This slightly larger than average-sized school opened its sixth form in 2009. A higher than average proportion of students are known to be eligible for free school meals. Almost two thirds of students speak English as an additional language. There are many different ethnic groups. Two of these, Indian and Black African, represent about 20% each of the school community. The proportion of students supported by school action plus or with a statement of special educational needs is twice the national average. The majority of needs are related to moderate learning or behaviour, emotional and social difficulties. A small number of students have hearing impairment. A new specialist unit for them will open in September 2012 when the school moves into its new building. Mobility is high; new arrivals (some of whom are refugees) often have limited English and/or experience of schooling. The school has many quality marks and awards, including the Inclusion Mark, the Cultural Diversity Diamond Award and Leading Edge status. It has specialist status for mathematics, computing and applied learning. The school meets the current government floor standard, which sets minimum expectations for students’ attainment and progress. A serious incident that occurred at the school since the previous education inspection has been investigated by the appropriate authorities and is now closed. Ofsted does Inspection report: Dormers Wells High School, 17–18 May 2012 4 of 14 not have the power to investigate incidents of this kind. The welfare provision in the school was evaluated against the regulations that are in place and inspection judgements are based on the evidence available at the time of the inspection.