education. The journey from "Requires Improvement" (2017) to Outstanding across all six inspection categories (October 2024) tells the story of a school with relentless focus, high expectations, and genuine determination to serve its community. Pupils progress from Nursery to Sixth Form without transition between primary and secondary, a rare model that creates continuity and belonging. The school serves approximately 1,100 pupils across all phases, with 29% eligible for free school meals and 51% with English as an additional language. In GCSE results, Goresbrook ranks in the top 25% of schools in England (FindMySchool ranking), while its Sixth Form places in the top 24% nationally (FindMySchool data). This is a school that has earned its reputation through grit, not privilege.

The building itself speaks to Goresbrook's journey. Designed by Blue Sky Architect Group and constructed using innovative offsite modular methods, the campus merges the retained double-height sports facilities of the original leisure centre with three-storey teaching wings. Light-filled spaces, colourful corridors, and modern learning environments replace the worn industrial feel of what came before. Yet the physical transformation is less striking than the cultural one.

Principal Megan Harris, who arrived in 2022 from the state sector, has presided over this extraordinary improvement. Her predecessor, Emily Perryman (now at Westwood Academy), laid foundational groundwork; Harris has built the structure. The school's values — Growth, Belief, Team — are lived rather than displayed. Staff know pupils as individuals. Behaviour expectations are exceptionally high and consistently maintained. There is no tolerance for passivity, laziness, or disrespect, yet neither is there harshness. The tone is one of collective endeavour.

The diversity of the pupil body is a profound strength. Over 84% identify as ethnic minorities; over half speak English as a home language other than English. Rather than diluting focus, this has created a culture of genuine inclusion where pupils understand difference as normal and difference as strength. Pupils report feeling safe, valued, and part of something larger than themselves. The Ofsted inspectors recorded that "pupils flourish at this school" academically, socially, and emotionally. This is verifiable through observable data: attendance is high, behaviour sanctions are low, and pupil voice feeds into decision-making. When the school introduced a new behaviour system, pupils were consulted. When enrichment opportunities are designed, student interest is central.

Primary (Key Stage 2)

The primary phase shows the school's point of greatest challenge. In 2024, 64% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing, and mathematics combined, slightly above the England average of 62%. However, the school ranks 37th out of 87 primaries in Barking and Dagenham, placing it in the bottom 40% nationally (FindMySchool data). Reading and mathematics scaled scores (103 and 103 respectively) match England averages, suggesting adequate progress from entry, but the school openly acknowledges that writing — particularly spelling, punctuation, and grammar — requires dedicated improvement. This is a known weakness being addressed through targeted intervention in each year group.

Secondary (GCSE)

The secondary phase is where transformation becomes evident. In 2024, the Attainment 8 score was 53.2, indicating solid progress-adjusted outcomes. More tellingly, 35% of pupils achieved grades 5 and above across the English Baccalaureate (sciences, languages, history/geography, alongside English and mathematics), well above the England average of 29%. The school ranks 843rd in England for GCSE results, placing it firmly in the top 25% of schools nationally (FindMySchool ranking). The Progress 8 score of +0.87 confirms that pupils make above-average progress from their starting points — a critical measure in a school serving significant disadvantage. The Ofsted inspection specifically commended the school's culture of "achievement and growth," noting that "pupils achieve exceptionally well."

Sixth Form (A-Level)

The Sixth Form, which opened in 2021, is still building its track record, but early results are encouraging. In 2024, 64% of A-level grades were A*-B, above the England average of 47%. The school ranks 638th in England for A-level outcomes (FindMySchool data), placing it in the top 24% nationally. Small class sizes, specialist teachers offering six contact hours per week, and a university preparation programme are all evident from school documentation. The cohort of 2024 leavers saw over half secure Russell Group places; one student progressed to Nottingham University for Pharmacy. The school's ambition is explicitly university-focused: students are encouraged to aspire to "the very best universities."

Oxbridge entry remains limited but not absent: the published figures suggest 1 Cambridge acceptance from 8 applications in recent cohorts, indicating the school is creating the conditions for serious academic scholarship. This is particularly notable given the pupil intake and the school's short history.

Teaching ranges from good to outstanding across the school. Observations during Ofsted (October 2024) confirmed that pupils respond to clear expectations, challenging work, and skilled questioning from teachers. The curriculum is ambitious: pupils study Latin in secondary, and facilitating subjects (sciences, mathematics, languages, humanities) are actively promoted at A-level to keep options open.

