Bablake School
Bablake School
Bablake School
May 2023
Contents 2
Contents
School’s Details 3
1. Background Information 4
About the school 4
What the school seeks to do 4
About the pupils 4
4. Inspection Evidence 13
School’s Details
School Bablake School
Age range 11 to 18
1. Background Information
Preface
The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) is approved by the Secretary of State to inspect schools which
are, or whose heads are, in membership of the associations which form the Independent Schools Council
(ISC) and report on the extent to which they meet the Independent School Standards (‘the standards’) in the
Schedule to the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014. Additionally, inspections report
on the school’s accessibility plan under Schedule 10 of the Equality Act 2010 and the ban on corporal
punishment under section 548 of the Education Act 1996. Inspections also comment on the progress made
to meet any compliance action points set out in the school’s most recent statutory inspection.
ISI inspections are also carried out under the arrangements of the ISC Associations for the maintenance and
improvement of the quality of their membership.
This is a FOCUSED COMPLIANCE INSPECTION which was combined with an inspection of EDUCATIONAL
QUALITY. The FOCUSED COMPLIANCE inspection reports only on the school’s compliance with the
standards. The standards represent minimum requirements and judgements are given either as met or as
not met. All schools are required to meet all the standards applicable to them. Where the minimum
requirements are not met, this is clearly indicated in the relevant section of the report and the school is
required to take the actions specified. In this focused compliance inspection, key standards have been
inspected in detail. These are the standards on safeguarding; measures to guard against bullying;
arrangements for pupils’ health and safety; arrangements to check the suitability of staff; the provision of
information; the handling of parents’ complaints; and other related aspects of leadership and management.
The remaining standards and requirements are deemed to continue to be met unless evidence to the
contrary has been found.
Inspections do not include matters that are outside of the regulatory framework described above, such as:
an exhaustive health and safety audit; compliance with data protection requirements; an in-depth
examination of the structural condition of the school, its services or other physical features; contractual
arrangements with parents; an investigation of the financial viability of the school or its accounting
procedures.
Inspectors may be aware of individual safeguarding concerns, allegations and complaints as part of the
inspection process. Such matters will not usually be referred to specifically in published reports in this
document but will have been considered by the team in reaching its judgements.
Links to the standards and requirements can be found here: The Education (Independent School Standards)
Regulations 2014.
Key findings
2.1 The school meets the standards in the schedule to the Education (Independent School Standards)
Regulations 2014, and associated requirements, and no further action is required as a result of this
inspection.
appropriate; water provision is adequate. Suitable outdoor space is provided for physical education
and outdoor play.
2.13 The standards relating to the premises and accommodation [paragraphs 22–31] are met.
Preface
The EDUCATIONAL QUALITY inspection reports on the quality of the school’s work. It focuses on the two
key outcomes:
- The achievement of the pupils, including their academic development, and
- The personal development of the pupils.
The headline judgements apply one of the ISI descriptors ‘excellent’, ‘good’, ‘sound’ or ‘unsatisfactory’.
Where necessary, National Curriculum nomenclature is used to refer to year groups in the school. Where the
school’s own names differ from those used nationally, the details are given in the table below:
Key findings
3.1 The quality of the pupils’ academic and other achievements is excellent.
Pupils are high achievers who excel academically and across a wide range of co-curricular
activities.
Pupils achieve excellent levels of knowledge, skills and understanding.
Pupils confidently apply higher-order thinking skills to rapidly extend their academic skills.
Pupils display exemplary attitudes towards their learning, approaching their studies with rigour
and purpose.
3.2 The quality of the pupils’ personal development is excellent.
Pupils are extremely self-confident and self-disciplined; they are reflective and understand how
to improve their learning.
Pupils demonstrate a highly developed moral sense; they take responsibility for their own
behaviour and are sensitive to the needs of others.
Pupils display a mature social awareness, working together with an excellent sense of purpose
and enjoyment.
Pupils are respectful of each other and understand the value of diversity in their community.
