Knightsbridge School

Knightsbridge School is an independent preparatory day school located in a residential area of Knightsbridge, London. Established in 2006 by the current Principal, the school is now owned by Dukes Education Ltd. It caters to boys and girls aged three to thirteen years and is housed across two adjoining buildings. The school comprises an Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) for pupils aged three to five, a junior department for those aged five to eight, and a senior department for pupils aged eight to thirteen. Since the last inspection, the school has undergone various refurbishments and has expanded its learning and performing arts spaces by acquiring additional facilities at two local churches.

The school's mission is to create a stimulating, positive, and caring environment that inspires pupils to strive for excellence and achieve their full academic potential. The aim is for pupils to develop a lifelong love of learning, independence, and the values necessary to tackle future challenges successfully. The school prides itself on fostering an environment where pupils can thrive academically and personally.

The student body is diverse, with pupils coming from various professional and business backgrounds, primarily from London and some from surrounding counties. A number of pupils are from overseas, with parents working in London. Nationally standardized tests indicate that the pupils' abilities are above average. The school has identified 81 pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, of which 75 receive additional specialist support. Furthermore, 54 pupils speak English as an additional language, with 26 receiving support for their English language skills. The curriculum is tailored to meet the needs of 37 pupils identified as most able, as well as 48 others with special talents in areas such as art, performing arts, music, and sports.

The regulatory compliance inspection is conducted by the Department for Education (DfE), which oversees independent schools. The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) is responsible for inspecting schools that are members of the Independent Schools Council (ISC) and assessing their compliance with the Independent School Standards. The inspection process evaluates whether the school meets the standards set out in the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014, as well as the requirements of the Early Years Foundation Stage statutory framework.

The recent inspection found that Knightsbridge School meets all the standards outlined in the regulations, with no further action required. The school uses its own framework to assess pupil attainment rather than the national framework. The curriculum is well-documented and supported by appropriate plans and schemes of work, ensuring that pupils make good progress. Effective behavior management and suitable resources support the teaching process, and a framework for assessing pupil performance is in place.

The school actively promotes principles and values that facilitate the personal development of pupils as responsible, tolerant, and law-abiding citizens. The standards related to spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development are met, ensuring that pupils are well-rounded individuals. The school has established arrangements to safeguard and promote the welfare of pupils, adhering to current statutory guidance. Good behavior is encouraged, and measures are in place to prevent bullying. Health and safety requirements, including fire safety, are met, and first aid provisions are available. The school maintains proper supervision of pupils and keeps accurate admission and attendance registers, demonstrating a strategic approach to risk assessment.

Knightsbridge School conducts appropriate checks to ensure the suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors, maintaining a register as required. The premises provide suitable toilet and changing facilities, as well as accommodations for pupils' medical needs. The school is well-maintained, with appropriate acoustics, lighting, and water provision. Adequate outdoor space is available for physical education and outdoor play.

A range of information is published and made available to parents, inspectors, and the DfE, including details about the proprietor, the school's ethos, curriculum, and arrangements for admission, behavior, and exclusions. The school also provides information on health and safety, first aid, the complaints procedure, and the number of complaints registered in the previous school year. The safeguarding policy is accessible on the school's website.

Parental complaints are handled effectively through a three-stage process, which includes informal, formal, and a hearing before an independent panel. Each stage has clear time scales, and the panel can make findings and recommendations communicated to the complainant. Records of complaints and actions taken are maintained appropriately.

The leadership and management of Knightsbridge School demonstrate good skills and knowledge, fulfilling their responsibilities effectively to ensure that all standards are consistently met. The proprietor actively promotes the well-being of pupils, contributing to a positive school environment.

The inspection evidence included lesson observations, formal interviews with pupils, and examination of samples of pupils' work. Inspectors held discussions with staff and the chair of governors, observed extracurricular activities, and visited facilities for the youngest pupils, as well as learning support and educational resource areas. The responses of parents, staff, and pupils to pre-inspection questionnaires were analyzed, and the inspectors reviewed curriculum documentation provided by the school.

Overall, Knightsbridge School has established a strong foundation for providing quality education and ensuring the welfare of its pupils. The school meets all regulatory standards and is committed to fostering an environment that supports the academic and personal development of its students. The positive findings from the inspection reflect the school's dedication to excellence in education and the well-being of its pupils.