King Arthur's School in Wincanton, Somerset, underwent an inspection on November 29 and 30, 2022, and received an overall effectiveness rating of Requires Improvement. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, and leadership and management were also rated as Requires Improvement, while personal development was rated as Good. This was the first inspection under section five of the Education Act 2005 since the school converted to an academy in April 2019.
The inspection revealed that pupils and parents appreciate the positive relationships between staff and students. Most pupils attend regularly and are punctual, showing a willingness to meet the expectations set by school leaders. In many lessons, pupils demonstrate good behavior and take pride in their achievements, as evidenced by the awards and badges they earn. However, a small minority of pupils feel that instances of bullying are not adequately addressed by staff, indicating a need for improvement in this area.
The school has made strides in enhancing its curriculum, which is now ambitious and reflects high aspirations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. However, in key stage four, few pupils continue to study a modern foreign language, limiting their exposure to the full suite of subjects required for the English Baccalaureate. While leaders have taken steps to address this, the impact has yet to be fully realized.
Leaders have clear expectations regarding the knowledge pupils should acquire at each stage, but the teaching methods do not consistently support effective knowledge retention. Some teachers fail to check pupils' understanding of new material, leading to gaps in knowledge and misunderstandings. Additionally, while pupils receive support to improve their reading fluency, many remain reluctant to read widely, which hinders their development of a love for reading.
The school has established systems for managing pupil behavior, but not all staff consistently enforce these expectations. This inconsistency can lead to disruptions in learning, and some pupils report discomfort with the intolerant language used by a minority of their peers. Addressing these behavioral issues is essential for creating a conducive learning environment.
The careers program at King Arthur's School is thorough and prepares pupils well for their future educational paths, including those with special educational needs. Pupils understand British values, although some do not always demonstrate the expected level of tolerance. The school promotes understanding of different faiths and cultures through various subjects, and pupils engage in community contributions, such as supporting younger students during their transition from primary school.
Staff express confidence in the leadership team, appreciating the support provided for their professional development and the consideration given to their workload and well-being. Governors and trustees are knowledgeable about the school and actively support and challenge leaders to improve.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with staff well-trained and aware of their responsibilities. Leaders promptly refer concerns to appropriate agencies and follow up diligently. The curriculum includes education on safety and healthy relationships, ensuring pupils are informed about how to protect themselves.
To improve, the school must ensure that teaching methods enhance knowledge retention and that all pupils are supported to make the best possible progress. Consistent behavior management is crucial to minimize disruptions in learning, and leaders must address the use of offensive language among pupils to foster a respectful environment.
