The King's School in Grantham has recently undergone its first inspection since becoming an academy, receiving a commendable overall effectiveness rating of good. The inspection took place on December 13 and 14, 2022, and assessed various aspects of the school's performance, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth-form provision, all of which were rated as good. The school has established a strong reputation among pupils and parents, with students expressing pride in their school and the opportunities it provides. Leaders emphasize high academic achievement while also focusing on developing pupils into resilient and well-rounded individuals.
The curriculum at The King's School is broad and ambitious, ensuring that all pupils have the opportunity to reach their full academic potential. Pupils receive a solid grounding in various subjects during key stage three, which prepares them for future studies. Subject leaders have carefully identified key concepts for pupils to learn, and the curriculum is regularly reviewed to ensure it remains relevant and comprehensive. Teachers demonstrate good subject knowledge and utilize well-chosen resources to facilitate effective learning. However, there are instances where teachers do not fully check for depth of understanding, leading to some gaps in knowledge for certain pupils.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive support, but the identification of their needs could be more precise. The information provided to teachers about these pupils is sometimes not accurate enough, which can hinder the effectiveness of the support provided. The school has a consistent approach to behavior management, creating a calm and orderly environment conducive to learning. Most pupils attend regularly and are punctual, although there are concerns regarding the persistent absence of a small number of students, which leaders need to address more swiftly.
Beyond academics, the school encourages pupils to engage with the community through various initiatives, including charity work and performances. The extracurricular sports program is well-received, allowing pupils to develop their talents and compete proudly for their houses. The sixth form is particularly strong, with students feeling well-prepared for their next educational or employment steps. Many students successfully gain admission to prestigious universities and courses, benefiting from the expert knowledge of their teachers and the mentoring opportunities available.
Staff at The King's School report high levels of support from leadership, which considers their workload and well-being. The governing body plays an active role in holding leaders accountable for the school's performance. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to respond appropriately to any concerns. Leaders maintain detailed records of safeguarding issues and are quick to involve external agencies when necessary.
To improve further, the school should ensure that teachers systematically check for understanding among all pupils to address knowledge gaps. Additionally, the strategy for identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs should be refined to provide more accurate information to teachers. Finally, the procedures for managing persistent absenteeism need to be strengthened to ensure timely interventions for at-risk pupils. Overall, The King's School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a positive environment for all its students.
