Grange Park School, located in Wrotham, Kent, has been recognized for its effective educational practices, particularly in supporting pupils with autism spectrum disorder. The recent inspection conducted on February 21 and 22, 2024, rated the school as good overall, with outstanding ratings in behavior and attitudes, personal development, and sixth-form provision. The school has a clear commitment to fostering a calm and orderly environment, which is appreciated by pupils. They receive tailored support that enhances their ability to manage their physical and emotional well-being, leading to exceptional self-control and dedication to their education.
The school aims for every pupil to achieve the best possible outcomes, ensuring clear pathways into further education or employment upon leaving. However, some pupils face challenges in their reading development due to a lack of precise support for those at an early stage of learning to read. Despite this, pupils have numerous opportunities for personal development, engaging in various trips, visits, and workshops that significantly impact their confidence and self-belief.
Grange Park School caters exclusively to pupils with autism spectrum disorder, many of whom have additional special educational needs. The staff is well-trained to understand and meet the diverse needs of each pupil, ensuring that the educational, health, and care plans are effectively implemented. This approach allows pupils to engage fully with both the academic curriculum and enriching experiences.
The curriculum is ambitious, offering a broad range of academic and vocational subjects, with clear learning pathways mapped out across subjects. While the school is refining its curriculum in some areas, teachers are experts in their subjects, and all pupils work towards GCSEs in key stage four. The sixth form builds on these achievements effectively.
Support for pupils who are beginning to learn to read is sensitive and constructive, helping to rebuild their confidence. However, the school acknowledges the need to develop greater expertise in phonics and reading instruction to ensure that all pupils can read effectively. This gap in phonological knowledge can hinder some pupils' access to the planned curriculum, impacting their overall achievement.
The personal development program at Grange Park School is transformative, focusing on social communication and emotional regulation. Each pupil develops a personal toolkit to enhance engagement and self-regulation, with opportunities to apply their learning in various contexts. The program supports pupils in becoming increasingly independent, particularly during school trips and visits, and continues into the sixth form, preparing them for future independence.
Pupils exhibit exceptionally positive behavior in lessons and throughout the school, motivated by the belief that staff have in them. They learn to recognize their needs for breaks or quiet moments, demonstrating self-regulation skills. The school’s commitment to safeguarding is effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
To improve, the school must enhance its expertise in phonics and reading instruction to provide precise support for all pupils learning to read. Addressing gaps in phonological knowledge will enable every pupil to access the curriculum fully and achieve their potential. Overall, Grange Park School is dedicated to providing a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils, fostering their growth and development in a nurturing environment.
