The Lenham School, located in Maidstone, Kent, has been recognized for its overall effectiveness, achieving a rating of good in various aspects including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth-form provision. The school operates under the Valley Invicta Academies Trust and has seen significant improvements since its transition to academy status in January 2017. The headteacher, who has been in position since January 2016, has played a pivotal role in transforming the school environment, fostering a culture where academic and social success is prioritized.
Pupils at The Lenham School exhibit commendable behavior both in and out of the classroom, contributing to a calm and orderly atmosphere. The school emphasizes high expectations and offers a broad curriculum, including the International Baccalaureate, which enhances the educational experience. Relationships between staff and students are strong, creating a supportive environment where pupils feel safe and valued. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they do occur, they are addressed promptly, reinforcing the school's commitment to a positive school culture.
The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, with a wide range of subjects available to students. While many departments have well-developed subject plans, there is a recognition that some areas, particularly mathematics, require further refinement to ensure consistency in teaching and learning. The school aligns well with the English Baccalaureate, with a significant proportion of pupils studying the subjects deemed essential for further education and employment.
Teachers at The Lenham School demonstrate strong subject knowledge and are committed to fostering student achievement. This dedication is reflected in the progress made by all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school has implemented effective strategies to support disadvantaged pupils, leading to improvements in their learning outcomes. Personal development is also a focus, with assemblies and tutor time dedicated to fostering spiritual, moral, social, and cultural growth.
The sixth form at The Lenham School is thriving, with students expressing satisfaction with their studies and the support they receive. They have access to a variety of academic and vocational courses, including opportunities to resit GCSEs in English and mathematics. The introduction of the International Baccalaureate course has been well-received, further diversifying the educational offerings.
While the school has made significant strides, there are areas for improvement. Leaders need to ensure that the revised curriculum plans are fully established and effectively implemented across all subjects. This includes providing detailed guidance for teachers on what pupils need to learn and how to build on their existing knowledge. Additionally, while self-evaluation processes are in place, there is a need for better communication regarding the school’s priorities and improvement plans to ensure that all staff are aligned and informed.
The safeguarding arrangements at The Lenham School are robust, with leaders prioritizing the safety and well-being of pupils. Staff are well-trained to recognize and respond to safeguarding concerns, ensuring a safe learning environment for all students. Overall, The Lenham School is on a positive trajectory, with strong leadership, a supportive atmosphere, and a commitment to continuous improvement in educational outcomes for its pupils.
