St James Senior Boys' School

St James Senior Boys' School is an independent institution located in Ashford, Surrey, catering for boys aged 11 to 18. The school operates under a single governing body that also oversees the associated preparatory and senior girls' schools. The school is structured into three sections: a lower school for Years 7 and 8, an upper school for Years 9 to 11, and a sixth form. Since the last inspection, the school has made significant changes, including the closure of its boarding provision and the addition of new facilities such as a design and technology workshop and sports pitches.

The school's mission is to cultivate open-hearted young men who can lead fulfilling lives dedicated to serving others. It emphasizes the development of good character through the instillation of moral and ethical values, alongside training in self-awareness and mindfulness. The student body is diverse, with pupils coming from various ethnic backgrounds within a 15-mile radius of the school. The academic ability of the pupils is generally average, with a notable number receiving additional support for special educational needs and disabilities. The school has identified several pupils with specific learning difficulties and provides tailored support to ensure their success.

The regulatory compliance inspection conducted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate revealed that the school meets almost all required standards but identified areas needing improvement. The inspection focused on various aspects, including the quality of education, spiritual and moral development, welfare and safety, staff suitability, premises, information provision, complaints handling, and leadership quality. The findings indicated that while the school excels in many areas, it must address specific deficiencies, particularly in safeguarding practices and staff recruitment processes.

In terms of educational quality, the school has demonstrated strong academic performance, with GCSE results consistently above the national average for maintained schools. A-level results have also been commendable, reflecting the effectiveness of the curriculum and teaching methods. The school has a documented curriculum that supports pupil progress and is complemented by effective behavior management strategies. The assessment framework in place allows for the monitoring of pupil performance, although there are recommendations for enhancing the consistency of feedback provided to students.

The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted, fostering responsible citizenship and tolerance. The school has established a positive environment where good behavior is encouraged, and bullying is addressed proactively. Health and safety measures are in place, including first aid provisions and risk assessments, although some aspects of safeguarding require immediate attention to ensure compliance with statutory guidance.

The inspection also highlighted the importance of staff suitability checks, noting that while the school conducts appropriate checks for supply staff, there are lapses in verifying the identity and qualifications of permanent staff. The single central register of appointments lacks comprehensive records, necessitating immediate corrective actions.

The school's premises are well-maintained, providing suitable facilities for pupils' needs, including adequate toilet and changing facilities. The outdoor spaces are appropriate for physical education and recreational activities. The school effectively communicates essential information to parents, including details about the curriculum, admissions, and health and safety policies. The complaints procedure is structured and allows for effective resolution of parental concerns.

Leadership and management at the school have been identified as areas needing improvement. The proprietor must ensure that leadership demonstrates the necessary skills and knowledge to fulfill responsibilities effectively, particularly in recruitment processes. The school has made strides in promoting a positive learning environment, but further development is required to ensure that all standards are consistently met.

The educational quality inspection emphasized the good academic achievements of pupils, who exhibit a positive attitude towards learning. Participation in sports is high, with pupils achieving notable success in various competitions. However, there is a need to strengthen the application of information and communication technology skills across the curriculum to support independent learning.

Pupils' personal development is regarded as excellent, with high levels of respect and self-awareness fostered through the school's philosophy. The supportive relationships between pupils and staff contribute to a positive learning atmosphere, encouraging pupils to take risks in their learning and develop their communication skills. The school promotes a strong sense of community, with pupils actively engaging in activities that benefit others, both within the school and the wider community.

Overall, St James Senior Boys' School is committed to developing well-rounded individuals who are prepared to contribute positively to society. The school has made significant progress since the last inspection, but it must address specific areas of concern to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and to enhance the overall quality of education provided to its pupils. The dedication of the staff and the supportive environment fostered within the school are key strengths that contribute to the positive experiences of the pupils.