Unicorn School
238 Kew Road, Richmond, TW9 3JX
Pupils
169
Ages
3 - 11
Gender
Co-educational
Type
Primary
Head Teacher
Mrs Polly Fraley
Boarding / Day
Day
Fees
£2,730 to £5,010
ISC Associations
IAPS, ISBA
Religion
Non-denominational
Bursaries
Available
About Unicorn School
Unicorn School, located in the picturesque area of Richmond, offers a unique educational experience for children aged three to eleven. As a co-educational primary school, it provides a nurturing environment where both boys and girls can thrive academically and socially. The school prides itself on being non-denominational, welcoming students from all faiths and backgrounds, which fosters a diverse and inclusive community.
The curriculum at Unicorn School is designed to engage young minds and encourage a love for learning. Core subjects such as English, Mathematics, and Science are taught with a focus on developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The school also places a strong emphasis on the arts, with Music, Drama, and Art being integral parts of the curriculum. This well-rounded approach ensures that students receive a balanced education that caters to a variety of interests and talents.
One of the standout features of Unicorn School is its commitment to small class sizes, which allows for personalised attention and tailored instruction. This approach is particularly beneficial for younger students, as it enables teachers to identify and nurture individual strengths and address any areas of difficulty promptly. The dedicated staff, including the Head of Learning Support, work closely with students to ensure that each child reaches their full potential.
The school’s facilities are designed to support a wide range of activities and learning experiences. Classrooms are well-equipped with modern technology, providing students with access to digital resources that enhance their learning. The outdoor spaces are equally impressive, offering ample opportunities for physical education and play. These facilities contribute to a stimulating environment where children can explore and develop their skills in a safe and supportive setting.
Extra-curricular activities play a significant role in the life of the school, offering students the chance to pursue interests beyond the classroom. From sports clubs to music ensembles, there is something for everyone. These activities not only help students develop new skills but also promote teamwork, leadership, and resilience. Participation in extra-curricular activities is encouraged, as it complements the academic curriculum and contributes to the overall wellbeing of the students.
Parental involvement is highly valued at Unicorn School, with regular communication between the school and families. Parents are encouraged to take an active role in their child’s education, and the school provides numerous opportunities for them to engage with the school community. This partnership between home and school is crucial in supporting students’ academic and personal development.
The school’s ethos is centred around creating a supportive and inclusive environment where every child feels valued and respected. This is reflected in the positive relationships between students and staff, as well as the strong sense of community within the school. The emphasis on kindness, respect, and responsibility helps to create a harmonious atmosphere where students can flourish.
In summary, Unicorn School offers a comprehensive and engaging educational experience for young learners. Its commitment to small class sizes, a diverse curriculum, and a supportive community makes it an excellent choice for families seeking a nurturing environment for their children. The school’s focus on both academic and personal development ensures that students are well-prepared for the next stage of their education and beyond.
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ISI Review
Unicorn School, an independent co-educational day school located in Richmond, Surrey, has been recognized for its commitment to providing a nurturing and creative environment for its pupils. Founded in 1970, the school serves children aged 3 to 11 and is organized into three sections: the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), infants, and juniors. The school has undergone significant leadership changes since the last inspection, with a new headteacher appointed in 2021 and a new co-chair of governors in early 2022.
The school aims to foster independence, responsibility, self-awareness, and kindness among its pupils, while offering a broad curriculum designed to promote success. Most students come from professional backgrounds, and the school has identified a diverse range of abilities among its pupils, with a significant number receiving additional support for special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and English as an additional language (EAL).
In the recent focused compliance and educational quality inspection, Unicorn School was found to meet all regulatory standards set forth by the Independent Schools Inspectorate. The inspection highlighted the school's effective teaching practices, which enable pupils to make good progress academically. The curriculum is well-documented and supported by appropriate plans and resources, ensuring that pupils receive a comprehensive education that includes relationships education.
The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted, fostering responsible and tolerant citizens. The school has established robust arrangements for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of its pupils, including effective behavior management and health and safety measures. The school maintains appropriate checks to ensure the suitability of staff and has adequate facilities for pupils' medical and therapy needs.
The school provides a wealth of information to parents and stakeholders, including details about its ethos, curriculum, and policies on admissions, behavior, and complaints. Complaints are handled effectively through a structured process, ensuring transparency and accountability. Leadership and management demonstrate strong skills and knowledge, consistently meeting the required standards.
The educational quality inspection revealed that pupils achieve excellent academic outcomes, attributed to high expectations from both senior leaders and teachers. Pupils develop strong communication skills, particularly in speaking and presenting, and excel in information and communication technology (ICT). While pupils exhibit well-developed study skills, there is room for improvement in higher-order thinking skills such as analyzing and synthesizing information.
Pupils' personal development is equally impressive, with high levels of self-understanding, confidence, and resilience. Their behavior is exemplary, supported by a well-developed moral understanding. The school encourages teamwork and collaboration, with pupils actively participating in various activities that promote social skills and a sense of community.
The school fosters a strong sense of moral responsibility, with pupils demonstrating kindness and respect for one another. They are aware of the importance of making good choices and understand the impact of their actions on others. The school's commitment to diversity and cultural understanding is evident, with pupils valuing the multicultural society in which they live.
Pupils are encouraged to take ownership of their learning and develop independence, although there is potential for further enhancement in this area. The school provides numerous opportunities for pupils to engage in extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and drama, contributing to their overall development and success beyond the classroom.
Overall, Unicorn School exemplifies a commitment to educational excellence, fostering a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils. The school's focus on academic achievement, personal development, and social responsibility prepares students to become well-rounded individuals ready to face future challenges. The positive relationships between staff and pupils, along with the school's emphasis on kindness and respect, create a vibrant community where every child can thrive.
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Last Updated: 8 October 2024