» An inspector calls
In May 2007, Roedean received a visit from the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI). Here is a summary of what they had to say
Roedean is very successful in its aims to provide a stimulating, academic education and exciting extra-curricular opportunities. These are achieved by a combination of strong academic and pastoral support and the special factor of the richly cosmopolitan pupil population. The school shows a very high commitment to preparing its pupils for their lives at university and in the wider world. Levels of achievement are high, pupils are encouraged to explore their talents, strive for excellence and develop their intellectual curiosity.
The quality of pupils’ attitude to work is high. They come to lessons expecting to work hard. They are articulate, listen carefully, write fluently, read intelligently and argue cogently. They have fun in lessons and, in a relaxed atmosphere, feel confident to risk their ideas and have them challenged by others.
The school’s aim to ‘establish multicultural understanding and respect’ is reflected in the relationships amongst pupils originating from over 40 countries. Within this community pupils develop very high levels of confidence and selfworth. They have a strong spiritual awareness, their social development is excellent and their social skills highly developed. They are lively yet courteous. Pupils’ cultural awareness is outstanding. "Remember we have grown up together" was a typical comment "and it is great having friends from all over the world." Roedean’s ethos of inclusiveness means that pupils are able to express themselves openly, with confidence, in the many academic, sporting and creative activities in which they can participate, whatever their level of ability.
Staff teach effectively and are successful in promoting pupils’ learning and achievements, and in contributing to strong performance in public examinations at GCSE and A level. A feature of the best teaching is the class discussions, which encourage pupils to debate ideas and concepts and think and learn for themselves. Teachers convey authority and enthusiasm, and display a wealth of knowledge well beyond their own subject. This contributes to the positive way pupils respond to the teaching. Relationships between staff and pupils are excellent.
"Don’t be afraid to walk on the wild side. Don’t be afraid to sing the loudest. Don’t be afraid to be creative. Don’t be afraid to be a friend. Don’t be afraid to be yourself"
Parents made highly favourable comments, describing the pupils as happy and confident. They also commented on the friendly and supportive atmosphere in the school. Pupils across the school said that they felt well supported and could have open conversations with the staff. In essence, Roedean has developed a school community at ease with itself. Parents saw their daughters as ‘children of the world’ and were delighted by this aspect of their education. Behaviour in the school is exemplary. Pupils are courteous and considerate of other people, showing respect for staff and each other. The atmosphere of support, friendship, individuality and fun was encapsulated in the verse written by one Year 7 pupil: "Don’t be afraid to walk on the wild side/Don’t be afraid to sing the loudest /Don’t be afraid to be creative/Don’t be afraid to be a friend/Don’t be afraid to be yourself."
For the full report visit www.roedean.co.uk
