Soham Village College, located in Ely, Cambridgeshire, has recently undergone an inspection on June 19 and 20, 2024, and has been rated as outstanding in all areas, including overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. The headteacher, Jon Hampson, leads the school, which is part of the Staploe Education Trust, overseen by CEO Carin Taylor and a board of trustees chaired by Simon Wright.
Pupils at Soham Village College report high levels of happiness and feel valued, trusted, and respected within the school community. This positive environment fosters a sense of pride among students, who are eager to represent their school in various events and activities. The school promotes confidence and self-belief, allowing students to flourish both academically and personally. Teachers maintain high expectations, providing challenging work that encourages resilience and a strong work ethic. As a result, students produce exceptional quality work and articulate their learning with impressive maturity.
The behaviour of pupils is exemplary, characterized by politeness and respect. Students are motivated to learn and strive for excellence, contributing to a classroom atmosphere free from disruption. The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports and creative pursuits, many of which are initiated and run by the students themselves. This extensive provision allows pupils to explore and develop their interests actively.
Soham Village College has developed a highly ambitious curriculum that prioritizes essential knowledge for all students. Subject specialists have carefully structured the curriculum into manageable segments, enabling effective learning. Teachers demonstrate excellent subject knowledge and skillfully connect concepts across different subjects, enhancing students' understanding. Regular assessments help identify and address misconceptions, ensuring that students approach independent tasks with confidence. The quality of written work produced by students is exceptional, reflecting their deep understanding of the subjects studied.
Reading is a significant focus at the school, with students encouraged to read widely. The library serves as a vibrant hub where pupils can select from a diverse range of books. Those who struggle with reading receive prompt support through personalized plans delivered by trained staff, leading to improved confidence and fluency in reading.
Students with special educational needs and disabilities receive effective support, with teachers utilizing detailed information to create accessible learning experiences. This inclusive approach ensures that these students make progress comparable to their peers. The school fosters a strong sense of community, where students understand the impact of their actions on others and are committed to personal and collective growth.
The personal development program is comprehensive, integrating opportunities for students to understand modern societal values such as tolerance, democracy, and respect. These principles are embedded in the curriculum and are reflected in the students' daily lives, contributing to a welcoming and inclusive school ethos. The school also provides a well-structured careers education program, linking classroom learning to real-world applications and helping students make informed decisions about their future pathways.
Trustees demonstrate a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement, supporting staff who take pride in their work environment. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe and supportive atmosphere for all students. Overall, Soham Village College exemplifies excellence in education, providing a nurturing environment that promotes academic success and personal development for all its pupils.
