Whitfield Aspen School, located in Dover, Kent, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 11-12, 2019. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils feel proud, happy, and safe. They engage in a variety of activities, including trips to art galleries and wildlife parks, which enrich their educational experience. The commitment of the staff is evident, as they provide expert support in lessons, encouraging pupils to strive for their best. The school emphasizes inclusivity, ensuring that all pupils, particularly those with special educational needs and disabilities, learn together in a supportive setting. This is exemplified through initiatives like the whole-school assemblies where pupils learn sign language, promoting kindness and respect among students.
Pupil behavior is commendable, with students listening attentively during lessons and enjoying social interactions during breaks. Reports of bullying are rare, and when incidents do occur, staff are proactive in addressing them. The school’s dedicated staff engage all pupils in stimulating activities, ensuring that those with special educational needs are integrated into mainstream classes. The school maintains a structured environment where rules are understood and followed, resulting in minimal disruption during lessons. This allows teachers to deliver their planned curriculum effectively.
From the outset, pupils in Reception Year are introduced to phonics, laying a strong foundation for their literacy skills. By the end of Reception, most pupils demonstrate good behavior and can read basic sentences, preparing them well for Year 1. The leadership team has carefully planned the reading curriculum, ensuring that pupils develop a keen interest in reading and can discuss their favorite authors. In mathematics, teachers possess strong subject knowledge and effectively explain concepts, enhancing pupils' understanding.
While the school excels in English and mathematics, there is a need for improvement in other subjects such as history and science. Leaders have mapped out the skills to be taught but have yet to finalize the specific knowledge and its sequencing. This has led to some pupils struggling to retain important information in these subjects. Leaders are aware of this issue and are actively working with curriculum leaders to address it.
Teachers are well-equipped to ensure that pupils grasp the material being taught. They encourage participation in discussions, allowing pupils to learn from one another. The school provides valuable training for non-specialist teachers to enhance their subject knowledge. The leadership team is committed to supporting staff, considering their workload when implementing policies, and fostering a collaborative work environment.
Assessment of pupil learning occurs three times a year, enabling teachers to monitor progress and provide additional support when necessary. This approach has proven effective, particularly for disadvantaged pupils, ensuring they can catch up with their peers. Beyond academics, the school promotes spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development through various activities, including visits to art galleries and participation in religious festivals.
The school has a dedicated provision for pupils with special educational needs, offering expert support tailored to their needs. This inclusive approach ensures that all pupils, regardless of their background, learn and socialize together effectively. Overall, Whitfield Aspen School provides a comprehensive curriculum that prepares pupils well for their transition to secondary education. The safeguarding measures in place are robust, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks, ensuring a safe environment for all students. The school continues to strive for improvement, particularly in the sequencing of knowledge across all subjects, to enhance the educational experience for every pupil.
