Pangbourne College

Pangbourne College is a co-educational independent day and boarding school located in Berkshire, catering for students aged 11 to 18. Established in 1917 as a nautical college by the Devitt and Moore Shipping Company, the college has evolved while maintaining its original campus. It operates as a registered charity governed by a board of governors. The college is divided into two sections: a junior department for pupils aged 11 to 13 and a senior department for those aged 13 to 18. Since the last inspection, significant refurbishments have been made to teaching facilities, including the addition of a new swimming pool and the cessation of formal Saturday morning lessons.

The college aims to foster academic potential and develop essential life skills such as teamwork, leadership, self-discipline, and service through a Christian ethos. Its seven Flag Values—kindness, selflessness, moral courage, initiative, industry, resilience, and integrity—serve as a foundation for pupils' development into responsible adults. The student body is diverse, with pupils coming from various professional backgrounds, primarily from Berkshire, London, and surrounding counties, along with a few international students. Nationally standardized test data indicates that the overall ability of pupils is above average, with the sixth form's ability being broadly average. The college supports 190 pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, providing additional help to those who require it.

The regulatory compliance inspection conducted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate confirmed that Pangbourne College meets the standards set by the Department for Education. The inspection assessed various aspects, including the quality of education, spiritual and moral development, welfare and safety, staff suitability, premises, information provision, complaints handling, and leadership quality. The college's performance in GCSE examinations from 2016 to 2018 was above the national average for maintained schools, while A-level results were in line with national averages for sixth formers.

The curriculum is well-documented and supported by effective teaching strategies that enable pupils to make good progress. The college promotes good behavior and has measures in place to prevent bullying, ensuring a safe environment for all students. The welfare of pupils is prioritized, with appropriate health and safety measures, first aid provisions, and a strategic approach to risk assessment. The college has a disability access plan and maintains accurate admission and attendance records.

The college's leadership demonstrates good skills and knowledge, ensuring that standards are consistently met and promoting the well-being of pupils. The management of boarding is effective, with policies and records maintained and monitored appropriately. The college provides a range of information to parents and stakeholders, including details about the curriculum, admissions, behavior policies, and academic performance.

The educational quality inspection highlighted the excellent academic and personal achievements of pupils. They exhibit strong communication skills, articulate complex concepts, and demonstrate proficiency in information and communication technology. Pupils engage in a variety of academic and extracurricular activities, achieving high standards in sports, music, and outdoor pursuits. Their attitudes towards learning are exemplary, responding positively to challenges and demonstrating resilience and perseverance.

Pupils are encouraged to work collaboratively, taking on roles of responsibility and valuing opportunities for leadership. Their moral understanding is well-developed, and they appreciate the impact of their decisions on others. The college fosters a strong sense of community, where pupils are self-aware and confident, supported by a culture of praise and encouragement. The life skills program helps pupils reflect on their experiences and prepares them for future challenges.

Pupils develop strong leadership and service skills through various initiatives, including the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme and the Combined Cadet Force. They learn to motivate others and lead by example, gaining valuable organizational skills. The college emphasizes the importance of teamwork and social skills, with parents expressing satisfaction with their children's development in these areas.

Overall, Pangbourne College provides a nurturing environment that promotes academic excellence and personal growth. The college's commitment to its values and the holistic development of its pupils ensures that they are well-prepared for their future endeavors. The strong academic and pastoral support systems in place contribute to a positive learning experience, fostering resilience, self-discipline, and a sense of responsibility among students. The college's achievements in various fields, including academics, sports, and the arts, reflect its dedication to providing a well-rounded education that prepares pupils for success in their adult lives.