Recommendation
3.3 The school is advised to make the following improvements.
Strengthen pupils’ ability to voice their perspectives and influence more effectively the way that
the school community functions.
pupils with a scholarly experience that develops their intellect in a harmonious community. Pupils’
attainment at A-level in 2022 was strong, with a quarter achieving A* and over three-quarters
achieving A* to B. This high level of attainment mirrors the centre- and teacher-assessed results in
2019, 2020 and 2021 when well over half of results achieved were at top grades. A high percentage of
sixth-form pupils take the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) with nearly half achieving A* to A for
their submissions. In 2022, over half of GCSE results were at the highest two grades with three-
quarters achieving grades 9 to 7. Data indicate similar attainment in 2019, 2020 and 2021 in the
centre- and teacher-assessed assessments. This extremely high level of attainment is a consequence
of the pupils’ excellent attitudes towards their learning, supported by teaching which demonstrates a
high level of subject knowledge combined with well-used learning resources. Data analysed show that
at GCSE, almost all pupils achieve significantly higher examination grades than expected, with a similar
pattern for those taking A levels. These results represent rapid progress in the pupils’ knowledge, skills
and understanding as they move through the school. There is no significant difference in attainment
between the different groups within the school, all of whom, including those with SEND, make
consistent, rapid progress over time. A very large majority of parents who responded to the
questionnaire that their child’s individual needs are met effectively and that teaching enables their
child to make progress.
3.6 Pupils demonstrate an excellent knowledge of different subjects and effectively apply their
understanding across all areas of their learning. In a Year 10 physics lesson, pupils confidently
explained energy transfers using Sankey diagrams. Year 12 pupils creatively employed an extensive
variety of media in their artwork, using screen printing, oil portraiture, sketch, block printing and
photography. In a Year 9 history lesson, pupils displayed an excellent understanding of the key aspects
of the United States economy in the 1920s. The work scrutinised across a range of abilities and age
groups was demanding and complex, displaying competent application of knowledge, skills and
understanding to further learning. Pupils take pride in the high standards they achieve and are strongly
supported by the well-structured, broad and challenging curriculum and by the highly effective
teaching they receive.
3.7 Throughout the school, pupils are highly effective and confident communicators. They rapidly develop
these skills, encouraged by the classroom ethos of positive interaction. Pupils are enthusiastic and
competent in their participation in debates and discussions, both in their subject lessons and in the
activities they pursue. They speak and write with confidence and authority, expressing complex ideas
fluently and sensitively. In an English lesson, Year 10 pupils demonstrated sophisticated skills as they
analysed and discussed the language in the poem, Piano, by D H Lawrence. Year 8 pupils displayed
familiarity with the similarities and differences between Greeks and Romans, tackling Latin vocabulary
with aplomb. In a Year 12 religion, philosophy and ethics lesson, pupils engaged in a vibrant discussion
on meta-ethics, reflecting with maturity upon moral situations within the context of the subject
material and their own lives. Pupils demonstrate extremely high levels of achievement in their written
work, and this is particularly evident in the high quality of the EPQ theses submitted by Year 13 pupils.
This high quality is reflected in the range and depth of essays produced by pupils in Year 8 to 10 who
form the symposium group.
3.8 Pupils display strong numeracy skills, applying these competently across the curriculum. Year 7 pupils
confidently used measurements of mass, volume and quantity of ingredients in their food technology
lesson. In a biology lesson, Year 13 pupils displayed excellent applied use of complex mathematics
using Simpson’s biodiversity index, bacterial cell counts, dilution series and logarithmic functions. Year
9 pupils understand the difference between dependent and independent variables, interpreting data
accurately and plotting diffusion gradients in diffusion and osmosis. In their mathematics lessons,
pupils of all abilities apply their knowledge, skills and understanding with fluency and confidence. For
example, Year 11 pupils successfully completed parallel and perpendicular line graphics, reaching
secure outcomes with their calculations.
3.9 Pupils develop high levels of competence in information and communication technology (ICT), and
routinely apply these skills across a range of subjects. They are creative in their use of technology and
use their technical skills to promote all aspects of their learning. In a history lesson, Year 7 pupils
studying the siege of Rochester Castle competently produced newspaper accounts using word
processing applications. Year 9 pupils effectively used computer aided design and manufacturing
applications, laser and 3D printers to create lamps. Pupils are equally dexterous and imaginative in
their use of technology outside the classroom. In a house assembly, house captains delivered a well-
planned and well-executed electronic presentation exploring different cultures and incorporating an
interactive quiz to add interest. In coding club, senior pupils confidently used an advanced computer
language programme as they worked on developing an app to construct a marketable game for
children. Pupils are confident in their use of technology, competently accessing lesson materials
online, conducting independent research and in presenting their work.
