Southbank International School Kensington

Southbank International School, Kensington, is a co-educational day school located in London, originally founded as The American International School in 1979. The school moved to its current site in Kensington in 1992 and is governed by the Cognita Schools group. It serves pupils aged three to eleven and is divided into three sections: Early Childhood, Lower Primary, and Upper Primary. The school follows the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme, catering for a diverse student body that includes over 40 nationalities, with many pupils being multilingual.

Since the last inspection, the school has made significant improvements, including the appointment of a new deputy principal, digitization of the curriculum, and enhancements to its mathematics, writing, and science programs. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the school adapted by providing remote learning materials and reopening in phases, prioritizing the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and vulnerable pupils.

The school is committed to academic excellence while fostering a liberal ethos and promoting the values of the International Baccalaureate. It aims to provide a broad curriculum with a global perspective, emphasizing inquiry-based learning in a safe and supportive environment that celebrates diversity and promotes fairness, respect, and accountability.

The pupil population primarily consists of children from professional international families residing in central London. Assessment data indicates that the pupils' abilities are above average, with no pupils having an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan. The school has identified 19 pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), all of whom receive additional support. Additionally, 49 pupils are classified as having English as an additional language (EAL), with their needs addressed by classroom teachers and specialist EAL instructors.

The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) conducted a focused compliance inspection, which also included an educational quality inspection. The ISI is authorized to inspect schools that are members of associations forming the Independent Schools Council and report on their compliance with the Independent School Standards. The inspection assessed various aspects, including safeguarding, health and safety, staff suitability, premises, information provision, complaints handling, and leadership quality.

The key findings from the compliance inspection revealed that the school meets all the standards set forth in the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014 and the relevant requirements of the Early Years Foundation Stage statutory framework. The school has established effective measures to safeguard pupils, promote good behavior, prevent bullying, and ensure health and safety compliance. The school maintains appropriate staff suitability checks and keeps a register as required.

The quality of education provided at Southbank International School is commendable. The school's assessment framework confirms that teaching enables pupils to make good progress, supported by well-documented curriculum plans and effective behavior management strategies. Pupils receive relationships education, and the school has consulted parents to publish a written policy statement in line with statutory guidance.

The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted, fostering responsible and tolerant citizens. The school encourages pupils to engage in community service and develop a strong moral compass, which is evident in their behavior and interactions with peers.

The welfare, health, and safety of pupils are prioritized, with arrangements in place to safeguard their well-being. The school promotes good behavior, prevents bullying, and meets health and safety requirements, including fire safety and first aid provisions. The school maintains proper supervision of pupils and keeps accurate admission and attendance records.

The school has established a suitable disability access plan and provides appropriate facilities for pupils' medical and therapy needs. The premises are well-maintained, with adequate toilet and changing facilities, and suitable outdoor spaces for physical education and play.

In terms of information provision, the school publishes a range of information for parents, inspectors, and the Department for Education, including details about the school's ethos, curriculum, admission arrangements, behavior policies, and academic performance. The safeguarding policy is readily available on the school's website.

The complaints handling process is effective, with a clear three-stage procedure in place. Records of complaints and actions taken are maintained appropriately, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Leadership and management at Southbank International School demonstrate good skills and knowledge, fulfilling their responsibilities effectively. The proprietor ensures that the leadership team actively promotes the well-being of pupils and consistently meets the required standards.

The educational quality inspection highlighted the excellent academic achievements of pupils. They develop effective study skills and make strong progress from an early age, with particularly rapid progress observed among pupils with EAL. Pupils exhibit positive attitudes towards learning, are highly effective listeners, and demonstrate excellent social skills.

The quality of personal development among pupils is also excellent. They display high standards of behavior, a strong understanding of right and wrong, and a keen sense of responsibility. Pupils engage in collaborative projects, demonstrating effective teamwork and communication skills. They are encouraged to take initiative in their learning, fostering independence and critical thinking.

Pupils at Southbank International School are successful in various academic, sporting, and cultural endeavors. They participate in competitions and extracurricular activities, showcasing their talents and achievements. The school provides a wide range of opportunities for pupils to explore their interests and develop their skills.

Overall, Southbank International School, Kensington, is a thriving educational institution that meets regulatory compliance standards and provides a high-quality education. The school fosters an inclusive and supportive environment, promoting academic excellence and personal development among its diverse pupil population. The commitment to inquiry-based learning, community engagement, and the holistic development of pupils contributes to their success and well-being.