Pembury School, located in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, has been recognized for its effective educational practices and overall good performance. The recent inspection, conducted on October 22 and 23, 2024, confirmed that the school has successfully maintained the high standards established during its previous evaluation. The school fosters an engaging environment where pupils are actively involved in their learning experiences, both in and out of the classroom. This involvement cultivates a strong sense of curiosity and enjoyment among students, who are encouraged to tackle challenging tasks with the support of dedicated staff.
The school places a significant emphasis on developing leadership skills among its pupils. Students are given opportunities to participate in decision-making processes that affect their school life, including roles such as anti-bullying ambassadors. This approach not only empowers students but also prepares them to be responsible citizens within their community. The school’s commitment to nurturing proactive individuals is evident in its focus on encouraging pupils to reflect on their responsibilities in the broader world.
Breaktimes at Pembury School are designed to be active and enjoyable, with a variety of imaginative resources available for students to use. This thoughtful planning allows pupils to engage in creative play, enhancing their communication, negotiation, and teamwork skills. Additionally, the school features a new rainforest library, which has become a popular spot for students to immerse themselves in reading.
The school is aware of its strengths and has taken proactive steps to address areas for improvement identified in previous inspections. It maintains a realistic outlook on its goals, striving for continuous improvement while ensuring that staff workloads remain manageable. Pupils demonstrate strong academic achievement and are able to articulate their learning experiences across various subjects. The curriculum is designed to help students make connections in their learning, particularly through class projects that encourage the use of subject-specific vocabulary.
The teaching of reading at Pembury School is rigorous and effective, with a consistent approach to phonics that builds students' confidence and skills in reading and spelling. Those who require additional support are quickly identified and provided with the necessary resources to succeed. Writing is another area where pupils show great enthusiasm, with a curriculum that lays a solid foundation for accurate and fluent writing from an early age.
Teachers are attentive to the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, employing clear demonstrations and visual resources to enhance understanding. The school prioritizes creating a focused and purposeful learning environment, where positive behavior and concentration are the norms. However, there is a recognition that not all staff are fully skilled in assessing and responding to pupils' understanding, which is an area for further development.
The school also emphasizes the importance of pastoral care and emotional support, ensuring that pupils feel secure and valued. Attendance is closely monitored, and the school has implemented effective strategies to minimize absences. Pupils appreciate the diverse range of trips and activities offered, which enrich their educational experience. They take pride in leading assemblies on important issues, such as equality, reflecting the school’s commitment to fostering a sense of community and responsibility.
Overall, Pembury School has demonstrated its ability to provide a high-quality education while addressing the needs of its pupils. The school’s focus on continuous improvement, combined with its supportive environment, positions it well for future success.
