Sir George Monoux College

Overview

The report describes a sixth form college where students develop their wider interests “exceptionally well” through a “carefully planned personal development curriculum.” Leaders have created a “highly inclusive and harmonious environment” with a strong focus on social mobility, ensuring students from diverse backgrounds study peacefully together.

Strengths

• Students value the “rich choice of experiences and activities” that build skills for higher education or employment, such as the ‘read to succeed’ initiative.
• Teaching is generally effective, with teachers providing “useful feedback” and using techniques like visualisers and peer challenge to help students “think hard and articulate their answers.”
• The college makes a “reasonable contribution to meeting skills needs” by adapting the curriculum to local priorities, including new T-levels in health and digital sectors.
• Students with high needs are supported well, achieving “as well as, or better than, their peers” through adapted strategies and assistive technology.
• Students feel safe and respected, valuing the “knowledgeable and kind safeguarding team” and the support of personal mentors.

Areas to improve

• Leaders must continue action plans to increase the proportion of students achieving grades A* to B in A-level sciences and mathematics, where results remain “too low.”
• Improvement plans must be implemented to raise attendance in the minority of courses where it is currently “too low.”

Safeguarding

The report states that “the arrangements for safeguarding are effective.”