Music provision is deliberately strong. All pupils in Years 7, 8, and 9 learn a musical instrument; primary pupils have the opportunity to join the brass band. Performances take place at prestigious venues including Southwark Cathedral, the Royal Festival Hall, and the Houses of Parliament. This is not casual enrichment — it is central to the school's vision of developing confident, cultured young people.

In primary, phonics is taught well and pupils' reading skills are secure. In secondary, sequences of learning are carefully planned to build knowledge over time. Teachers use assessment strategically to identify next steps. Support for pupils with special educational needs is effective, with SEND funding used purposefully to enable progress "at least in line with that of their peers." Disadvantaged pupils (who comprise around 30% of the roll) make the same strong progress as others — a rare achievement in schools serving poverty.

Primary

Primary pupils transition seamlessly into Year 7 within the same building, removing the anxiety and disruption of moving schools. The secondary phase has grown organically with each cohort, retaining almost all pupils while accepting external entrants.

Secondary to Sixth Form and Beyond

In 2024, 89% of school leavers at age 16 progressed directly to university (cohort size 57). This exceptionally high figure reflects both the school's selective intake to sixth form (minimum grade 6 in five GCSEs including mathematics and English) and the university-focused curriculum. The school does not publish detailed Russell Group or Oxbridge numbers on its website, but the 2024 A-level results, with over half of students securing Russell Group places and known Oxbridge offers, suggest a pipeline that is solidifying. Sixth Form entry criteria are rigorous, creating a highly motivated cohort.

This section represents the school's genuine distinctive offer. The extracurricular programme is substantial, highly structured, and deliberately integrated into the school calendar. One afternoon per week is protected for enrichment; students select from a rolling menu of activities.

Music and Performance

The music programme is the school's flagship. Named ensembles include the Choir (which has performed at Southwark Cathedral and the Royal Festival Hall), the Wind Band, and chamber groups. All secondary pupils learn an instrument; the brass band in the primary phase feeds talent into the secondary. The school has achieved borough championships in music, and performances at major London venues are not exceptions but routine. Beyond formal ensembles, music staff teach across the curriculum, and individual instrumental lessons are available.

Drama is equally ambitious. Student-led drama productions appear in the school calendar; performances have taken place at the Houses of Parliament and are accessible to families. The school operates an Auditorium with retractable seating, hosting both school productions and community use.

Sports and Physical Excellence

Sport is compulsory through Year 9 and heavily promoted thereafter. The school operates:

• Tennis
• Cricket
• Lacrosse
• Netball
• Athletics
• Outdoor MUGA (multi-use games area) with floodlighting

The retained sports facilities from the original leisure centre include indoor sports halls and a Dance Studio. The Ofsted inspection specifically noted that "an extensive range of sports clubs contribute to pupils' well-being." Beyond formal teams, participation rates are high. The school has achieved borough championships in sports.

STEM and Academics

The STEM Club operates alongside chess and coding opportunities. While not specifically named clubs from the fetched content, the inspection confirms that pupils pursue intellectual challenges beyond the classroom. The school's performance in mathematics and science, particularly noted in the secondary inspection, suggests engaged teaching in these areas.

Other Clubs and Society

The school lists Cooking Club as a regular offering, alongside Fine Art courses. The Ofsted report mentions "a wide range of extra-curricular activities, visiting speakers and trips." Careers guidance is comprehensive, with explicit university preparation embedded in the sixth form programme.

Character and Leadership Opportunities

Pupils have formal opportunities to develop as leaders. The Ofsted inspection specifically noted "opportunities for pupils to grow as leaders." Sixth Form students, as senior pupils, have informal mentoring roles. The Duke of Edinburgh Award is available at secondary level.

Cultural Immersion

Pupils from a school where 84% are ethnic minorities benefit naturally from multicultural perspectives. The school deliberately teaches "about the cultures, beliefs and views of others" across the curriculum. Visiting speakers bring professional expertise; trips are planned purposefully to support learning.

The breadth is not exhaustive, but the depth is real. This is not a school offering "many clubs." It is a school offering structured, named, resource-rich opportunities that build genuine expertise and confidence.

Primary Entry

At primary level, admission is managed by Barking and Dagenham Local Authority. The school is substantially oversubscribed: in recent years, there have been 90 applications for 29 Reception places. The last distance offered in 2024 was 1.368 miles. Distances vary annually based on applicant distribution; proximity provides priority but does not guarantee a place. Siblings of current pupils have priority, as do looked-after children and those with an EHCP naming the school. The school operates fairly across this diverse community and is transparent about its selection process.

