Sandown School, located in Deal, Kent, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 19 and 20, 2023. Under the leadership of headteacher Kate Luxford, the school is part of the Deal Education Alliance for Learning Trust, which provides additional support and oversight. The trust is led by CEO Jo Hygate and a board of trustees chaired by Roger Walton.
Pupils at Sandown School exhibit happiness, kindness, and courtesy, thriving in an environment where staff set high expectations for learning. From early years, children are guided by clear routines, fostering a sense of responsibility and engagement. The school’s values are embraced by students, who appreciate recognition for their positive choices, such as participating in the end-of-term hot chocolate party for those who consistently strive for excellence. The school actively involves pupils in shaping policies, such as the anti-bullying policy, which enhances their confidence in seeking help from staff regarding any concerns.
A notable feature of Sandown School is the ‘Green Zone’ provision, where pupils engage in outdoor activities like open-air cooking and role modeling for younger peers. This initiative promotes cooperation and communication, particularly benefiting students with special educational needs and disabilities. The school also organizes history walks and visits, enriching pupils' understanding of their local heritage and community.
The school has a well-structured curriculum that outlines learning objectives for each educational stage. Teachers are adept at adjusting lesson sequences to meet the needs of their pupils, ensuring that those with special educational needs have access to a comprehensive education. Staff are trained to accurately identify and address individual needs, collaborating with parents and external agencies to provide effective support.
Instruction in the classroom is clear and effective, with teachers using practical examples to enhance understanding. For instance, in mathematics, pupils utilize counters and diagrams to grasp complex concepts. The classroom environment is designed to facilitate learning from the early years, allowing children to independently check their understanding of letters and sounds. The curriculum emphasizes recall, ensuring that key knowledge is revisited regularly. However, there are instances where misconceptions and errors in pupils' work are not consistently addressed, which can hinder some students' progress.
The school prioritizes early reading, providing additional support for weaker readers to help them catch up. While many students make swift progress, some struggle with phonics, leading to confusion with certain sounds. Nevertheless, pupils enjoy reading and demonstrate enthusiasm for literature, reflecting the school's commitment to fostering a love for reading.
Overall, pupils at Sandown School achieve well, developing a solid foundation of knowledge and skills for future learning. Their written work in subjects like history showcases their understanding of past events. Although published outcomes may not fully represent the school's improvements, disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs are well-prepared for the next stages of their education.
Pupils are attentive and responsive in class, maximizing their learning time. The school offers a variety of cultural experiences and extracurricular activities, including school productions, ensuring that all pupils, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds, have equal access to these opportunities. The school encourages pupils to engage with current events and consider ethical issues, preparing them for the complexities of modern life.
Staff express satisfaction with the support provided by school leaders regarding their workload and well-being. New initiatives are introduced thoughtfully, and staff training is effective. The governance structure includes active involvement from trustees and executive leaders, who monitor the school's progress through regular visits and reporting systems.
The safeguarding arrangements at Sandown School are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. The school is committed to continuous improvement, focusing on enhancing reading skills for weaker readers and addressing misconceptions in pupils' work to further support their learning journey.
