King's School, located in Hove, has been recognized for its overall effectiveness as a good educational institution. The inspection conducted on March 22 and 23, 2022, highlighted several strengths in the school's operations, particularly in the areas of behavior, attitudes, and personal development, which were rated as outstanding. The school fosters a strong sense of community among its pupils, who are described as confident, articulate, and proud to be part of the school. The Christian ethos of the school promotes values such as love, forgiveness, respect, and responsibility, contributing to a positive and supportive environment.
Pupils at King's School feel happy and safe, with exemplary behavior observed throughout the school. The school has a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying, harassment, and violence, ensuring that any incidents are addressed swiftly and effectively. The leadership team has cultivated a culture that extends beyond academics, with a strong emphasis on personal development. The curriculum is designed to be ambitious and meets the needs of all pupils, building progressively on the primary curriculum. Regular assessments are conducted to identify and address gaps in knowledge.
The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, drama, and international trips, which enrich the pupils' learning experiences. Enrichment days are organized to promote independence and responsibility, as well as to foster a passion for the wider world. The provision for personal development is exceptional, with a high-quality PSHE program that helps pupils become respectful and responsible members of society. Attendance has improved significantly, and there has been a notable reduction in suspensions and internal exclusions.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas identified for improvement. The curriculum in certain subjects, particularly computing and physical education, lacks depth and coherence. The computing curriculum has not been delivered as planned, resulting in some pupils falling behind in their learning. Additionally, the physical education curriculum does not allow pupils to deepen their knowledge and expertise due to issues with the length and timetabling of activities. Leaders are actively working to enhance the profile of languages and to foster a culture of reading within the school.
Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is strong, with teachers adapting lessons to meet their needs effectively. Disadvantaged pupils are well-known and supported, and higher-attaining pupils are challenged with more demanding work. The headteacher is highly regarded and leads by example, prioritizing the interests of pupils. Staff feel supported and valued, contributing to a positive working environment.
The safeguarding arrangements at King's School are effective, with a culture of vigilance established. The safeguarding team is experienced and skilled in identifying welfare concerns and providing timely interventions. Pupils report feeling safe and are knowledgeable about safety, relationships, and consent.
In summary, King's School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and personal development for its pupils. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in the delivery of certain subjects, the overall effectiveness of the school is commendable, with strong leadership, a supportive environment, and a focus on the well-being of all students.