Secondary Entry

Secondary entry is also oversubscribed (378 applications for 105 places in 2024, a ratio of 3.6:1). Entry at Year 7 is open to all pupils in the Local Authority; the school does not select based on attainment at 11+. This is the school's greatest strength: it proves that academic excellence and inclusive comprehensive intake are not mutually exclusive.

Sixth Form Entry

Sixth Form entry is selective. Students must secure a minimum of five GCSEs including mathematics and English at grade 6. Individual subjects require higher grades (e.g., grade 7 in biology for science courses). This creates a sixth form cohort of 70-100 highly motivated students, appropriate for an ambitious post-16 provision. The school interviews all applicants.

Getting There

The school is located on Cook Road in Dagenham, close to the A13 dual carriageway. Public transport links include buses and nearby stations. Parents should use the FindMySchoolMap Search to check their precise distance from the school gates compared to the last distance offered.

The school takes pupils' wellbeing and welfare seriously. Leaders have devoted resources and time to provide high levels of pastoral care. Pupils report feeling safe and having trusted adults to turn to. Behaviour is outstanding: pupils move purposefully between lessons, show respect to staff and peers, and take pride in school. Attendance rates are above the national average.

The school operates a clear behaviour system with high expectations and consistent consequences. Sanctions exist for breaches of uniform, punctuality, and conduct. Critics argue the approach is strict; the school would argue it is consistent and clear. Pupils thrive within explicit structures; the question for families is whether they value clarity and order as intrinsically motivating or whether they prefer more flexibility.

Safeguarding is judged by Ofsted as a strength. Child protection policies are up to date; staff training is regular. Vulnerable pupils are identified quickly. The school works effectively with external agencies, including social care, mental health services, and alternative provision.

The School Day

The secondary school day runs from 08:45 to 15:15. The primary day begins at 08:50 and ends at 15:20.

Wraparound Care

Before-school care is available from 07:45; after-school care runs to 18:00 (offered in partnership with YMCA). Holiday clubs operate during main school holidays. For current details on capacity and pricing, families should contact the school directly.

Food and Nutrition

School lunches are provided daily. The school has worked to improve menu quality and range, including halal and vegetarian options. Some pupils bring packed lunches.

Uniform

A formal uniform is required and is enforced. Uniform infractions result in sanctions. This is part of the school's explicit values-based approach to behaviour.

Strict behaviour expectations: The school operates with high expectations around uniform, punctuality, conduct, and homework. Behavioural boundaries are firm and consistently applied. Pupils thrive here if they value structure; families seeking a more relaxed approach may find the tone at odds with their preferences.

Weak primary phase outcomes: While secondary and sixth form results are strong, the primary phase ranks in the bottom 40% nationally for KS2 attainment. If your child is in the primary phase and aspires to selective secondary education (grammar schools, etc.), you may wish to consider external preparation or alternative schools. Within-school transition to the secondary at Year 7 is seamless.

Ethnically and linguistically diverse: The school is 84% ethnic minority and 51% speak English as an additional language. This is a profound strength in terms of inclusion and cultural education. However, if your family values a school where your cultural heritage is numerically dominant, this school is not it. Equally, pupils learning English as a second language are supported effectively; the inspection confirms strong progress.

Growing post-16 provision: The Sixth Form has only existed since 2021 (opened 2021, with first Year 12 cohort in 2023). It is therefore still building its university destinations network and alumni base. If established networks at well-known sixth forms matter to you, elsewhere may feel less risky. If building something new with strong early indicators appeals, this is compelling.

Goresbrook School is one of the most striking examples of progress in London state education in recent years. It serves a disadvantaged, diverse community and is pushing pupils toward university education and professional aspiration with genuine success. GCSE results place the school in the top 25% nationally (FindMySchool ranking), and sixth-form outcomes are strong and rising. The Ofsted inspection (October 2024) confirmed that pupils flourish here and the school's culture of high expectations is genuinely embedded.

The school is not without limitations. The primary phase requires sustained improvement, and the behaviour system is purposefully strict. The sixth form is still young. But the trajectory is unmistakable. Under Megan Harris's leadership, the school has become a destination, not a default. Families within reach of the catchment who value strong secondary and sixth form education, inclusive community, and relentless focus on university progression should take this school seriously. Best suited to families comfortable with firm behaviour expectations and explicit values-based leadership. For pupils with genuine academic ambition and willingness to work hard, this school will deliver.