St Dominic’s School, located in Godalming, Surrey, provides specialized support for pupils with speech, language, and communication needs, as well as autism spectrum disorder. The school operates under the Orchard Hill College Academy Trust and caters to students aged 7 to 19. The recent inspection conducted on May 24 and 25, 2022, marked the school’s first routine evaluation since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with outstanding ratings in behavior and attitudes, personal development, and sixth-form provision.
The school is characterized by a strong sense of community, with parents, pupils, and staff describing it as a family. Senior leaders prioritize the well-being of their pupils, ensuring that every decision is made with care and consideration for their needs. The school emphasizes high academic achievement, supported by therapeutic interventions that help pupils develop essential skills for adulthood. The curriculum is designed to be broad and inclusive, integrating therapeutic support within academic learning.
St Dominic’s has established six core values that are well understood by the entire school community. These values guide pupils in developing appropriate behaviors that foster a safe learning environment. Staff are proactive in identifying the support each pupil requires upon joining the school, collaborating closely with families and external agencies to address any challenges. Many pupils arrive with significant gaps in their education, and the school is committed to helping them overcome negative perceptions of learning by creating a safe and welcoming atmosphere.
The leadership team is ambitious and dedicated to providing an engaging educational experience. They work collaboratively with teaching and therapeutic staff to ensure that each pupil’s unique needs are met, as outlined in their education, health, and care plans. The curriculum has undergone significant improvements, combining national curriculum expectations with opportunities for pupils to understand their place in the world. Pupils in key stages four and five can pursue various GCSE and vocational qualifications, with subject choices in the sixth form tailored to individual aspirations.
Reading and vocabulary development are prioritized, with daily phonics sessions in the primary phase and carefully selected texts that encourage critical thinking and discussion. The school also excels in promoting the personal development of pupils through various experiences, such as historical reenactments and trips that build confidence and knowledge.
While the school has many strengths, there are areas for improvement. The curriculum is not yet consistently embedded across all subjects, and some teachers require additional support to enhance their subject knowledge. Leaders recognize the need for ongoing professional development to ensure that all staff can effectively deliver the curriculum.
Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to identify and support pupils at risk of harm. The school maintains meticulous records and takes prompt action when concerns arise. Overall, St Dominic’s School demonstrates a strong commitment to the well-being and academic success of its pupils, fostering a positive environment where they feel safe and motivated to learn. The high attendance rates reflect the positive impact of the school’s supportive approach, particularly for those who have faced challenges in their educational journeys.
