Mylnhurst Catholic Prep School & Nursery

Mylnhurst Preparatory School and Nursery, located in Ecclesall, Sheffield, is an independent co-educational day school that has been serving the community since its founding in 1933 by the Roman Catholic Sisters of Mercy. The school transitioned to lay management in 1996 and operates as a company limited by guarantee and a registered charity. It caters to children aged 3 to 11 years, comprising an Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) for younger children and a Prep department for older pupils. The current headmistress, Mrs. Hannah Cunningham, was appointed in September 2020, and a new board of directors took office in February 2022.

The school aims to create a nurturing and secure environment that prioritizes the well-being of its pupils. It seeks to inspire students through a rich and balanced curriculum that includes both classroom learning and extracurricular activities. The school emphasizes the development of responsible local, national, and global citizens, fostering confidence, resilience, and a growth mindset within a supportive Christian community.

The student body primarily consists of children from professional and business families of British origin, residing within a ten-mile radius of the school. Nationally standardized data indicates that the pupils' abilities are above average compared to their peers. The school has identified 34 pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), with 30 receiving additional support. The curriculum is tailored to meet the needs of all students, including those who are more able.

In February 2022, the Independent Schools Inspectorate conducted a focused compliance and educational quality inspection. The inspection confirmed that Mylnhurst Preparatory School meets the standards set forth in the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014 and the relevant requirements of the Early Years Foundation Stage statutory framework. The inspection highlighted the school's commitment to safeguarding, promoting the welfare of pupils, and ensuring their health and safety. The school has effective measures in place to prevent bullying and maintain a safe environment.

The quality of education provided at Mylnhurst is commendable, with pupils making good progress across the curriculum. The documented curriculum is supported by appropriate plans and schemes of work, ensuring that pupils receive a broad and balanced education. The teaching staff employs effective behavior management strategies and utilizes suitable resources to enhance learning. Relationships education is integrated into the curriculum, and the school has consulted parents to develop a written policy in line with statutory guidance.

The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted, fostering responsible and tolerant citizens. The school encourages pupils to engage with their community and develop a strong sense of social responsibility. The welfare, health, and safety of pupils are prioritized, with appropriate arrangements for first aid, supervision, and risk assessment in place. The school maintains accurate admission and attendance registers and has a disability access plan to ensure inclusivity.

The suitability of staff is rigorously checked, and the school maintains a register as required. The premises are well-maintained, providing suitable facilities for pupils' medical and therapy needs, as well as adequate outdoor space for physical education and play. The school publishes a range of information for parents, including details about the curriculum, admissions, behavior policies, and the complaints procedure.

The complaints handling process is effective, with a clear three-stage procedure in place. 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 educational quality inspection revealed that the quality of pupils' academic and other achievements is excellent. Pupils exhibit positive attitudes towards learning, demonstrating enthusiasm and hard work. They are excellent communicators, displaying maturity in their interactions with teachers and peers. Across the curriculum, pupils show strong knowledge, skills, and understanding, achieving high standards in both academic and extracurricular activities.

Pupils' personal development is also rated as excellent. They exhibit a high level of spiritual understanding and appreciation for non-material aspects of life. The school fosters courteous and polite behavior, encouraging pupils to take responsibility for their actions and respect diverse cultures. Social development and collaboration skills are well-developed, with pupils forming kind and caring relationships with one another.

The school encourages pupils to develop resilience and self-confidence, providing opportunities for independent thought and decision-making. Pupils engage in a variety of creative and physical pursuits, supported by a wide-ranging extracurricular program. They are successful in various competitions and examinations, showcasing their talents in sports, music, and drama.

Pupils demonstrate a genuine desire to succeed and are willing to take risks in their learning. They understand the importance of making mistakes as part of the learning process and exhibit mutual support for one another. The school promotes a culture of respect and kindness, with pupils actively contributing to the school community through roles such as prefects and members of the school council.

Overall, Mylnhurst Preparatory School and Nursery provides a high-quality education that fosters academic excellence, personal development, and social responsibility. The school's commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals is evident in its comprehensive curriculum, supportive environment, and emphasis on the well-being of its pupils. The positive outcomes of the inspection reflect the school's dedication to maintaining high standards and continuously improving the educational experience for all students.