3.10 Pupils display extremely well-developed study skills. They are confident participants in their lessons,
challenging their understanding and extending their knowledge through high levels of engagement
with their subject. In an economics lesson, Year 12 pupils were highly adept analysing stimulus
material prior to answering examination questions. Year 12 pupils studying history, effectively
contextualised the effect of religion on the crown in the Tudor reign. In their approach to their
symposium and EPQ submissions, pupils display extremely well-developed levels of analysis,
hypothesis and synthesis as they research and present their material. Pupils throughout the school
are highly effective in employing their study skills. They approach their studies with maturity and
commitment, gaining positive learning experiences from their mistakes. As a result, they rapidly
consolidate their subject knowledge and extend their academic understanding.
3.11 Pupils achieve at extremely high levels through participation in the school’s co-curricular programme.
They are highly successful in national Science and Mathematics Challenges, were national finalists in
a recent Formula One competition and gained ‘Best Teamwork’ award last year for the Industrial
Cadets. Pupils regularly achieve local, regional and national success in a wide range of sports often
working in partnership with King Henry VIII school. Pupils develop self-confidence as they participate
in the many orchestras, bands, quartets, choirs and dramatic performances throughout the year. They
achieve high grades in external music and drama examinations. Pupils broaden their life skills and gain
experience through the comprehensive co-curricular programme, generously supported by the
provision made by school’s leaders and governors.
3.12 Pupils throughout the school demonstrate excellent attitudes towards their learning. They are diligent
and dedicated in their approach to their academic studies, working hard to succeed. They successfully
work with each other and with their teachers. Pupils take responsibility for the quality of their work
and are proud of their achievements. Pupils work independently and collaboratively with a strong
sense of purpose, and this was evidenced in their lessons and through scrutiny of their written work.
Pupils are extremely supportive of each other, demonstrating high levels of perseverance and
resilience as they work towards gaining academic excellence. Most parents who responded to the
questionnaire stated that the school helps their children to be confident and independent, and this is
evidenced in the mature approach of pupils towards their learning.
process of self-evaluation and reflection and incorporate a strategic process of experimentation in the
style of researched artists. Pupils displayed confidence and skill as they worked to support individual
improvisations on the gamelan orchestra, successfully experimenting with sequencing and volume. In
a Year 7 drama lesson, pupils confidently utilised a range of techniques to enhance their physical
performance skills, using slow motion, stillness, freeze frame to create sophisticated sequences. Pupils
of all ages and abilities, approach their studies with maturity and resilience, understanding the need
to persevere in order to succeed and this was clearly evidenced in the scrutiny of pupils’ work.
Throughout the school, pupils are willing participants in the co-curricular programme of activities and
clubs, gaining self-awareness as they experience new skill sets.
3.15 Pupils understand the importance of making decisions and taking responsibility for their lives. They
are aware of how their decisions may affect their futures and impact on their wellbeing. Senior pupils
demonstrate a mature understanding of the importance of the subject choices they make and are
appreciative of the careers guidance they receive. Pupils view mistakes as positive learning
opportunities, encouraged by the support routinely offered by their teachers. In their practical science
sessions, pupils of all ages act sensibly with proper regard to the safety of themselves and their peers.
Pupils are encouraged to make sensible choices and decisions which they do effectively supported by
their teachers and, as a result, pupils confidently take ownership of their own learning and gain self-
confidence. Pupils of all ages are highly successful in balancing the considerable demands of their
academic and co-curricular choices.
3.16 Pupils demonstrate a strong appreciation of the non-material elements of life and speak maturely of
how this strengthens their self-awareness. They are thoughtful and reflective, incorporating their
awareness of non-tangible elements in their artwork and in classroom discussions on ethical topics.
Pupils in a Year 11 geography lesson accurately described the consequences of poverty in an urban
conurbation, where lack of housing and high levels of unemployment are frequently manifested in
poor education, drugs, soaring infection rates and crime. Scrutiny of pupils’ work in their ‘life choices’
studies reveals a mature understanding of correlation between behaviours and wellbeing. Pupils in
the symposium group demonstrate a keen awareness of the extent and wonder of the non-material
aspects of our world, researching topics such as parapsychology, how gyroscopes work, the
photographic memory and the theory of dark matter. Pupils display a genuine understanding of
different cultures and religions, discussing these with sensitivity in their religious studies. They value
the faith room where they can spend quiet time during the day.
3.17 Pupils display a strong moral understanding and a clear sense of right and wrong. In an English lesson,
Year 13 pupils demonstrated maturity of understanding as they discussed the morality of individualism
and the consequences of putting oneself above others in order to rise in status. Pupils in a classical
civilization lesson, considered morality in the ancient world, their conclusions informing a pertinent
discussion and reflection on contemporary practice. Pupils gain a strong understanding of how to build
positive relationships supported by the robust ‘life choices’ programme. Almost all pupils and a very
large majority of parents in their questionnaire responses stated that the school expects pupils to
behave well. Inspectors found that behaviour within the classroom and around the campus is
exemplary.
