Aspire School, located in Sittingbourne, underwent its first inspection since opening in September 2020. The inspection took place on October 11 and 12, 2022, and the overall effectiveness of the school was rated as requiring improvement. The quality of education was also deemed to require improvement, while behavior and attitudes, as well as personal development, were rated as good. Leadership and management, along with early years provision, were found to require improvement.
The school has established a warm and respectful environment where staff build positive relationships with pupils. Many students arrive with negative experiences from previous educational settings, but they quickly adapt to the school, make friends, and gain confidence. High expectations and clear routines are set from the beginning, contributing to a sense of security among pupils. However, there is a need for academic improvement, as pupils could achieve better academically.
During break times, pupils engage in energetic yet sensible play, demonstrating care for one another. The school’s breakfast club offers a calm start to the day, allowing pupils to choose activities and socialize. Leaders have managed significant changes since the school’s inception, including rapid expansion, and have a clear vision for future development despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The curriculum for English and mathematics has been recently introduced, providing a solid framework for teaching these subjects. Staff training has ensured that reading, writing, and mathematics are well established from early years onward. However, the curriculum in other subjects is still in the early stages of development, leading to insufficient sequencing of learning from Reception Year to Year Six. Leaders recognize the need to enhance the wider curriculum and have begun reviewing current teaching practices.
Phonics teaching has improved significantly, with a new program and staff training leading to a consistent approach across the school. This has positively impacted pupils' early reading skills, and they enjoy reading and using phonics to decode unfamiliar words. Personal development is central to the school’s curriculum, with leaders collaborating with parents and agencies to support each pupil’s needs. Skills for independence and well-being are integrated into daily activities, and staff continuously assess pupils’ well-being.
Pupils express enjoyment in attending school and show enthusiasm for their favorite subjects. While most listen attentively in lessons, some may experience anxiety or frustration, but staff respond calmly to help them feel secure. The school’s therapeutic team provides specialized support, fostering strong relationships that encourage pupils to share their concerns.
The school effectively prepares pupils for life in modern Britain, teaching the importance of tolerance and respect. The school council engages pupils in discussions about rights and responsibilities, allowing them to contribute ideas for school improvements. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to recognize and report concerns promptly. Leaders ensure that all recruitment checks are completed timely, and the curriculum promotes understanding of safety.
To improve, the school must develop a coherently planned and sequenced curriculum across all subjects, ensuring that learning objectives are clear and effectively communicated. This will enhance the overall educational experience and support better learning outcomes for pupils.
