Turing House School, located in Twickenham, has been inspected and continues to hold an overall judgement of good. The recent ungraded inspection conducted on 11 and 12 October 2023 suggests that the school may achieve an outstanding rating if a graded inspection were to take place. The headteacher, Martin O’Sullivan, leads the school, which is part of the Russell Education Trust, overseen by CEO Colin Mackinlay and a board of trustees chaired by Karen Lynch.
Students at Turing House School express pride in their community and show great respect for their teachers, who foster a caring and stimulating learning environment. The leadership team has carefully considered all aspects of the student experience, resulting in high levels of happiness, respectful interactions, and excellent behaviour among pupils. The academic achievements of students are exceptional, reflecting the school’s commitment to a rich curriculum and a welcoming atmosphere.
The school maintains high expectations, encouraging students to take full advantage of the opportunities available to them. Teachers are described as inspirational, acting as caring guides with the best interests of the students at heart. A wide range of extracurricular activities is offered, including sports, drama, and mindfulness, with the school responsive to student interests by introducing new clubs as needed. Students are also encouraged to engage with the local community through volunteering, with their efforts recognized and celebrated.
The curriculum is ambitious and rigorous, with leaders having a clear vision of what students should learn and when. This approach extends to students with special educational needs and/or disabilities, ensuring that all pupils achieve well in public examinations. The school provides high-quality professional development for teachers, fostering a consistent approach across classrooms. This is particularly evident in mathematics, where all staff are trained in the same methods, ensuring continuity for students.
Effective systems are in place for assessing student understanding, allowing for quick identification and addressing of any gaps in knowledge. In the sixth form, students develop independent study skills and take pride in their work, collaborating effectively in performing arts classes and providing constructive feedback to peers.
The school’s vision of a family-oriented environment is reflected in the strong relationships between teachers and students, with a focus on individual interests and personalities. This inclusive atmosphere is further demonstrated in the curriculum, which embraces diversity and incorporates local and national history alongside global perspectives.
Behaviour standards are high, and students respond positively to these expectations. Teachers maintain focus in lessons, minimizing disruptions and fostering a respectful environment. Students feel safe and are taught the importance of healthy attitudes towards diversity, contributing to a strong sense of community.
Attendance is generally good, with the school implementing effective strategies to address barriers to attendance, including collaboration with local transport networks. The personal, social, and health education programme is well-developed, addressing the needs of students at various stages and providing exposure to different viewpoints through external experts.
The safeguarding arrangements at Turing House School are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all students. The inspection team noted the school’s commitment to maintaining high standards and fostering a positive culture around safeguarding.
Overall, Turing House School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education, with effective leadership, a supportive environment, and a focus on student achievement and well-being. The next inspection is anticipated to be a graded one, which may further highlight the school’s strengths and areas for continued growth.