Twickenham Preparatory School

Twickenham Preparatory School is an independent co-educational day school located in Hampton, housed in a grade II listed building. Founded in 1969, the school moved to its current location in 1992. It serves children from the Early Years Foundation Stage, aged four to five, through to junior pupils aged five to eleven, and senior prep boys aged eleven to thirteen, with female pupils leaving at age eleven. The school operates as a charitable trust overseen by a board of governors. Since the last inspection, the school has expanded its facilities, adding a building for art and design technology, new classrooms, and a digital media suite, while also enhancing the outdoor learning area for the Reception class. The current headmaster, Mr. Oliver Barrett, has been in position since September 2020.

The school aims to create a safe, caring, and happy environment where pupils are valued and can thrive. It emphasizes the importance of celebrating diverse faiths and cultures within a Christian context, instilling core values that encourage pupils to treat others with respect and kindness. The student body is drawn from the local area and includes a variety of professional backgrounds. Nationally standardized test data indicates that the pupils' abilities are above average compared to national benchmarks. The school has identified 48 pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, with 45 receiving additional support. Additionally, 39 pupils are identified as having English as an additional language, with four receiving extra assistance.

The regulatory compliance inspection conducted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate confirmed that Twickenham Preparatory School meets the standards set forth in the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014, as well as the relevant requirements of the Early Years Foundation Stage statutory framework. The inspection highlighted that the school has effective measures in place for safeguarding, promoting good behavior, preventing bullying, and ensuring health and safety. The school maintains appropriate supervision of pupils and keeps accurate admission and attendance records. The suitability of staff is ensured through appropriate checks, and the premises are well-maintained, providing suitable facilities for pupils' medical and therapy needs.

The quality of education provided at the school is commendable, with a documented curriculum that covers a broad range of subjects and supports pupils in making good progress. The teaching is characterized by effective behavior management and the use of suitable resources. Pupils receive comprehensive relationships education, and the school has consulted parents regarding its policies in this area. The school’s framework for assessment confirms that pupils are making good progress, and the standards relating to the quality of education are met.

The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted, fostering responsible and tolerant citizens. The school’s ethos encourages pupils to engage with different cultures and faiths, enhancing their understanding and respect for diversity. The welfare, health, and safety of pupils are prioritized, with arrangements in place to safeguard their well-being and promote good behavior. The school has a strategic approach to risk assessment and maintains a disability access plan.

The leadership and management of the school demonstrate good skills and knowledge, ensuring that the standards are consistently met and promoting the well-being of pupils. The school effectively communicates a range of information to parents, including details about its ethos, curriculum, and policies regarding admissions, behavior, and health and safety. Complaints from parents are handled through a structured process, ensuring transparency and accountability.

The educational quality inspection revealed that the pupils' academic achievements are excellent. They exhibit strong communication skills, articulating their thoughts with clarity and confidence. Pupils demonstrate high levels of knowledge and understanding across subjects, developing excellent study skills and the ability to think independently. Their attitudes towards learning are positive, and they engage enthusiastically in their education. The school encourages pupils to take initiative and responsibility for their learning, fostering a sense of independence.

Pupils' personal development is also rated as excellent. They show a deep understanding of spiritual matters and demonstrate respect for individuals from diverse backgrounds. Their moral understanding is well-developed, and they are aware of the impact of their behavior on others. The school promotes a culture of kindness and respect, with pupils actively engaging in community-building activities. They are encouraged to reflect on their actions and understand the importance of making positive choices.

The school provides numerous opportunities for pupils to excel in both academic and non-academic pursuits. Pupils participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and drama, and they achieve high standards in these areas. The school’s commitment to fostering a competitive yet supportive environment helps pupils develop a healthy sense of ambition and motivation.

Overall, Twickenham Preparatory School is characterized by its strong commitment to providing a high-quality education in a nurturing environment. The school successfully meets regulatory standards and promotes the holistic development of its pupils, preparing them for future academic and personal success. The positive relationships among pupils, staff, and the wider community contribute to a vibrant school culture where every child is encouraged to thrive.