St David's Prep

St David’s Prep is an independent co-educational day school located in West Wickham, Kent, catering for children aged between three and eleven. Founded in 1926, the school has a rich history and was privately owned until 2015 when it became part of the Wishford Schools Group. The governance structure includes a sole proprietor who chairs both St David’s Prep Limited and the Wishford Schools Group, supported by an executive team and a non-executive advisory group. The school currently has 195 pupils enrolled, including 51 in the early years, which consists of a Pre-Reception class and two separate Reception classes. The school is committed to providing a respectful, safe, and inclusive environment that fosters the academic, personal, and social development of each child.

The recent inspection conducted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate from January 30 to February 1, 2024, highlighted several strengths of the school. The leadership and management of the school are effective, with the executive team actively involved in quality assurance and oversight of the school's operations. Regular visits by the executive team ensure that leaders and managers fulfill their responsibilities and that the statutory Independent School Standards are met. The school has established a culture of continuous improvement, with leaders constantly seeking to innovate and enhance the educational experience for pupils.

The curriculum at St David’s Prep is comprehensive and covers all required areas of learning, supplemented by a diverse range of recreational activities and sports. The school’s approach to education emphasizes the importance of individual progress, and all children are reported to make good progress in their learning. Teachers demonstrate good subject knowledge and effectively utilize classroom resources, although some inconsistencies in lesson planning were noted, leading to variations in the effectiveness of teaching across different subjects and year groups.

Pupils at St David’s Prep exhibit positive behavior and a strong sense of responsibility towards their peers and the wider community. They are encouraged to take initiative and understand their role in contributing positively to society. The school promotes a sense of community and belonging, with pupils actively participating in various initiatives that benefit both the school and the local area. The emphasis on social responsibility is evident in the school’s ethos, which aligns with British values of respect and tolerance.

The school places a strong emphasis on the physical and mental well-being of its pupils. Comprehensive health and safety protocols, along with effective safeguarding measures, ensure that children feel safe and supported in their environment. The school’s physical education curriculum extends beyond core lessons, offering numerous opportunities for pupils to engage in physical activities before school, after school, and during break times. Pupils express enthusiasm for participating in various sports and recreational activities, highlighting the importance of a healthy lifestyle.

In terms of emotional well-being, the school implements programs that promote self-knowledge, self-esteem, and self-confidence among pupils. The use of positive language and visual aids in early years classrooms reinforces appropriate behavior and fosters empathy among children. The school’s approach to personal and health education includes lessons on relationships, ensuring that pupils understand the importance of making safe and appropriate choices in their interactions with others.

While the school has many strengths, the inspection report identified areas for improvement. One key recommendation is for leaders to enhance the systematic use of academic and pastoral information to better identify and monitor each child's needs. This would facilitate a more cohesive approach to supporting pupils and addressing any concerns that arise. Additionally, the consistency of teaching and learning across year groups should be monitored more closely to maximize the progress of all pupils.

The school’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in its support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. The school has identified 22 pupils requiring additional support, and appropriate measures are in place to ensure that these children receive the necessary assistance to thrive in their learning environment. The school also caters to pupils for whom English is an additional language, providing targeted support to help them achieve fluency.

St David’s Prep actively promotes the development of social and economic understanding among its pupils. The curriculum is designed to prepare children for the opportunities and responsibilities they will encounter in British society. Through various programs, pupils learn about empathy, cooperation, and collaboration, which are essential skills for their future interactions. The school encourages pupils to engage with their local community, fostering a sense of belonging and responsibility.

The inspection concluded that all relevant standards are met, affirming the school’s dedication to providing a high-quality education. The leadership team is encouraged to continue its efforts in fostering a culture of improvement and to address the identified areas for development. The positive feedback from the inspection reflects the school’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals who are prepared for the challenges of the future.

Overall, St David’s Prep stands out as a nurturing and inclusive environment where pupils are encouraged to develop academically, socially, and emotionally. The school’s strong leadership, comprehensive curriculum, and emphasis on well-being contribute to a positive educational experience for all students. As the school continues to evolve and adapt to the needs of its pupils, it remains dedicated to upholding its values and providing a supportive community for learning and growth.