Ralph Allen School has been praised by Ofsted for its ‘ambitious and well-sequenced curriculum,’ maintaining its ‘Good school’ standards as the report highly commends the staff, leaders and pupils.
The community-focused school based in Combe Down, Bath, is part of the Palladian Academy Trust family and has been recognised for its strong staff and supportive environment for its pupils. The report highlights how the pupils ‘are proud of their school’ and comments on how they ‘reflect the school’s ethos in the way they talk about expectations, celebration, and traditions.’ Parents also ‘speak highly about the ethos of the school.’
Ofsted’s report praises the school’s high expectations for its students and highlights the passion of its teachers and the enthusiasm of its students. It also recognises the effective ‘integration’ and partnership between the school and Palladian Academy Trust, noting that ‘staff are well supported to train and share expertise trust-wide.’
Ralph Allen School offers a diverse range of enrichment activities catering to all interests, which ‘excites’ and engages its students. This aligns seamlessly with the Palladian Academy Trust’s values of providing ‘excellent and equitable opportunities so everyone can flourish’.
From students who embrace the challenges of the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme, to those involved in the school’s quality productions such as The Sound of Music, active participation is encouraged throughout every part of school life. The report notes how staff regularly ask for feedback from their students, to ensure that there are opportunities for all students to thrive.
The school’s curriculum planning has evolved to be ambitious and well-structured, reflecting teachers’ passion and expertise. Sixth-form students are offered a broad array of subjects, paving the way for university aspirations.
Ralph Allen School is focused on supporting pupils with additional needs through curriculum changes, making sure any adaptions are well implemented. The report notes that teachers are more knowledgeable and able to assist in helping all students learn effectively. Pupils with SEND are ‘well supported when making their work experience placements’ and all students are ‘ambitious about their future plans.’
Nathan Jenkins joined the school as headteacher this academic year, along with new members of the senior team, and has prioritised renewing focus on supporting pupils with a wide range of needs. The report credits the school’s inclusive provision.
“We are delighted to receive this report, which highlights many of the strengths and achievements of Ralph Allen School,” said Nathan. “We were pleased to receive the result of ‘Good’, as it was the very best outcome we could achieve through this type of inspection.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our school community for their incredible contributions and continued support. My gratitude extends to our students, parents and carers, our school and trust staff, and our highly valued volunteers such as our governors, trustees and partners.
“Through our combined efforts I am confident that Ralph Allen will continue to provide our students with a great educational experience. They will continue to go on to further and higher education and employment with the skills and knowledge they require to be successful.”
Donna Tandy was appointed CEO of Palladian Academy Trust in 2022. Along with the trust’s Central Team, Donna works closely with Nathan and Ralph Allen School’s Leadership Team. She commented, “I am delighted to see the difference Nathan and the entire staff team at Ralph Allen School are making to all of its students, their families and the wider school community.
“I am pleased that the inspectors have recognised the positive impact the new leadership team, and the close working relationship between the trust and school, has had on the school’s educational provision. I really look forward to what we can achieve together in the future.”