St Gabriel's School

The inspection report for St Gabriel’s School, conducted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate from April 30 to May 2, 2024, provides a comprehensive overview of the school's performance across various standards. The report highlights the effective governance and leadership at the school, noting that governors work closely with school leaders to plan for future development. Their strategic planning reflects the school's ethos and aims, including the introduction of co-education, while also considering potential unintended consequences.

The teaching approach at St Gabriel’s is consistent and effective, with clear communication of policies and guidance that foster supportive relationships between staff and pupils. This environment encourages pupils to engage deeply with their learning, enhancing their language skills across all subjects and promoting confident communication. The early years provision is particularly noteworthy, as children thrive in a resource-rich environment that supports learning through play. Staff demonstrate a strong understanding of child development, effectively adapting their planning to meet individual needs and extend children's knowledge and skills.

The curriculum is broad and well-supported by a variety of extracurricular activities, ensuring that pupils have diverse opportunities for learning and personal growth. Subject clinics and programs for sixth form activities, including the Higher Project Qualification and Extended Project Qualification, provide additional support and challenge, enabling most pupils to achieve their predicted grades and pursue higher education or alternative career paths.

The sports program at the school emphasizes the importance of a healthy lifestyle, while education on mental health is integrated into the personal, social, health, and economic (PSHE) curriculum. The school employs counselors to address individual pupil needs, and leaders recognize the necessity of refining assessment strategies in relationship and sex education to better meet pupils' understanding and needs.

Pupils are exposed to various cultures through well-planned humanities and English curriculums, fostering an appreciation for diversity. Economic education is incorporated into different contexts, preparing pupils for adult life. The school’s careers program is well-structured, helping pupils understand their aptitudes and interests, and providing one-on-one support for future career planning.

Health and safety practices are robust, with a strong culture of safeguarding established throughout the school. Staff are well-trained in supporting and reporting practices, ensuring that pupils feel safe and supported. The school has effective procedures for addressing pupil concerns, and pupils are aware of the various staff members they can approach for help.

The report confirms that all relevant standards regarding leadership, management, education quality, pupil well-being, social and economic education, and safeguarding are met. The recommended next steps for the school include enhancing the assessment and recording of pupils' learning in relationship and sex education.

In terms of leadership and management, the school conducts thorough annual reviews of its processes, ensuring that policies are regularly updated and effectively implemented. Governors actively engage with staff and pupils, incorporating feedback into development planning. The phased introduction of co-education is carefully managed, with a focus on equality in sports provision and curriculum development.

The curriculum is designed to support pupils' development across various subjects, with a strong emphasis on linguistic, mathematical, scientific, and creative skills. Teachers demonstrate good subject knowledge, facilitating practical skills development in subjects like science and mathematics. The extracurricular offerings, including clubs and activities, further enrich the curriculum and allow pupils to pursue their interests.

In the early years, staff create stimulating environments that promote creative learning through play. They adapt their planning based on observations of children's interests, ensuring that learning is engaging and relevant. The school effectively supports children with special educational needs, providing targeted assistance to help them progress.

The report also highlights the importance of pupils' physical and mental health, noting that the school provides a range of activities to promote well-being. The PSHE curriculum covers essential topics, including relationships education, and is designed to build pupils' knowledge progressively. The school implements a restorative approach to behavior management, encouraging pupils to reflect on their actions and understand the impact on others.

Pupils are actively involved in their community, participating in various initiatives that promote social responsibility. They learn about democracy and citizenship through practical experiences, such as mock trials and visits to local government institutions. The school council provides a platform for pupils to voice their opinions and effect change within the school.

The safeguarding procedures at St Gabriel’s are thorough, with regular training for staff and a clear understanding of responsibilities. The safeguarding team maintains meticulous records and collaborates with external agencies when necessary. The school prioritizes online safety and has appropriate measures in place to protect pupils in the digital environment.

The early years foundation stage is rated as outstanding, with leaders and staff demonstrating a strong commitment to continuous improvement. The curriculum is well-structured, and staff effectively monitor children's progress, ensuring that learning intentions are challenging and supportive. The environment fosters exploration and creativity, with staff actively engaging children in meaningful activities that enhance their development.

Overall, the inspection report reflects positively on St Gabriel’s School, highlighting its commitment to providing a high-quality education that supports the holistic development of its pupils. The school meets all relevant standards and is well-positioned for future growth and improvement.