Frederick Gent School, located in South Normanton, Derbyshire, has been assessed as a good school following its inspection on March 15 and 16, 2022. The school is characterized by a welcoming and inclusive environment where leaders promote ambition, bravery, and care among pupils. Students are encouraged to support one another and engage respectfully in discussions. A variety of extracurricular activities, such as debating and trampolining, allow pupils to explore their interests, contributing to their overall happiness and well-being at school. The school provides strong support for students with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they feel secure and understood.
The leadership team has set high expectations for all pupils, resulting in improved academic performance compared to previous years. The quality of education has been enhanced through effective leadership and a unified approach among staff, who feel supported by the governing body. The curriculum is ambitious, with subject leaders carefully planning what pupils should learn and when. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge, providing clear explanations and regularly checking for understanding. However, there are instances where some teachers do not demand enough from pupils or fail to ensure that essential learning is secure before progressing.
While the overall behavior of pupils is generally calm and orderly, there are reports of disruptions in some lessons, which can negatively affect the learning experience. Although staff take incidents of bullying seriously, some pupils lack confidence in reporting such issues. Most parents express support for the school, noting significant improvements in recent years.
The curriculum for personal development is robust, equipping pupils with the knowledge and skills needed for future education, employment, or training. Pupils learn about safety, healthy relationships, and respect for others, and they engage in discussions about British values and cultural diversity. The school also offers a range of clubs and activities, enhancing pupils' personal growth and preparing them for life in modern Britain.
Attendance rates are good, with staff providing effective support for those who struggle to attend regularly. The school has established systems to monitor and address behavior, and while improvements are evident, challenges from the pandemic have slowed progress. Most pupils exhibit positive attitudes and treat each other with kindness, although concerns about low-level disruptions persist.
The safeguarding arrangements at Frederick Gent School are effective, with a strong culture of safety. Leaders are knowledgeable about local issues that may affect pupils and work closely with external agencies to provide necessary support. Staff training is thorough, ensuring that all personnel understand their responsibilities regarding safeguarding.
To further improve, the school must address the inconsistent application of behavior management systems and ensure that all pupils demonstrate appropriate attitudes towards learning. Additionally, leaders should continue to raise expectations in subjects where performance is not as strong, particularly in science. Teachers need to verify that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disadvantaged students, fully understand the material before moving on to new concepts. Overall, Frederick Gent School is making significant strides in providing a quality education and fostering a supportive environment for its pupils.
