The Blandford School, located in Blandford Forum, Dorset, has recently undergone an inspection on the 23rd and 24th of April 2024, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. This marks a significant improvement from the previous inspection, which rated the school as requiring improvement. The school is committed to its core values of respect, effort, attitude, and perseverance, which are integral to its educational approach. Leaders are dedicated to providing high-quality education to all students, actively working to address challenges faced by pupils, including those who are young carers.
The school excels in pastoral support, with staff making a concerted effort to understand their students, fostering positive relationships. High expectations for behavior are set, and the majority of students respond positively, contributing to a calm and orderly classroom environment. Students feel safe and are aware of whom to approach for help, with a clear understanding of bullying and confidence in the staff's commitment to addressing it.
A variety of extracurricular activities are available, including coding, debate, and climate clubs, which students engage with enthusiastically. The upcoming performance of School of Rock has generated excitement among pupils, and the success of the netball teams is a source of pride. However, participation in these activities is not as widespread as desired, indicating an area for potential growth. The student forum, led by sixth-form students, plays a vital role in school governance, having successfully implemented changes such as a new one-way system and adjustments to the school uniform.
The curriculum at The Blandford School is broad and ambitious, catering for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The key stage four curriculum allows students to study a comprehensive range of subjects that fulfill the requirements of the English Baccalaureate. The sixth form offers a diverse selection of academic and vocational courses, even when enrollment numbers are low. Recent improvements have been made to the curriculum, which is now well-structured and sequenced, particularly in the sixth form. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and effectively present information, enabling students to produce high-quality work.
While some subjects utilize assessment methods effectively to gauge student understanding, there are instances where the systematic checking of knowledge lacks precision. This can lead to gaps in understanding that are not promptly addressed, hindering students' readiness for new content. However, students with special educational needs receive excellent support, with the school quickly identifying additional needs and planning appropriate interventions.
The school is fostering a culture of reading, with a vibrant library and structured reading sessions that enhance students' understanding of diverse backgrounds. Staff are well-trained to support students struggling with reading, resulting in improved abilities and increased confidence.
Behavior and attitudes towards learning are generally positive, with most students attending regularly. Classrooms are typically calm, although occasional low-level disruptions occur that are not always managed swiftly. The school is focused on ensuring that all staff consistently address these disruptions to maintain a conducive learning environment.
Students are well-prepared for their future endeavors, with a robust careers provision linking subjects to potential career paths. The personal development curriculum enhances students' understanding of societal issues, promoting acceptance and respect for diversity. Governors are actively involved, providing support and challenge to the school, while staff benefit from high-quality professional development that aids in managing workloads and enhancing expertise.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all students. Areas for improvement include enhancing the use of assessment strategies to identify and address knowledge gaps, increasing participation in enrichment activities, and ensuring consistent management of low-level disruptions to optimize learning experiences for all students.
