Drayton Manor High School, located in Hanwell, London, has recently undergone an inspection on the 28th and 29th of November 2023, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of outstanding. The school has consistently demonstrated high standards in various areas, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, leadership and management, and sixth-form provision, all rated as outstanding. The headteacher, Lisa Mills, leads the school, which is part of the Drayton Manor High School Academy Trust, overseen by a board of trustees chaired by Jonathan Eva.
The school has a strong ethos focused on character building, ambition, and civic virtue. It offers an ambitious curriculum that caters to all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Pupils exhibit secure subject knowledge, leading to strong outcomes in public examinations. The school maintains high expectations for behavior, resulting in polite and courteous students who are attentive in lessons and feel safe.
Pupil leadership opportunities are abundant, particularly in the sixth form, where students actively engage in responsibilities that support the well-being of others. The sixth form provides a thoughtful enrichment program, including community service, science clubs, and various sports, fostering personal development and civic engagement. The school emphasizes a strong curriculum complemented by a wide range of experiences, particularly through music and collective activities.
Drayton Manor High School excels in providing a broad and ambitious curriculum, including subjects like classics, Latin, and Greek. Teachers possess strong subject knowledge, facilitating discussions on complex ideas. The school prioritizes inclusivity, accurately identifying pupils' needs and employing appropriate strategies to support those with SEND, resulting in excellent achievement for these students.
The curriculum is carefully sequenced, allowing pupils to build foundational knowledge before tackling more complex concepts. For instance, in science, pupils learn about the particle model before exploring thermal energy transfer. The school encourages connections between historical and contemporary issues, enhancing critical thinking and analytical skills. A love of reading is promoted, with additional support for those needing help to catch up.
The sixth form curriculum is demanding, preparing students thoroughly for advanced learning stages. The school fosters a calm and orderly environment, with high expectations for behavior, enabling pupils to manage their emotions effectively. Attendance is prioritized, with staff taking swift action to support pupils who may struggle to attend regularly.
Guidance for future education, employment, or training is robust, with pupils receiving valuable advice and information. The school effectively teaches personal, social, health, and economic education, ensuring pupils understand fundamental British values and respect for diversity. While the school offers a broad range of enrichment opportunities, some pupils, particularly in the sixth form, have yet to fully engage with these experiences.
Leadership at all levels is reflective and committed to continuous improvement. The school provides high-quality professional development for staff, fostering a supportive environment where educators feel valued. Governors actively support the school's ambitions for pupil success and citizenship, fulfilling their statutory duties effectively. The safeguarding arrangements are deemed effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, Drayton Manor High School stands out for its commitment to excellence in education and personal development.
