The Gryphon School is ‘Outstanding’
The Gryphon School has been judged as outstanding in its distinctiveness and effectiveness as a Church of England School. The Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS) Report praises the School’s excellent pastoral care. It says that the School, through its distinctive Christian character, is outstanding at meeting the needs of all learners. It goes on to say the School’s values described and promoted as explicitly Christian, as well as relevant to all, have a profound impact on relationships, attitudes and behaviour throughout the School. It’s the second time in a row that the School has been given outstanding by Church of England Inspectors.
The report highlights the high profile and respect for the School Chaplain, which it says is a strong demonstration of the School’s Christian foundation and care. Students, it notes, readily report that all are welcomed and people are not judged for their beliefs. The report says a respect for and understanding of diversity, supported by the Religious Education curriculum, results in an openness and willingness to discuss and explore issues of faith. Leaders, including governors, have a very clear, consistently promoted understanding of how The Gryphon School is distinctive in its Christian character whilst being entirely inclusive as the only maintained secondary school in the town. This creates a harmonious learning community in which every individual is valued.
The report also commends the rich variety of opportunities, for example, in drama, art, music and sport which are provided at The Gryphon School.
Joy Tubbs, Director of Education for the Salisbury Diocese, congratulated the School on the outstanding outcome of the SIAMS inspection. “It is evident” she said, “that the welcoming, friendly and supportive atmosphere enables everyone to thrive. The inclusiveness and excellent pastoral care of the academy shines through as it looks beyond academic and professional issues to personal and spiritual wellbeing.”
Headteacher, Steve Hillier, says he is delighted with the report’s findings. ”We continue to be the local community school welcoming students of all faiths and cultures. Friendliness, a strong sense of community with support and care for everyone and each other is at the core of The Gryphon School’s ethos and we are delighted that this has been recognised in the SIAMS Report.”
The full report can be found at https://www.gryphon.dorset.sch.uk/parents/about-the-school/siams/
