St Helen and St Katharine

St Helen and St Katharine School is an independent day school located in Abingdon, Oxfordshire, established in 1938. It is a single-sex institution for female pupils, catering for students aged 9 to 18 across four sections: junior school (Years 5 and 6), lower school (Years 7 and 8), middle school (Years 9 to 11), and sixth form (Years 12 and 13). The school operates on a 22-acre site and is overseen by a board of trustees, functioning as a registered charity.

Since the last inspection, the school has made significant developments, including the construction of a new sixth-form center, set to be completed in autumn 2022. The curriculum has been enhanced to include computer science and the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), alongside an increased integration of technology in teaching. Leadership roles have been restructured, and there has been a notable expansion in partnership work.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the school remained open for children of key workers and provided online remote learning for all pupils during periods of closure. The inspection process adapted to include both remote and on-site evidence gathering to ensure safety and compliance with health guidelines.

The school aims to empower every girl to discover and develop her strengths, fostering aspirations for academic achievement and personal growth. The ability profile of the pupils is well above the national average, with 93 pupils identified as having special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), all receiving additional support. The school also accommodates pupils for whom English is an additional language (EAL).

The regulatory compliance inspection confirmed that the school meets the standards set by the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014. Key findings indicated that the school provides a quality education, promotes spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development, and ensures the welfare, health, and safety of its pupils. The school has effective measures in place for safeguarding, bullying prevention, and health and safety compliance, alongside a robust system for checking the suitability of staff.

The quality of education provided is characterized by good progress in learning, effective behavior management, and a well-documented curriculum that meets the required breadth of material. Pupils receive comprehensive relationships education, and the school has consulted parents regarding its policies in this area. The standards related to the quality of education, spiritual and moral development, and welfare and safety are all met.

The educational quality inspection highlighted the excellent academic achievements of the pupils, who demonstrate strong communication skills, a positive attitude towards their studies, and a commitment to extracurricular activities. The pupils are articulate, respectful listeners, and they present their ideas coherently. They engage in a variety of competitive events, gaining confidence and skills through these experiences.

Pupils' personal development is also rated as excellent, with a strong sense of community and maturity in their relationships with peers and staff. They exhibit a high level of self-worth and an understanding of respect and tolerance, contributing positively to the school environment. The school encourages a love of learning and academic passion, particularly among more able pupils, by providing a variety of extension activities.

The inspection report recommends further enhancing the love of learning among more able pupils by offering a greater variety of extension activities in class. The pupils' academic achievements are consistently high, with results at GCSE and A-level well above the national average. The school employs a centralized tracking system to monitor individual and group progress, ensuring that all pupils, including those with SEND and EAL, make significant strides in their learning.

Pupils demonstrate excellent study skills, actively engaging in lessons and reflecting on their learning. They are adept at researching, collating, and presenting information, which is reinforced through a study skills program. The school provides numerous opportunities for independent study, fostering resilience and confidence in tackling challenging tasks.

The pupils' moral understanding and sense of responsibility are well-developed, with a clear understanding of right and wrong. The school's behavior code, created by the pupils, supports its ethos, and there is a strong emphasis on discussion and reflection. Pupils are encouraged to challenge unkindness sensitively within their peer groups, and serious sanctions are rare, supported by a robust pastoral care system.

Community spirit is fostered through a strong house system, with older pupils taking on leadership roles and responsibilities. The school promotes charitable causes and encourages pupils to engage in community service, enhancing their understanding of social responsibility. The ethos of the school is reflected in the collaborative opportunities provided across various subjects, including PE, art, music, and drama.

Pupils exhibit a strong understanding of the importance of tolerance and respect for diversity. Their interactions are characterized by courtesy and mutual respect, and they actively celebrate diversity through initiatives such as Equality Week. The school encourages discussions around cultural issues, fostering an inclusive environment where all pupils feel valued and respected.

In summary, St Helen and St Katharine School provides a high-quality education that promotes academic excellence and personal development. The school meets all regulatory standards and fosters a supportive community where pupils thrive academically and socially. The commitment to continuous improvement and the holistic development of each pupil is evident in the school's practices and ethos.