Sir Roger Manwood’s School, located in Sandwich, Kent, was inspected on 27 and 28 September 2022. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, reflecting a positive learning environment where pupils enjoy their education and are eager to attend. The school has maintained a good standard of education, behavior, and personal development, although it was previously rated as outstanding in its last inspection ten years ago. The long gap between inspections was due to the school being exempt from routine inspections until November 2020.
Pupils at the school demonstrate a strong commitment to their studies and are motivated to meet high expectations. They engage actively in lessons and appreciate the support provided by their teachers. The school fosters a respectful atmosphere, where students take initiative in maintaining their surroundings and are considerate of each other’s backgrounds. The presence of effective systems to address bullying contributes to a safe and supportive environment.
The curriculum is ambitious and varied, with a focus on the English Baccalaureate. Subject leaders have developed a tailored curriculum that builds on students' skills and interests. While most subjects are well-structured from Year 7 to 13, some foundation subjects lack careful sequencing, which can hinder consistent assessment of key knowledge. Teachers utilize their subject expertise to enhance learning, and pupils are encouraged to articulate their understanding effectively.
Pupils take pride in their work, maintaining neat and organized books. They actively participate in discussions, drawing on their knowledge to make informed judgments. The school promotes reading through a well-stocked library, and students are encouraged to explore diverse texts that foster understanding of tolerance and diversity. Leadership opportunities are available through various clubs and initiatives, including the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme.
The school provides high-quality careers advice, ensuring that students are well-prepared for their future choices. However, the personal, social, health, and economic education program has only recently been extended to the sixth form, resulting in some Year 13 students missing essential learning about relationships and health.
Safeguarding measures are effective, with a strong culture of safety embedded within the school. Staff are trained to identify and report concerns, and leaders maintain detailed records of safeguarding issues. However, the organization of some records could be improved for efficiency. The school has made strides in addressing the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they have access to the same curriculum as their peers.
Despite the positive aspects, there are areas for improvement. Leaders need to streamline safeguarding record-keeping and enhance the PSHE program in the sixth form to ensure all students receive comprehensive education on important topics. Additionally, senior leaders should increase their oversight of curriculum planning to ensure consistency across all subjects.
Overall, Sir Roger Manwood’s School provides a supportive and engaging learning environment, with dedicated staff and a commitment to student development. The school is well-positioned to build on its strengths while addressing areas for improvement to enhance the educational experience for all pupils.
