The Abbey School, located in Farnham, Surrey, has received an outstanding overall effectiveness rating in its recent inspection conducted on June 4 and 5, 2024. The school is part of the Weydon Multi Academy Trust, led by CEO John Winter and overseen by a board of trustees chaired by Ralph Johnson. Under the leadership of headteacher David Jackson, the school provides a nurturing environment that balances care with academic ambition, enabling all pupils to achieve their best.
From the moment students join the Abbey School, staff work diligently to identify the specific support each pupil requires, preparing them for fulfilling lives. The curriculum is diverse and designed to raise aspirations, ensuring that students are on the right path for their future. Pupils demonstrate enthusiasm in lessons and consistently meet the high expectations set by their teachers. The relationships between staff and students are characterized by warmth and mutual respect, contributing to a positive school atmosphere.
Daily routines are well-managed, promoting a calm and orderly environment conducive to learning. Visual aids and symbols are effectively used to clarify expectations, allowing lessons to proceed smoothly. Pupils exhibit respect and kindness towards one another, forming strong friendships during their time at the school. The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including clubs like basketball and film club, which are accessible to all students, including those with physical disabilities.
The Abbey School excels in maintaining high expectations for pupil achievement. Its mission statement, together we can, reflects the ambitious and rewarding curriculum that promotes independence and a desire for knowledge. The curriculum aligns with pupils' future aspirations, offering courses in horticulture, childcare, and media, complemented by weekly college placements and various work experiences. This comprehensive approach ensures that pupils are well-prepared for post-16 destinations.
Upon joining the school, staff gather extensive information from previous placements and engage with parents to tailor support effectively. Collaboration with clinical and therapy professionals ensures that pupils receive the necessary assistance. Individualized targets derived from education, health, and care plans empower pupils to take ownership of their learning and behavior, resulting in high attendance rates as students are eager to participate in their education.
The school prioritizes effective communication, beginning with foundational reading and writing skills. Staff identify essential vocabulary in every lesson, using symbols and visual aids to help pupils connect words with meanings. This approach fosters pupils' writing abilities, enabling them to articulate their views eloquently. Reading is encouraged through engaging stories, with staff providing expert support to those at earlier stages of literacy development.
The Abbey School is committed to ensuring that disadvantaged pupils have equal access to enrichment opportunities. Staff collaborate with families to provide the necessary resources for these pupils to thrive, including assistance in establishing home routines. Parents appreciate this partnership, which enhances the overall educational experience.
Holistic development is a key focus, with meticulous planning that complements the academic curriculum. Offsite trips and residential experiences are designed to build confidence and life skills, while visits from local authors and poets enrich pupils' learning. The quality of these opportunities is highly regarded by both parents and pupils.
Staff receive extensive training and support, fostering a strong sense of pride in their school and its pupils. The board of trustees and governors effectively understand and execute their roles, maintaining a clear strategic vision that translates into outstanding educational provision. The school's safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, the Abbey School stands out for its commitment to excellence in education and the well-being of its students.
