Downside School

Downside School is an independent co-educational boarding school located in Stratton-on-the-Fosse, Radstock, Somerset, with a Roman Catholic religious affiliation. Established in 1606 in France by the Benedictine community of St Gregory the Great, the school has been situated at its current site near Bath since 1814. The school is overseen by a board of trustees and accommodates boarders in six boarding houses, four designated for male pupils and two for female pupils. The school has undergone significant changes since the previous inspection, including a legal and financial separation from the Downside Abbey General Trust. The current chair of governors was appointed in February 2023.

The school aims to provide a holistic education that fosters both academic excellence and personal development, encouraging pupils to achieve their highest potential while instilling Benedictine values such as listening, humility, and stewardship. Downside School serves a diverse pupil population, with 355 students enrolled, including 110 day pupils and 245 boarders. The school has identified 100 pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, and a significant portion of the student body comprises international pupils.

The Regulatory Compliance Inspection conducted in June 2023 confirmed that Downside School meets the standards set forth in the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014 and the National Minimum Standards for Boarding Schools 2022. The inspection focused on various aspects of the school's operations, including the quality of education, spiritual and moral development, welfare and safety, staff suitability, premises, information provision, complaints handling, and leadership quality.

The quality of education provided at Downside School is commendable, with GCSE and A-level results from 2020 to 2022 indicating that teaching enables pupils to make good progress. The curriculum is well-documented and supported by appropriate plans and schemes of work, ensuring that pupils receive a broad and balanced education. The school has implemented effective behavior management strategies and provides suitable resources for teaching. Additionally, boarders have access to a range of extracurricular activities that enhance their educational experience.

The school places a strong emphasis on the spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of its pupils. Principles and values that promote responsible citizenship are actively encouraged, and boarders are supported in developing positive relationships based on mutual respect. The school has established a prefect system that is effectively managed, allowing pupils to take on leadership roles within the school community.

In terms of welfare, health, and safety, Downside School has implemented robust arrangements to safeguard and promote the well-being of its pupils. The school adheres to current statutory guidance, promotes good behavior, and takes proactive measures to prevent bullying. Health and safety requirements are met, including fire safety provisions, and appropriate first aid arrangements are in place. The school maintains accurate admission and attendance registers and has a strategic approach to risk assessment. A disability access plan is also in place to ensure inclusivity.

The suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors is rigorously checked, with a register maintained as required. Visitors to boarding accommodation are appropriately supervised, and the school's guardianship arrangements are effectively managed. The inspection confirmed that the standards relating to the suitability of those in contact with pupils are met.

Downside School's premises and accommodation are well-maintained, providing suitable facilities for pupils' needs. Adequate toilet and changing facilities, as well as medical and therapy accommodations, are available. The school ensures that its premises meet health and safety standards, with appropriate acoustics, lighting, and water provision. Outdoor spaces are provided for physical education and play, and boarding accommodation is deemed adequate for all boarders.

The school publishes a range of information for parents, inspectors, and the Department for Education, including details about the school's ethos, curriculum, admission arrangements, behavior policies, and health and safety provisions. The safeguarding policy is accessible on the school's website, and a statement of boarding principles and practice is published.

Complaints from parents are handled effectively through a structured three-stage process, ensuring that concerns are addressed in a timely manner. Records of complaints and actions taken are maintained appropriately, including those related to boarding provision.

The leadership and management of Downside School demonstrate good skills and knowledge, fulfilling their responsibilities effectively to ensure that all standards are consistently met. The proprietor actively promotes the well-being of pupils, and appropriate policies and records are maintained and monitored effectively.

Overall, the inspection findings indicate that Downside School is successfully meeting the required standards across all areas of operation. The school provides a supportive and nurturing environment that fosters both academic achievement and personal growth, ensuring that pupils are well-prepared for their future endeavors. The commitment to maintaining high standards of education, welfare, and leadership reflects the school's dedication to its mission and values, making it a commendable institution for the education and development of its pupils.