Downside School’s place among the top flight of the country’s independent schools has been reaffirmed
The independent boarding and day school for boys and girls, at Stratton on the Fosse, Somerset, is one of England’s oldest and most distinguished Catholic schools.
The November inspection reported an impressive majority of areas as excellent, with only three areas recommended for improvement.
Important areas recorded as excellent included the quality of academic and other achievements, the broad and balanced curriculum, extra-curricular provision including beneficial community links, support for SEN and EAL needs and the quality of personal development including spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of the pupils.
Other significant aspects including pastoral care, contribution of arrangements for welfare and health and safety, the quality of boarding and the safeguarding of pupils were also considered excellent.
Teaching was classed as excellent overall characterised by an excellent appreciation of language and literature and an excellent understanding of advanced mathematical techniques.
Pupils at Downside are generally above the national average at all levels academically, being reported as mature, confident, articulate and excellent learners.
This is characterised by a mature, confident and articulate approach with well presented and well organised work. They are well educated in accordance with the school’s aims, continuing to develop well from GCSE to A Level, a high proportion gaining places at universities, many highly selective.
Gifted and talented pupils are well catered for and pupils are enthusiastic about the excellent and extensive programme for sport, the arts, and community service, as well as the wide range of well-organised clubs, competitions and events.
Boarding houses provide an excellent standard of care, with the Rule of St Benedict underpinning all aspects of life, but it was recommended that some accommodation be improved where needed.
There is a high level of excellent pastoral care coupled to excellent support for pupils, all of whom receive significant care, and the excellent relationships between pupils and staff and amongst pupils underpin the community spirit.
The contribution of arrangements for welfare was regarded as excellent. Policies and practice meet the requirements in full. Thorough procedures ensure the safe recruitment of staff and the necessary checks are carried out. In addition the School has very precise procedures to manage contact with the monastery.
Ambitious leadership and good management have created effective structures and systems and excellent links with parents and it was recommended that arrangements be extended to identify and support the professional needs of all individuals.