Kelmscott School, located in Walthamstow, London, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 14-15, 2020. The school is characterized by a welcoming atmosphere where both pupils and teachers take pride in their achievements. The commitment to the school’s motto of putting learning first is evident among the staff and students. The new headteacher and his team have established high expectations for all students, which is reflected in the implementation of two non-negotiable rules that have significantly improved behavior within the school.
Pupils demonstrate a strong focus on their studies, particularly in English and modern foreign languages, where the curriculum is carefully planned to ensure a logical progression of knowledge. Teachers design lessons that build on prior knowledge, enabling students to grasp more complex ideas effectively. During break times, students engage positively with one another, showcasing a sense of community and sensible behavior.
The school prioritizes the safety and well-being of its pupils. Leaders and staff work diligently to minimize risks, and pupils report that bullying is not a significant issue, with any incidents being addressed promptly. The presence of staff at school gates contributes to a calm start and end to the school day, and pupils feel comfortable discussing any safety concerns with trusted adults.
Leaders have a clear vision for the school and are aware of its strengths and areas for improvement. They work collaboratively to eliminate barriers to learning, ensuring that all pupils have the opportunity to reach their potential. The curriculum for Years 7 to 9 covers national curriculum subjects, with a focus on developing a deep understanding of concepts. In Years 10 and 11, pupils can choose from a wide range of options, including GCSEs in engineering and Latin, with guidance provided to align subject choices with future aspirations.
Subject planning is thorough, with clear goals for pupil learning. In modern foreign languages, for instance, the planning outlines how knowledge should develop over time. However, improvements are needed in the planning and teaching of mathematics and science. While there have been positive changes in mathematics, some teaching in science lacks the necessary focus to prepare pupils adequately for future learning, which can hinder their progress.
Pupils generally exhibit good behavior across most lessons, although there are challenges in science classes where some students may lose interest. This can disrupt learning and prevent pupils from achieving their best. Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is effective, allowing them to access the full curriculum and receive tailored assistance.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including musical productions and sports, and emphasizes the importance of personal development through a tutor program that covers mental health and citizenship. Parents and staff express satisfaction with the school’s leadership and the supportive environment fostered within the school community.
The safeguarding arrangements are robust, with leaders actively working to protect pupils and address any concerns swiftly. The personal, social, health, and economic education program is regularly updated to reflect the needs of pupils and the risks present in the community.
While pupils achieve well in most subjects, there is room for improvement in science and mathematics. Leaders should focus on enhancing teaching strategies to ensure that pupils build and deepen their knowledge effectively. Overall, Kelmscott School continues to provide a good educational experience, with a strong commitment to pupil development and well-being.
