Carleton House Preparatory School

Carleton House Preparatory School, an independent co-educational day school located in Liverpool, was established in 1974 by a group of parents aiming to maintain the traditions and values of a Catholic education. The school operates as a charitable trust overseen by a board of governors. Since the last inspection, there have been changes in leadership, including the appointment of a new chair of governors and a new deputy headteacher. The school is divided into three sections: the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) for children aged three, the lower school for Years 1 and 2, and the upper school for Years 3 to 6.

The school aims to help pupils reach their full potential across various dimensions—intellectual, moral, spiritual, emotional, and physical. It seeks to inspire a love of learning, foster intellectual curiosity, and broaden cultural horizons. The mission statement, We love, live, and learn with Jesus, reflects the school's commitment to being an inclusive and welcoming community rooted in Catholic values. The majority of pupils come from families with professional backgrounds and diverse cultural heritages, with approximately half identifying as Roman Catholic. The school’s assessment data indicates that pupils generally possess above-average abilities, and it provides support for those with special educational needs and disabilities.

The inspection conducted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) assessed the school’s compliance with the Independent School Standards and the Early Years Foundation Stage statutory framework. The inspection focused on key areas, including safeguarding, health and safety, staff suitability, and the quality of education provided. The findings confirmed that the school meets all applicable standards, with no further action required.

The quality of education at Carleton House is characterized by effective teaching that enables pupils to make good progress. The curriculum is well-documented and supported by appropriate plans and resources, ensuring a broad range of material is covered. The school provides relationships education in the junior school, adhering to statutory guidance and consulting parents on its policy. The assessment framework in place allows for the effective monitoring of pupils' performance.

The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted, fostering responsible and tolerant citizens. The school’s arrangements for safeguarding and promoting pupils' welfare are robust, with measures in place to prevent bullying and ensure health and safety standards are met. The school maintains proper supervision of pupils and keeps accurate attendance records, alongside a strategic approach to risk assessment.

The school has established appropriate checks to ensure the suitability of staff and maintains a register as required. Facilities are well-maintained, providing suitable accommodation for pupils' medical and therapy needs, and outdoor spaces for physical education and play are adequate. The school publishes a range of information for parents, including details about its ethos, curriculum, and arrangements for admissions and behaviour.

Parental complaints are handled effectively through a structured process, ensuring transparency and accountability. The leadership and management of the school demonstrate good skills and knowledge, fulfilling their responsibilities effectively and promoting pupils' well-being.

The educational quality inspection highlighted that the pupils' academic achievements are excellent. They demonstrate exceptional engagement in lessons and possess strong communication skills, articulating their ideas clearly and developing sophisticated vocabulary and writing skills over time. Pupils exhibit high competence in information and communication technology, applying their skills across the curriculum.

The personal development of pupils is also rated as excellent. They show a deep understanding of values and virtues, appreciate inclusivity, and take on various responsibilities, demonstrating care for others. The school provides numerous opportunities for pupils to engage in extracurricular activities, enhancing their skills in the performing arts, sports, and other areas.

Recommendations from the inspection include ensuring that children in the EYFS can fully develop their decision-making skills in outdoor settings and continuing to develop curriculum links to enhance pupils' analytical and synthesis skills. The school is encouraged to maintain its focus on fostering a love of learning and intellectual curiosity.

Overall, Carleton House Preparatory School provides a nurturing environment where pupils thrive academically and personally. The school’s commitment to its mission and values, combined with effective leadership and a supportive community, contributes to the positive experiences of its pupils. The school’s focus on inclusivity, personal development, and high academic standards positions it as a strong educational institution within the community.