Sexey’s School in Bruton maintains ‘Good’ rating in latest Ofsted inspection of boarding provision

By Laura Linham

10th Sep 2024 | Local News

Sexey's School in Bruton (Photo: Sexey's School)
Sexey's School in Bruton (Photo: Sexey's School)

Sexey's School in Bruton has once again been rated as 'Good' in its latest Ofsted inspection of its boarding facilities.

The report, which focused on the school's social care provision, praised the boarding school for its inclusive atmosphere, strong safeguarding measures, and the positive experiences of its students.

The boarding accommodation, which caters to 120 students, received glowing feedback for creating a supportive and welcoming environment. Inspectors noted that "staff create a positive community for boarders to belong to" and that the school fosters a culture of kindness, politeness, and friendliness among the boarders. The students themselves were enthusiastic about their boarding experience, with many highlighting the variety of activities and the friendships they have formed. One of the most popular aspects, according to the report, is the food, with breakfast being a particular favourite among the students.

The school's staff were praised for their efforts to support students' personal development. Inspectors highlighted the wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports and creative clubs, with some students even trying new experiences they never thought they would. The school's emphasis on involving students in planning activities was noted as a positive step in promoting independence and inclusiveness.

While the report is overwhelmingly positive, the inspectors did identify areas for improvement, particularly in communication with parents. Feedback from parents was mixed, with some praising the opportunities available to their children, while others felt that communication could be improved. Inspectors recommended that "school leaders should ensure they consider how to improve communication with parents."

Safeguarding at Sexey's School was judged to be robust. The report states that staff understand their responsibilities, with effective systems in place for reporting, monitoring, and tracking concerns. Students feel safe in the boarding houses and trust staff to help them if needed. One standout feature of the school is its restorative approach to behaviour management, which aims to support positive behaviour and celebrate students' achievements.

However, the report did raise a concern about the use of CCTV in the boarding houses, noting that some students had misconceptions about its functionality. While CCTV is used for safety, inspectors found that the rationale for its use was not always clear and recommended that the policy be reviewed and clarified.

The leadership and management of the boarding provision were described as "good," with the headteacher and director of boarding maintaining effective oversight of the service. Governors were also praised for their involvement and understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. The accommodation itself was described as spacious and welcoming, with common rooms providing a comfortable environment for students to socialise.

Overall, the inspection concluded that Sexey's School offers a high-quality boarding experience, with enthusiastic staff, supportive leadership, and a strong focus on the well-being and progress of its students.

     

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