Fullbrook School, located in New Haw, Addlestone, Surrey, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 1 and 2, 2022. The school is characterized by its inclusive and friendly environment, often referred to as the Fullbrook family by its pupils. Students express enjoyment in attending the school and feel safe within its community. There is a strong emphasis on respect for diversity, and pupils in leadership roles actively contribute to shaping school decisions, demonstrating a sense of ownership and responsibility.
The school’s vision, which emphasizes that every pupil can exceed their own expectations, is well understood by both staff and students. The implementation of a new behavior policy has positively impacted the school environment, fostering a culture where most pupils are eager to learn. This is evident in the calm and purposeful atmosphere during lessons, where pupils display politeness and respect towards one another. While some students report instances of bullying, the majority feel confident that such issues will be addressed promptly by staff.
Fullbrook School offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, which pupils are enthusiastic about participating in. Activities include jazz band, science club, cookery club, and various sports. The annual school show is a significant event that students look forward to, especially after the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The leadership team at Fullbrook has cultivated an ambitious culture, with strong involvement from governors and staff within the multi-academy trust. Staff members take pride in their work, and there is a palpable sense of collegiality among them. Positive relationships exist between staff and pupils, contributing to a supportive learning environment. Teachers are recognized for going above and beyond in their roles, and staff appreciate the support they receive regarding their well-being and professional development.
The curriculum at Fullbrook is designed to build knowledge and skills progressively from Year 7 to Year 13. Most pupils pursue the English Baccalaureate, ensuring a well-rounded education. The school has high expectations for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, providing additional support where necessary. A significant number of Year 11 pupils continue their education in the sixth form, where they have access to a variety of options and receive guidance for their future pathways.
Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge, particularly in English and mathematics, where well-structured resources are utilized. However, there are areas where progress is inconsistent, particularly in some subjects where teachers may not have fully developed their skills. This variability can affect the quality of pupils' work.
Reading is prioritized across the school, with additional support provided for those who need it. The library has resumed its role as a resource for reading lessons, enhancing pupils' literacy skills. The school also emphasizes the development of wider skills necessary for adulthood, incorporating personal, social, and health education into the curriculum.
Safeguarding measures at Fullbrook are effective, with a strong culture of safety and well-being. Staff receive regular training to recognize potential risks, and pupils feel secure in reporting concerns. The school benefits from support from the multi-academy trust and local authority, ensuring that pupils receive the help they need.
While Fullbrook School has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. Variability in curriculum implementation means that not all pupils achieve their full potential across subjects. Leaders are encouraged to ensure that pedagogical training is applied consistently and that adaptations for pupils with special educational needs are effectively implemented. Overall, Fullbrook School continues to provide a good educational experience for its pupils, with a commitment to ongoing improvement.