Highclare School

Highclare School is an independent co-educational day school located in Erdington and Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham. Established in 1932, it operates as a registered charity overseen by a board of governors. The school comprises four separate locations, including a senior school and sixth form on the main site in Erdington, two preparatory schools, St Paul’s and Woodfield, and various sports facilities nearby. The school has recently raised its entry age to two years, accommodating a diverse range of pupils from professional and business family backgrounds within a 15-mile radius. The school aims to foster independent learning and individual excellence in a secure and happy environment, promoting values such as self-respect, self-discipline, tolerance, and respect for others and the environment.

The school has a total of 521 pupils enrolled, including 104 in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), 199 in preparatory schools, 189 in the senior school, and 29 in the sixth form. The recent inspection took place from April 18 to 20, 2023, focusing on regulatory compliance and educational quality.

The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) conducted a focused compliance inspection, which assessed the school’s adherence to the Independent School Standards and the Early Years Foundation Stage statutory framework. The inspection confirmed that the school meets all applicable standards, including those related to safeguarding, health and safety, staff suitability, premises, information provision, complaints handling, and leadership quality. The school has established effective measures to promote the welfare of pupils, prevent bullying, and ensure health and safety requirements are met. The school maintains appropriate records and has a strategic approach to risk assessment, demonstrating a commitment to providing a safe and supportive environment for all pupils.

In terms of educational quality, the inspection highlighted the school’s strong academic performance. Pupils in the preparatory schools make good progress, and the school’s framework for assessment confirms effective teaching practices. The senior school’s GCSE and A-level results from 2020 to 2022 indicate that pupils achieve good progress, with many attaining grades higher than expected for their ability. The curriculum is well-documented and covers a broad range of subjects, enabling pupils to make good progress. The school provides relationships education in the preparatory schools and relationships and sex education in the senior school, adhering to statutory guidance.

The personal development of pupils is also a key focus, with the school actively promoting principles and values that foster responsible citizenship. Pupils demonstrate high levels of social awareness, respect for diversity, and a strong sense of self-discipline. The school’s commitment to spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development is evident, with pupils engaging in various activities that promote these values. The school encourages pupils to take responsibility for their behavior and fosters a culture of respect and cooperation among students.

The inspection revealed that pupils exhibit excellent communication skills, demonstrating confidence and clarity in their interactions. They engage effectively in discussions, listen attentively, and collaborate well with peers. The school’s emphasis on developing strong numeracy skills is evident, with pupils applying their mathematical knowledge across the curriculum. Information and communication technology skills are also well-developed, with pupils utilizing various platforms to enhance their learning.

Pupils’ attitudes towards learning are highly positive, with strong collaborative skills that support both their own and their peers’ learning. The school provides numerous opportunities for pupils to engage in extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and the arts, fostering a well-rounded educational experience. Pupils achieve notable success in various competitions and initiatives, reflecting their commitment to excellence beyond the classroom.

The school’s approach to personal development is comprehensive, with a focus on nurturing resilience, self-discipline, and social responsibility. Pupils are encouraged to reflect on their learning and personal growth, with support systems in place to assist those facing challenges. The school’s TAKE CHARGE charter empowers pupils to take ownership of their learning, promoting independence and self-awareness.

Throughout the school, pupils demonstrate a strong understanding of the importance of making informed choices and exhibit a well-developed social conscience. They engage in community service and charity work, reflecting their awareness of social responsibilities. The school fosters a sense of community, where pupils are sensitive to the needs of others and actively participate in initiatives that support their peers and the wider community.

The inspection concluded that Highclare School provides a high-quality education that meets the needs of its pupils. The school’s commitment to academic excellence, personal development, and the promotion of positive values creates an environment where pupils can thrive. The leadership and management of the school demonstrate effective skills and knowledge, ensuring that all standards are consistently met. The school’s focus on fostering a supportive and inclusive community contributes to the overall well-being and success of its pupils, preparing them for the next stages of their education and life beyond school.