The Cavendish School

The Cavendish School, an independent day school for girls aged three to eleven, was founded in 1875 by the Society of the Holy Child Jesus and has been located at its current site since 1970. The school is a registered charity governed by a board of governors. The current headmistress, Mrs. Taryn Lombard, has been in her role since April 2021, and the school has seen significant developments, including the establishment of a new performance hall and five classrooms since the last inspection.

The school aims to provide a high-quality, caring learning environment that fosters a partnership between home, school, and the wider community. It strives to create resilient, curious, and open-minded learners who engage enthusiastically with the joy of learning and are prepared to make a positive impact in the world. The curriculum is designed to be broad, stimulating, and challenging, ensuring that pupils are well-prepared for the next stages of their education.

Pupils at The Cavendish School come from diverse professional backgrounds and represent a mix of national and cultural heritages. Assessment data indicates that their abilities are above average compared to national standards. The school has identified 43 pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, with 40 receiving additional support. English is an additional language for 19 pupils, of whom ten receive extra help. The curriculum is adapted to meet the needs of pupils with particular talents or abilities.

The recent focused compliance and educational quality inspection revealed that the school does not meet all the required standards set out in the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014. The inspection included a detailed examination of key standards related to safeguarding, health and safety, staff suitability, information provision, complaints handling, and leadership and management. While the school met many standards, deficiencies were noted, particularly in the handling of complaints and the effectiveness of leadership and management.

The quality of education provided at The Cavendish School is generally strong. The school’s assessment framework confirms that teaching enables pupils to make good progress. The curriculum is well-documented and supported by appropriate plans and schemes of work, covering the required breadth of material. Pupils receive relationships education, and the school has consulted parents on its policy, which aligns with statutory guidance.

The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted, facilitating their growth as responsible and tolerant citizens. The school has established a positive environment where good behavior is encouraged, and bullying is effectively addressed. Health and safety requirements are met, including fire safety and first aid provisions, and pupils are properly supervised.

The school has appropriate measures in place to ensure the suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors, maintaining a register as required. The premises are well-maintained, providing suitable facilities for pupils’ medical and therapy needs, and outdoor spaces for physical education and play are adequate.

Information is effectively communicated to parents, inspectors, and the Department for Education, covering various aspects of the school’s operations, including its ethos, curriculum, and arrangements for admission and behavior. The school has a three-stage complaints process, but it was noted that complaints are not always appropriately identified and managed according to this process.

Leadership and management at The Cavendish School require improvement. The proprietor has not ensured that leadership demonstrates the necessary skills and knowledge to consistently meet all standards and promote pupil well-being effectively. Action points have been identified to address these deficiencies.

The educational quality inspection highlighted that the quality of pupils’ academic and other achievements is excellent. Pupils are high achievers, benefiting from effective assessment frameworks and individualized support from teachers. They demonstrate excellent communication skills and apply their knowledge across various subjects. The school’s commitment to a broad curriculum encourages pupils to develop their interests and talents through extensive extracurricular opportunities, including music, sports, and arts.

Pupils exhibit strong study skills, actively engaging in their learning and demonstrating resilience and self-confidence. They are well-prepared for transitions to senior schools, with the majority of leavers securing places at their chosen institutions. The school’s leadership effectively uses data to support and challenge pupils, ensuring excellent outcomes for all.

Pupils’ personal development is also rated as excellent. They develop self-esteem and social awareness, participating in community initiatives and demonstrating empathy and respect for diversity. The school promotes values of democracy, respect, and tolerance, fostering a sense of responsibility among pupils. They engage in various projects that benefit the local community, showcasing their commitment to making a positive impact.

Pupils’ behavior is exemplary, with a strong understanding of right and wrong. They respect school rules and each other, contributing to a positive school culture. The school emphasizes the importance of physical and mental health, providing opportunities for reflection and mindfulness. Pupils are well-informed about internet safety and demonstrate a strong sense of responsibility for their well-being.

In summary, The Cavendish School provides a nurturing and high-quality educational environment that promotes academic excellence and personal development. While there are areas for improvement in compliance and leadership, the school’s commitment to fostering resilient, curious learners is evident in the achievements and well-being of its pupils. The school continues to strive for excellence, ensuring that all pupils are equipped with the skills and confidence needed for their future endeavors.