St Lawrence College

St. Lawrence College Senior School, located in Ramsgate, Kent, is an independent co-educational institution that has been operational since 1879. Originally established as South-Eastern College, it adopted its current name in 1906 and became fully co-educational in 1983. The school operates under a charitable trust and is governed by a board known as the Council. The headmaster, Mr. Barney Durrant, has been in position since April 2020, and the school has seen changes in its governance structure, including the appointment of a new chair and two deputy governors since the last inspection.

The school aims to provide a holistic education that not only focuses on academic excellence but also fosters the development of essential life skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and flexibility. This approach is rooted in a Christian ethos that emphasizes care and compassion for all students. The student body is diverse, with a significant proportion coming from professional and business families in the local area, as well as a quarter of pupils from international backgrounds, representing over twenty-five nationalities. The school caters to a range of educational needs, with 141 pupils identified as having special educational needs and/or disabilities, and 94 pupils for whom English is an additional language.

The regulatory compliance inspection conducted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate confirmed that St. Lawrence College meets all required standards, including those related to the quality of education, welfare, health, and safety of pupils, as well as the suitability of staff. The school’s GCSE and A-level results from 2018 to 2021 indicate that pupils make good progress, with teaching practices that support effective learning. The curriculum is well-documented and covers a broad range of subjects, ensuring that pupils receive a comprehensive education.

The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted, with a focus on fostering responsible and tolerant citizens. The school encourages pupil participation in decision-making processes, and the prefect system is effectively managed. The welfare and safety of pupils are prioritized, with robust safeguarding measures in place, including effective behavior management and health and safety protocols.

The school has established a suitable induction process for new boarders and provides adequate medical and health care, as well as opportunities for social interaction and extracurricular activities. The boarding environment is supportive, with trained staff ensuring that the needs of all boarders are met. The school maintains a register to ensure the suitability of staff and supply staff, and visitors to boarding accommodations are appropriately supervised.

The premises are well-maintained, providing suitable facilities for pupils, including adequate toilet and changing facilities, as well as outdoor spaces for physical education. The school publishes a range of information for parents and stakeholders, including details about its ethos, curriculum, and policies regarding admissions, behavior, and health and safety. The complaints procedure is clearly outlined, and parental complaints are handled effectively through a structured process.

The educational quality inspection highlighted the good academic achievements of pupils, noting their strong communication skills and ability to apply knowledge effectively. Pupils are engaged and motivated learners, often exceeding expectations in their academic performance. The school provides a wide range of extracurricular activities that contribute to pupils' personal development, fostering confidence, resilience, and a sense of community.

Pupils demonstrate a strong understanding of their responsibilities and actively participate in school life, taking on roles of leadership and mentorship. They engage in community service and fundraising activities, reflecting the school’s commitment to social responsibility. The diverse cultural backgrounds of pupils are celebrated, and the school promotes an inclusive environment where all students feel valued and respected.

The quality of personal development among pupils is excellent, with a strong emphasis on self-understanding and decision-making. Pupils express clear aspirations for their futures and demonstrate a commitment to achieving their goals. The supportive community within the school, particularly in the boarding houses, fosters a sense of belonging and encourages pupils to take initiative in their learning and personal growth.

Overall, St. Lawrence College Senior School provides a nurturing and challenging environment that promotes academic success and personal development. The school’s commitment to holistic education, combined with its strong Christian ethos, ensures that pupils are well-prepared for their future endeavors, both academically and socially. The positive relationships among pupils, staff, and the wider community contribute to a vibrant school culture that values diversity, respect, and collaboration.