Simon Langton Girls’ Grammar School in Canterbury, Kent, has been inspected and continues to be rated as a good school. The recent ungraded inspection, conducted on 26 and 27 September 2023, indicated that the school might achieve an outstanding rating if a graded inspection were to take place now. The school is characterized by a strong sense of community and connection among pupils, who are inclusive, tolerant, and celebrate diversity. Sixth-form students take pride in their roles as Head Students, Prefects, and Form Guardians, fostering a supportive environment for younger pupils. This culture of mentorship contributes to calm and settled behavior throughout the school.
The school maintains high expectations for all students, emphasizing both academic achievement and personal development. Pupils are encouraged to voice their opinions and establish clubs and societies that reflect their interests. The curriculum is ambitious and designed to build knowledge and skills progressively as students advance through their education. It is inclusive of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Teachers are adept at adapting their teaching methods to support these students effectively.
In the classroom, the ambitious curriculum is successfully implemented. Staff possess strong subject knowledge, providing clear explanations that engage and motivate pupils. They utilize questioning techniques to assess understanding and encourage critical thinking. As a result, pupils are actively involved in their learning, demonstrating strong engagement and minimal disruption during lessons. The school’s academic outcomes are impressive, with pupils producing high-quality work and articulating their learning experiences confidently.
The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities that support the broader development of pupils. Through initiatives like the Intellectual Vision and Endeavour program, students can explore various career pathways from Year 8 onwards. This includes opportunities in fields such as medicine, law, and philosophy, allowing pupils to engage with visiting speakers and undertake research projects. The school also provides extensive cultural experiences, including music and drama opportunities, and offers courses in languages such as Mandarin and Japanese.
Leadership at Simon Langton Girls’ Grammar School is characterized by careful consideration and consultation with staff, pupils, and parents. Leaders reflect on their practices to ensure they have the desired impact and create a supportive environment for staff. They encourage innovation while being mindful of workload and well-being.
The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The inspection process involved discussions with various stakeholders, including the headteacher, senior leaders, teachers, and pupils, to assess the quality of education and the effectiveness of safeguarding measures.
Overall, Simon Langton Girls’ Grammar School demonstrates a commitment to academic excellence and the holistic development of its pupils. The positive school culture, ambitious curriculum, and strong leadership contribute to a thriving educational environment. The school is well-positioned for future success, with the potential to achieve an outstanding rating in its next graded inspection.
