The Howard School, located in Rainham, Gillingham, Kent, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 23 and 24, 2021. The school fosters an inclusive environment where pupils feel valued and enjoy their educational experience. Strong relationships among pupils and between pupils and staff contribute to a sense of community. The school is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of young people, ensuring that disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs and disabilities receive the support they need to succeed academically.
Pupils take pride in the school’s designation as a gold ‘Rights Respecting School’ and demonstrate acceptance of diverse backgrounds. They report feeling safe, with rare instances of bullying effectively addressed by staff. The involvement of sixth-form students in supporting younger pupils through reading and mentorship further enhances the school’s community spirit. Pupils actively participate in various subject events and competitions, which align with the school’s values of leadership, organization, resilience, intuition, and communication.
The leadership team, including governors and trustees, shares a unified vision for providing a high-quality education. They have clearly articulated the curriculum's development, ensuring that subject leaders outline learning objectives and the sequence of instruction. Teachers collaborate to create enriching resources, and the curriculum is structured to build on prior knowledge, particularly in light of challenges posed by the pandemic.
The school’s curriculum is ambitious and comprehensive, with careful planning to ensure that new knowledge builds on what pupils have previously learned. However, there are challenges in maintaining language studies, as many pupils opt to drop languages at the end of Year 8. Leaders are actively working to enhance the appeal of language studies through new staff appointments and educational trips.
Teachers utilize their subject expertise to provide clear explanations and identify common misconceptions, employing effective assessment strategies to tailor lessons to pupils' needs. Literacy is emphasized across all subjects, with recommended reading lists available to support students' development. The Culture, Development, and Well-being program addresses personal development, relationships, and welfare, although it is still in the process of being fully integrated into the school’s framework.
Pupils exhibit good behavior, contributing positively to their learning environment. While some parents have expressed concerns about bullying, the inspection did not corroborate these claims, as pupils reported that any issues are dealt with promptly. The sixth form is noted for its successful learning environment, with students achieving commendable results and receiving extensive support.
Leaders have taken steps to reduce staff workload by implementing strategies for assessment and providing time for collaborative work. Governors are well-informed about the school’s priorities and ensure compliance with statutory requirements. The safeguarding measures in place are effective, with rigorous recruitment procedures and ongoing training for staff.
The school acknowledges the need for further development in the Culture, Development, and Well-being program to ensure consistent delivery and quality. Overall, The Howard School continues to provide a supportive and effective educational experience for its pupils, preparing them well for their future endeavors.
