Darrick Wood School, located in Orpington, Kent, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on May 8 and 9, 2024. The school is overseen by Dr. Martin Airey, the headteacher, and is part of the Darrick Wood Academy Trust, which is governed by a board of trustees led by David Wilcox. The school serves a diverse student body of 1,713 pupils, including 410 in the sixth form, and caters to students aged 11 to 18.
The inspection highlighted that most pupils enjoy their time at school and benefit from the wide range of experiences offered. The school maintains high expectations, contributing to strong academic and personal development among students. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth-form provision were all rated as good. Pupils generally exhibit good behavior in lessons and throughout the school, although there are occasional disruptions due to minor behavioral issues. The school effectively manages bullying, although some students and parents have expressed concerns about its prevalence. Most pupils feel confident that staff will address any issues, although a minority feel differently.
Darrick Wood School is noted for its inclusive approach and broad curriculum, which allows students to study a wide range of subjects, including religious studies, drama, dance, physical education, art, and design technology, as well as humanities and business education. The personal, social, and health education program is comprehensive, covering important topics such as careers and health education. Pupils achieve well in their GCSEs, and the sixth form offers a diverse selection of subjects with strong results in A-level and vocational examinations.
The curriculum is designed to build knowledge progressively, with opportunities for pupils to revisit essential topics, particularly in subjects like mathematics and languages. The emphasis on reading in English helps students become confident readers, and complex ideas are explained clearly. However, some teaching techniques, particularly in Years 7 to 9, have not had the desired impact on student achievement. The school recognizes the need for targeted professional development to enhance teachers' pedagogical skills and ensure consistent implementation of the curriculum.
Inclusion is a core value at Darrick Wood School, welcoming all pupils regardless of their needs or abilities. The school has made significant efforts to support students with special educational needs and disabilities, providing additional help and in-class support that positively impacts their learning. The school is vigilant about safeguarding and follows up on identified needs diligently, resulting in strong attendance rates.
The extensive range of extracurricular activities, clubs, and trips enriches students' understanding of the world beyond the classroom. Leaders and governors prioritize the well-being of teachers, allowing them professional autonomy and support. The school’s governance is effective, with structured visits ensuring accountability.
While the school has many strengths, it must address inconsistencies in the implementation of its behavior policy, particularly in the lower years, to minimize disruptions to learning. Overall, Darrick Wood School provides a supportive and enriching environment for its students, fostering both academic success and personal growth.
