Trinity Church of England School in Belvedere, Kent, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on October 5 and 6, 2021. The school fosters a strong, inclusive, and caring environment where pupils are encouraged to become responsible and compassionate citizens. The ethos of the school emphasizes making a positive impact on both local and global communities, with students engaging in projects related to climate change and supporting various charities. They also serve as well-being ambassadors for local primary schools, showcasing their commitment to community service.
Students at Trinity School appreciate the opportunities they have to contribute to the school's operations. They have actively participated in revising the behavior policy and code of conduct, reflecting their investment in the school's values. The chosen values, encapsulated in the acronym Trinity, highlight the importance of being truthful, respectful, inclusive, neighborly, innovative, tenacious, and authentic. This collaborative approach fosters a positive school culture where students enjoy their learning environment and exhibit good behavior.
Safety is a priority at Trinity School, with pupils expressing confidence in the staff's ability to protect them from bullying. The supportive atmosphere is appreciated by students, parents, and carers alike, contributing to a sense of community. Teachers maintain high expectations for all pupils, demonstrating passion for their subjects, which motivates students to strive for excellence and engage in their learning actively.
The curriculum at Trinity School is broad and ambitious, ensuring that all pupils are well-prepared for their future endeavors. The sixth form offers a diverse range of pathways, including A-level subjects and vocational courses. Leaders have established clear plans for what students should learn and how they should learn it, providing training for teachers to effectively implement these plans. This structured approach enables pupils to build on their knowledge and apply it to more complex concepts.
However, there are areas for improvement. Some aspects of the curriculum, particularly the teaching of subject-specific vocabulary and the development of literacy skills, are not fully embedded. This has resulted in some pupils feeling less confident in their understanding and use of technical language. Leaders are aware of this and are working to enhance literacy across the school.
Leaders also promote reading through various activities, such as book clubs and library quizzes, which have resumed after being paused during the pandemic. These initiatives have sparked enthusiasm among pupils, leading to an increased love for reading. Additionally, leaders monitor pupil achievement across subjects, helping teachers identify learning gaps and adapt their teaching accordingly. While most pupils feel supported in catching up on missed learning, there are instances where assessment procedures do not promptly identify when students are falling behind.
Trinity School places a strong emphasis on the wider development of its pupils. Personal, social, health, and economic education, along with citizenship lessons, equip students with knowledge about democracy, the rule of law, and mutual respect. The school actively addresses issues of prejudice and bullying, fostering an inclusive environment. Pupils engage in extracurricular activities, including sports and arts, and participate in work experience opportunities, enhancing their personal growth.
The school is committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance to thrive academically and socially. Staff well-being is also a priority, with leaders being sensitive to their needs and managing workloads effectively. Overall, Trinity Church of England School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils, with a clear path for ongoing improvement in literacy and assessment practices.
