Sompting Abbotts School

Sompting Abbotts School is a coeducational independent day school located in Sompting, West Sussex. Founded in 1875 in Brighton, the school has been situated at its current location since 1921 and has been owned and managed by the same family since 1946. The school aims to provide a comprehensive and well-rounded education that fosters the physical, moral, spiritual, creative, and academic development of its pupils. The overarching goal is to cultivate confident, well-balanced individuals who exhibit personal responsibility, reliability, self-discipline, care for others, and good manners, all grounded in a strong moral framework based on Christian principles.

The school serves pupils aged 2 to 13, with a current enrollment of 114 students, including 26 in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and 88 in the junior classes. The student body is diverse, coming from various social and economic backgrounds, with most families residing within a 15-mile radius of the school. Standardized test data indicates that the pupils' abilities are above average compared to national benchmarks. The school has identified 28 pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, including conditions such as dyslexia and dyspraxia, with 19 receiving additional specialist support. Additionally, three pupils are identified as having English as an additional language, and the school provides appropriate support for them in the classroom. The school also recognizes 10 pupils as more able and offers enrichment and extension activities to meet their needs.

The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) conducted a compliance-only inspection of Sompting Abbotts School in May 2023. The inspection aimed to assess the school's adherence to the Independent School Standards as outlined in the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014. The ISI is authorized by the Secretary of State to inspect schools that are members of associations forming the Independent Schools Council. The inspection process included evaluating the school's compliance with the standards, which represent minimum requirements, and determining whether they were met or not met.

The key findings of the inspection indicated that Sompting Abbotts School meets all the standards set forth in the regulations, and no further action is required as a result of this inspection. The quality of education provided is deemed good, with the school's assessment framework confirming that teaching enables pupils to make good progress. The curriculum is well-documented and supported by appropriate plans and schemes of work, ensuring a breadth of material that facilitates effective learning. The school also provides relationships education, having consulted with parents and published a written policy in line with statutory guidance.

In terms of spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development, the school actively promotes principles and values that help pupils become responsible, tolerant, and law-abiding citizens. The arrangements in place to safeguard and promote the welfare of pupils are robust, adhering to current statutory guidance. The school promotes good behavior, prevents bullying, and meets health and safety requirements, including fire safety and first aid provisions. Proper supervision of pupils is maintained, and the school keeps accurate admission and attendance registers, demonstrating a strategic approach to risk assessment.

The school ensures the suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors through appropriate checks, maintaining a register as required. The premises and accommodation meet the necessary standards, providing suitable facilities for pupils' medical and therapy needs, as well as adequate outdoor space for physical education and play. The school publishes a range of information for parents, including details about the proprietor, the school's ethos, curriculum, and arrangements for admission, behavior, and health and safety. The safeguarding policy is readily available on the school's website.

Parental complaints are handled effectively through a structured three-stage process, which includes informal discussions, formal complaints, and a hearing before an independent panel. Each stage has clear timelines, and records are kept of all complaints and actions taken. The leadership and management of the school demonstrate good skills and knowledge, fulfilling their responsibilities effectively and promoting the well-being of pupils.

The inspection evidence included observations of lessons, discussions with pupils, and examinations of pupils' work. Inspectors also engaged with staff and the proprietor, observed extracurricular activities, and attended tutor sessions. They visited facilities for younger pupils and reviewed the learning support and educational resource areas. Feedback from parents, staff, and pupils was considered through pre-inspection questionnaires, and the inspectors examined relevant curriculum and documentation provided by the school.

Overall, the inspection concluded that Sompting Abbotts School meets all the required standards, reflecting its commitment to providing a high-quality education and a supportive environment for its pupils. The school’s dedication to fostering personal development, academic achievement, and a strong moral framework positions it as a valuable institution within the educational landscape.