Hornsby House School

Hornsby House School, located in the London Borough of Wandsworth, is a co-educational day school that caters to children aged 4 to 11. The school has a total enrollment of 441 pupils, including 59 in the early years, spread across three Reception classes. The school is committed to providing a broad and balanced education, promoting kindness, self-esteem, and inclusivity. It aims to prepare children for the next stages of their education and life beyond.

The recent inspection conducted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate from March 19 to 21, 2024, evaluated the school’s adherence to the Independent School Standards. The inspection team comprised four inspectors who engaged in various activities, including lesson observations, discussions with staff and pupils, and scrutiny of documentation and pupils’ work. The findings indicate that the school meets all relevant standards across various domains, including leadership and management, quality of education, pupils’ physical and mental health, social and economic education, and safeguarding.

Leadership at Hornsby House School is characterized by a clear vision that aligns with the school’s aims and values. The school promotes a nurturing environment where pupils feel safe and supported. Initiatives such as heart week, which emphasizes courtesy and kindness, are integral to the school culture. The governing body plays an active role in supporting and challenging school leaders, ensuring that policies are effectively implemented and that the well-being of pupils is prioritized.

The quality of education provided at Hornsby House School is commendable. The curriculum is well-planned and includes a wide range of subjects, enabling pupils to develop knowledge and skills across various disciplines. Effective teaching practices stimulate interest and engagement, fostering a positive attitude towards learning. However, the inspection noted some inconsistency in the quality of teaching, with certain lessons lacking clarity and effective planning, which can hinder pupil progress.

Pupils at Hornsby House School benefit from a supportive environment that addresses their academic, emotional, and physical needs. The school has established appropriate procedures to identify and support pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and those who speak English as an additional language (EAL). The inclusive sports program and a variety of extracurricular activities contribute to the development of pupils’ physical skills and promote teamwork and leadership.

The school places a strong emphasis on personal, social, health, and economic education (PSHE), which fosters mutual respect and celebrates individual differences. Pupils are encouraged to engage in discussions with trusted adults, helping them build self-confidence and self-esteem. The school’s approach to behavior management is effective, with rewards and sanctions administered consistently, promoting positive behavior throughout the school community.

Hornsby House School also prioritizes the physical and mental health of its pupils. The school provides a safe and secure environment, with effective risk management practices in place. Pupils are supervised appropriately, and the school has a robust anti-bullying policy that is actively enforced. The well-being of pupils is further supported through initiatives such as the wellbeing club and chat and chill sessions, which offer informal opportunities for pupils to discuss their concerns.

In terms of social and economic education, the school emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion. Pupils learn about fundamental British values, including democracy and individual liberty, through the PSHE curriculum and school assemblies. The annual rainbow day celebrates neurodiversity and different family structures, fostering an understanding of various cultures and backgrounds. Pupils are encouraged to take responsibility for their behavior and engage in discussions about internet safety and personal responsibility.

The school’s commitment to community involvement is evident through various initiatives. Pupils participate in local activities, such as gardening projects and performances in care homes, which help them develop a sense of social responsibility. The school also organizes events like entrepreneurial week, where pupils collaborate to develop business concepts, enhancing their understanding of economics and teamwork.

Safeguarding measures at Hornsby House School are robust and effective. The school has a comprehensive safeguarding policy that is regularly reviewed and communicated to staff. All staff members receive appropriate training in safeguarding procedures, ensuring they are equipped to recognize and report concerns. The school maintains a safe environment for pupils, with effective monitoring of online safety and emotional well-being.

Overall, Hornsby House School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education that meets the diverse needs of its pupils. The school’s leadership, inclusive practices, and emphasis on well-being contribute to a positive learning environment where pupils can thrive academically and socially. The inspection findings affirm that the school meets all relevant standards, and the recommended next steps focus on further enhancing the quality of education by ensuring consistent and effective teaching practices across all subjects.