Kingsley School

Kingsley School, located in Bideford, Devon, is a co-educational day and boarding institution catering for students aged 2 to 18. The school is registered with the Council for the Registration of Schools teaching dyslexic pupils and is operated by Kingsley Education Ltd. The current headmaster, Mr. Robert Pavis, has been in position since February 2022, while Mrs. Claudia Bickford-Smith serves as the chair of governors since June 2023. The school has a total enrollment of 434 pupils, including 77 boarders and 66 children in the early years setting.

The recent inspection conducted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate from November 7 to November 9, 2023, evaluated the school’s adherence to the Independent School Standards. The inspection team comprised five inspectors who engaged in various activities, including lesson observations, discussions with pupils and staff, and examination of pupils' work. The findings indicate that the school meets all relevant standards across several key areas.

Governance at Kingsley School is effective, with governors ensuring that leaders possess the necessary skills and knowledge to fulfill their responsibilities. The leadership team demonstrates a clear vision for the school, supported by a well-structured development plan that includes performance indicators for evaluating success. The school maintains a conscientious approach to risk assessment, ensuring that staff are aware of and follow established protocols. Compliance with equality legislation is evident, as the school has a suitable plan to accommodate disabled pupils.

The school provides comprehensive information to parents and prospective parents, including safeguarding and complaints policies, which are accessible on the school website. Regular communication is maintained through termly reports and parents' evenings, allowing for discussions about pupil progress. The school effectively addresses parental complaints, maintaining a log of actions taken in response to concerns.

In terms of safeguarding, the school has established robust arrangements that align with statutory guidance. Safeguarding leads are well-qualified and possess the authority to carry out their duties effectively. Staff and pupils are educated about online safety, and appropriate measures are in place to monitor and filter online activity. The school has a clear process for managing safeguarding concerns, ensuring that pupils feel safe and supported.

The quality of education at Kingsley School is commendable, with a recently introduced curriculum that includes a 'pathways course' designed to support academic lessons. While pupils generally make good progress and achieve above-average results at GCSE and A level, there are areas for improvement. Some teaching does not consistently challenge pupils, leading to lower levels of motivation and engagement in certain lessons. The school has implemented a new assessment and tracking system to monitor pupil progress, but its use among teaching staff is inconsistent.

Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) receive effective support, enabling them to make good progress alongside their peers. The provision for these pupils is well-organized, with regular reviews and modifications to support systems. Teaching assistants are deployed effectively to ensure targeted assistance for those in need. Additionally, pupils with English as an additional language benefit from small group lessons that enhance their fluency.

The school promotes a positive and inclusive ethos through its personal, social, health, and economic (PSHE) education program, which fosters self-confidence and moral understanding. Pupils are encouraged to engage in respectful interactions, and incidents of discriminatory language are addressed promptly. The management of behavior is generally effective, although there are inconsistencies in the senior school regarding behavior outside of lessons.

Pupils are actively involved in their learning and are encouraged to take on roles of responsibility, contributing to a sense of pride in their school community. The school offers a range of extracurricular activities, including outdoor pursuits and sustainability studies, which enhance pupils' social skills and teamwork. Boarding facilities are well-maintained, promoting independence and providing a supportive environment for boarders.

The careers program at Kingsley School is developing, with recent initiatives aimed at enhancing support for pupils in Years 7 to 9. While some pupils receive detailed guidance regarding their future pathways, others feel less supported. The school encourages pupils to engage in community service and charitable activities, fostering a sense of responsibility and social awareness.

Pupils learn about societal issues and economics through various programs, including work experience opportunities in Year 10 and Year 12. The school emphasizes the importance of understanding right and wrong from an early age, instilling values of sharing and cooperation. Through democratic processes, pupils participate in decision-making, contributing to improvements within the school environment.

Overall, Kingsley School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education that promotes the well-being and development of its pupils. The school meets all relevant standards, and while there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring consistent challenge in teaching and support for all pupils, the foundation for a positive educational experience is firmly established. The school’s ethos of learning, giving, being active, appreciating, and connecting underpins its approach to education, aiming to foster success and happiness for every pupil.