On 29 June 2023, an urgent inspection of Rye College was conducted by His Majesty’s Inspector, Matthew Haynes, alongside Sue Keeling. This inspection was prompted by concerns regarding the personal development of pupils and the effectiveness of leadership and management, particularly in relation to the teaching of relationships and sex education. The inspection followed complaints about the school’s approach to these subjects. Although Ofsted does not investigate specific complaints, the focus during this visit was on relationships, sex, and health education, as well as the teaching of protected characteristics as defined by law.
The inspection did not yield any serious concerns, and while no graded judgments were given, it was noted that if evidence suggested a decline in overall standards, a graded inspection would be conducted in the future. The findings indicated that the school meets the statutory requirements for relationships, sex, and health education. The curriculum is designed to cover contested areas, and the majority of pupils demonstrate a solid understanding of protected characteristics and their significance. They learn about the legal framework surrounding these topics and engage in discussions that respect diverse viewpoints.
Pupils expressed enthusiasm for the weekly life education lessons and related activities, such as tutor time and assemblies. They view these lessons as integral to their personal development and school life. The concerns that led to the inspection do not reflect the typical experiences of pupils at Rye College. The leadership team, including trustees and the CEO of the Aquinas Church of England Education Trust, actively monitor and evaluate the RSHE curriculum, addressing any issues promptly and effectively. They maintain a comprehensive understanding of the school’s provision for RSHE and gather feedback from pupils to ensure the curriculum meets their needs.
Pupils are well-prepared to engage with a variety of perspectives and beliefs encountered in modern society. They approach discussions on complex issues thoughtfully and articulately, demonstrating the ability to reflect on topics from multiple angles. The school emphasizes respectful debate, and most pupils learn to engage in discussions about contentious subjects maturely. The teaching staff receive regular training to deliver RSHE sensitively and impartially, and they are equipped to manage challenging conversations effectively.
Parents are kept informed about their children’s learning in RSHE through weekly bulletins, which outline the topics being studied. The school fosters productive engagement with parents, allowing them to raise questions regarding the curriculum. The majority of parents express positive views about the school’s efforts to support their children’s personal development, appreciating the thoughtful approach to complex subjects.
Discrimination of any kind is not tolerated at Rye College, and any issues are addressed promptly. Pupils feel confident that staff will take appropriate action to resolve any concerns. The school has cultivated a culture of kindness and mutual support, where pupils collaborate effectively, encouraging one another in their learning and achievements. Overall, the inspection highlighted the school’s commitment to providing a supportive and inclusive environment for all pupils, ensuring they are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of modern life. The findings reflect a positive view of the school’s leadership, curriculum, and the overall well-being of its students.