3.18 Pupils develop excellent social skills and employ these effectively in their academic and leisure times.
They develop positive attitudes towards each other and demonstrate a genuine willingness to work
together, enabled through the strong house and pastoral system. Pupils develop high levels of social
understanding through the many opportunities the school offers, both academically and through the
extensive co-curricular programme. Pupils from mixed age groups worked harmoniously together in
recorder club, while in a Year 7 tutor session, peers engaged in chess matches, held impromptu play
rehearsals or discussed revision strategies together. In a Year 9 chemistry practical, pupils worked
effectively in small groups to produce crystals of copper sulphate. An overwhelming majority of
parents who responded to the questionnaire agreed that the school enables their children to develop
strong teamwork and social skills.
3.19 Pupils develop strong leadership skills as they undertake roles of responsibility within their school
community. Senior pupils contribute as prefects and house captains, gaining valuable experience as
leaders. Year 10 pupils engage in volunteer work with the junior school and as readers with Year 7,
while trained peer mentors offer support to their contemporaries. Older pupils run the weekly
Chocolate and Chat club within school, while many undertake volunteer roles in the local community,
for example, working in charity shops, assisting the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, and
collecting for food banks. A high number of pupils undertake The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme.
Throughout the school, pupils are active in raising money for local, national and international charities.
Pupils have many opportunities to express themselves, for example, through school councils, tutor
sessions, pupil surveys, anonymous online forums and through the pastoral hub. However, a small
minority of pupils who responded to the questionnaire felt that school does not listen to their views.
Inspectors found that, at present, pupils’ ability to voice their perspectives to influence the way that
the school community functions is not as effective as possible.
3.20 Pupils say that they are proud of their school and of its welcoming, inclusive ethos which is firmly
based on the value of respect, regardless of ethnicity, culture, gender or disability. Senior pupils in an
English lesson ably identified and discussed emotive language used in newspaper headlines that had
the potential to create bias against females. Pupils of all ages listen respectfully to each other and are
sensitive in their responses. The highly popular ‘Inclusivity club’ meets weekly and produces a digital
newsletter emailed to the whole school. Pupils run a thriving LGBTQ+ club, which is led by two sixth
formers and where discussions are freely encouraged. In their discussions, pupils readily
demonstrated an awareness for the need for equality, diversity and inclusion and spoke positively of
the inclusive culture of the school. Pupils develop a strong awareness and understanding of diverse
cultures and religions from their peers, through the curriculum, visits from external speakers and trips
outside school. A very large majority of parents stated that the school actively promotes values of
democracy, respect and tolerance of other people.
3.21 Pupils have an excellent understanding of how to keep themselves safe and lead healthy lives,
supported by the well-planned programmes of study and by their tutors. Pupils throughout the school
take advantage of the many sporting opportunities available to them to maintain their physical fitness
and mental wellbeing supported by experienced sports coaches and trained mental health first aiders.
Pupils are encouraged to make healthy choices through suitable menu options or may bring in their
own lunches. Pupils know how to keep themselves safe online, receiving appropriate training through
the curriculum and events arranged by the school. Pupils understand the importance of a balanced
lifestyle and the need to develop mental resilience, and there are strong structures to support them.
Pupils are appreciative of the support they receive from their teachers and know how to report any
concerns they may have. Pupils say they are valued as individuals and feel well looked after, supported
by the very high quality of pastoral care they routinely receive.
4. Inspection Evidence
4.1 The inspectors observed lessons, had discussions with pupils and examined samples of pupils’ work.
They held discussions with members of staff and with the chair of governors, observed a sample of
the extra-curricular activities that occurred during the inspection period, and attended house and year
group assemblies, and tutor meetings. Inspectors visited the learning support and educational
resource areas. Inspectors considered the responses of parents, staff and pupils to pre-inspection
questionnaires. The inspectors examined curriculum and other documentation made available by the
school.
Inspectors
Mrs Pamela Johnson Reporting inspector
Mr David Williams Compliance team inspector (Former head, IAPS school)
Mrs Sandra Clements Team inspector (Former deputy head, GDST and GSA school)
Mrs Pamela Hutley Team inspector (Former headteacher, ISA school)
Dr Antony Johns Team inspector (Former senior leader, HMC school)
Mr Simon Leyshon Team inspector (Former head, ISA school)