St George's School

St George’s School Windsor Castle is an independent, co-educational day and boarding school founded in 1348 to educate the boy choristers of St George’s Chapel. The school moved to its current location outside the castle walls in 1895 and became co-educational in 1996, introducing a pre-preparatory department. The school is a registered charity governed by a board that includes the Dean and two Canons of Windsor. The current head has been in position since January 2019, and the school has made significant changes since the last inspection, including the integration of girls into the choir and updates to boarding facilities.

The school aims to ignite inquiry, instill a passion for learning, and foster Christian values. It seeks to ensure that children develop the mindset and skills necessary to navigate life’s opportunities and contribute positively to society. The pupils come from diverse professional backgrounds and demonstrate above-average abilities compared to national standards. The school supports 37 pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, ensuring that all students receive the necessary assistance to thrive academically.

The regulatory compliance inspection confirmed that St George’s School meets all standards set by the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014 and the National Minimum Standards for Boarding Schools. The inspection highlighted the school’s effective safeguarding measures, health and safety protocols, and the suitability of staff. The school maintains a comprehensive approach to risk assessment and has a disability access plan in place. The induction process for new boarders is well-structured, ensuring that they receive appropriate medical care, food, and support for their personal belongings.

The quality of education provided at St George’s is commendable. The school’s assessment framework indicates that teaching enables pupils to make good progress. The curriculum is well-documented and covers a broad range of subjects, supported by effective behavior management and suitable resources. Pupils receive comprehensive relationships education, and the school has consulted parents to ensure that its policies align with statutory guidance.

The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted, fostering responsible and tolerant citizens. Boarders are encouraged to express their views, and their opinions are considered by staff, promoting a sense of community and mutual respect. The school’s prefect system is effectively managed, contributing to a positive school environment.

The welfare, health, and safety of pupils are prioritized, with arrangements in place to safeguard their well-being. The school promotes good behavior, prevents bullying, and meets health and safety requirements, including fire safety. Pupils are supervised appropriately, and attendance registers are maintained as required. The school’s approach to first aid and medical care for boarders is robust, ensuring that their needs are met.

The suitability of staff is rigorously checked, with appropriate measures in place to ensure that all individuals working with pupils are vetted. The school maintains a register of staff suitability and supervises visitors to boarding accommodation effectively. The premises are well-maintained, providing suitable facilities for pupils’ medical needs and ensuring that health and safety standards are met.

The school provides a wealth of information to parents, including details about its ethos, curriculum, and policies on admissions, behavior, and health and safety. The complaints procedure is clear and effective, allowing parents to raise concerns through a structured process. Records of complaints are maintained appropriately, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Leadership and management at St George’s School demonstrate good skills and knowledge, fulfilling their responsibilities effectively. The proprietor ensures that the standards are consistently met, promoting the well-being of pupils. The management of boarding is appropriate, with policies and records maintained effectively.

The educational quality inspection revealed that the quality of pupils’ academic achievements is excellent. Pupils excel in musical performance, demonstrating outstanding skills and knowledge as they progress through the school. Their study skills are well-developed, and they exhibit positive attitudes towards learning. The school’s commitment to high expectations and nurturing pastoral care contributes to strong academic results in standardized tests and entrance examinations for senior schools.

Pupils’ personal development is also excellent, with high levels of self-confidence and self-awareness. They demonstrate a mature sense of moral responsibility and strong collaborative skills, enjoying opportunities to work together. The school fosters an inclusive and welcoming environment, where pupils value diversity and respect one another.

The school encourages pupils to engage in a variety of extracurricular activities, enhancing their overall experience. Senior pupils take on leadership roles, exemplified by their successful commercial radio station. The school’s approach to sports emphasizes teamwork and honesty, promoting a culture of participation and progression.

Pupils display exceptional communication skills, confidently contributing to discussions and debates. They are well-prepared for future challenges, developing the mindset and skills necessary to navigate life’s opportunities. The school’s ethos encourages individuality, creativity, and responsibility, preparing pupils to be honest, courageous, and kind individuals ready for the real world.

Overall, St George’s School Windsor Castle provides a high-quality education that supports the academic and personal development of its pupils. The school’s commitment to fostering a positive learning environment, promoting well-being, and encouraging a sense of community ensures that pupils thrive both academically and personally. The school’s leadership and management effectively uphold the standards required for an independent school, creating a nurturing and enriching environment for all students.