College Park School, located in London, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection in October 2022. The leadership team is dedicated to ensuring that pupils reach their full potential, working closely with parents and caregivers to tailor educational plans to individual needs. Parents express high levels of satisfaction, with many feeling hopeful about their children's futures due to the school's support. The curriculum is designed to foster independence among students, incorporating cultural elements such as Black History Month into lessons. Opportunities for community engagement are abundant, with pupils participating in performances at prestigious venues like the Royal Albert Hall and gaining work experience in local businesses.
Staff members are well attuned to the needs of their pupils, particularly those with communication and interaction challenges, including autism spectrum disorder. They create a supportive classroom environment that helps reduce anxiety and encourages emotional expression. The school has established consistent routines that provide a sense of security for students, contributing to positive behavior and a safe learning atmosphere. Pupils feel confident that any instances of bullying would be promptly addressed by staff.
The school prioritizes the development of social and personal skills, particularly for those with special educational needs. The curriculum is structured into three pathways—informal, semi-formal, and formal—tailored to meet the diverse needs of the students. While the English and mathematics curricula are well-organized, there are areas for improvement in other subjects, where key knowledge is not always clearly defined. The informal pathway is still being developed, and some teaching activities require more careful planning to ensure effective learning outcomes.
Pupils engage in practical mathematics lessons that relate to real-life situations, such as shopping and café interactions. The school also emphasizes the importance of reading, with most pupils developing reliable reading skills. However, inconsistencies in phonics instruction have been noted, and leaders are addressing the need for staff training to enhance phonics teaching across the board.
The sixth form offers a curriculum that prepares students for adulthood, focusing on both academic subjects and essential life skills. Students gain valuable experience in various work-based opportunities, including exposure to the construction industry. The governing body is supportive and knowledgeable, while teachers are committed to providing high-quality education. However, some staff have expressed a desire for additional support in managing workload and student behavior.
Safeguarding measures at College Park School are effective, with well-trained staff who are vigilant in ensuring pupil safety. Communication among staff is strong, allowing for quick responses to any concerns. Pupils receive education on personal safety, including internet safety, and staff are proactive in identifying potential safeguarding issues.
To improve, the school needs to establish a more precise and ambitious curriculum across all subjects to enhance pupil achievement. Additionally, the approach to reading must be consistently implemented, with higher expectations set for all classes. Overall, College Park School continues to provide a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, with a commitment to ongoing improvement in educational practices.
