High March School
23 Ledborough Lane, Beaconsfield, HP9 2PZ
Pupils
297
Ages
3 - 11
Gender
Girls
Type
Primary
Head Teacher
Mrs Kate Gater
Boarding / Day
Day
Fees
£2,275 to £6,235
ISC Associations
IAPS, ISBA
Religion
Christian
Bursaries
Available
About High March School
High March School, located in Beaconsfield, offers a unique educational experience for girls aged three to eleven, with a small number of boys in the nursery. Proudly non-selective, the school provides a stress-free entry process, allowing most girls to join in nursery or reception. Older girls are welcomed for a taster day, where they are observed during lessons, ensuring a smooth transition into the school environment. The headteacher takes a personal approach, providing feedback to all parents, which fosters a strong sense of community and involvement.
The school is situated on a quiet residential street, comprising three converted houses. The junior house accommodates nursery to year 2, while the upper school, for years 3 to 6, is a short walk away. This setup contributes to the school’s homely and welcoming atmosphere, which many parents find appealing. The sense of ownership among the pupils is notable, with children eager to showcase their school and share their experiences.
High March School places a strong emphasis on traditional teaching methods, with a focus on Maths, Reading, and Handwriting. Younger pupils are primarily taught by their class teacher, with specialist instruction in Computing, PE, Swimming, Music, and French from reception. As pupils progress, Art, DT, and Drama are added to the specialist teaching mix, with all subjects taught by specialists from year 4. The school offers Latin from year 5, with Spanish also available. Pupils are engaged and enthusiastic, participating in a range of activities from quiet comprehension to lively discussions.
The school supports a small percentage of pupils with special educational needs (SEN), offering multi-sensory learning opportunities and regular booster groups. The Head of Learning Support runs a weekly friendship group for girls requiring additional support, ensuring all pupils feel included and valued.
While the school may not boast state-of-the-art sports facilities, it makes the most of its resources. The 20-metre indoor swimming pool is a highlight, and netball is a popular sport, with an all-weather court available. Other sports, such as cross-country, triathlon, and athletics, are offered, alongside occasional activities like dance, hockey, and tennis. The school’s focus on music is evident, with every pupil participating in the choir and over 150 peripatetic lessons available in a wide range of instruments. The senior choir’s achievements, including reaching the final of Barnardo’s Youth Choir of the Year in 2020, highlight the school’s commitment to musical excellence.
Drama is an integral part of the curriculum from year 3, with LAMDA available from year 1. The school stages big productions in years 2, 4, and 6, ensuring all pupils have the opportunity to participate. Art and DT displays throughout the school showcase the pupils’ creativity, with projects often incorporating themes of nature and recycling.
The school offers a wide range of extra-curricular clubs, including drawing, drama, quiz club, and yoga. External providers run clubs such as Mandarin, Judo, and Spanish. Wraparound care is available from 8 am to 5.30 pm, with an option to extend until 6 pm for a nominal charge. Educational trips enhance the curriculum, with visits to places like the Cotswold Wildlife Park and the Tate Modern, as well as residential trips for older pupils.
Founded in 1926, the school has a rich history, with the current owners being descendants of the original founders. This family involvement is appreciated by many, although some parents feel it could allow for more autonomy for the headteacher. The school’s ethos of kindness and friendship is evident, with a supportive environment that encourages pupils to thrive.
Families are primarily from Beaconsfield and surrounding areas, with a mix of middle-class professionals and business owners. The school offers academic, drama, and music scholarships, as well as means-tested bursaries for families in need.
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ISI Review
High March School, located in Beaconsfield, Bucks, is an independent day school catering for pupils aged three to eleven. The school operates under the oversight of two directors and is structured into a junior house for younger pupils and an upper school for older students. The school aims to promote educational excellence within a nurturing environment characterized by kindness and friendship. The recent inspection conducted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate from November 14 to November 16, 2023, evaluated the school's adherence to the Independent School Standards and other regulatory requirements.
The inspection findings indicate that the leadership and management of High March School are effective. The directors and advisory board of governors ensure that senior leaders possess the necessary knowledge and skills to promote pupil wellbeing actively. The governance structure is robust, with governors providing effective oversight and challenge to the school's strategic direction. The school has established a strong pastoral structure that fosters a culture of care, contributing to high levels of pupil self-esteem and confidence.
Pupils at High March School demonstrate good progress overall, as evidenced by high-quality outcomes, including those achieved in 11+ examinations. The curriculum is broad and balanced, with effective implementation supported by best practices shared among teachers. However, there are some inconsistencies in the continuity and progression of the curriculum between the junior house and upper school, which the school leadership is actively addressing. The educational experience is further enriched by a wide range of extracurricular activities that promote personal development and social skills.
The school is particularly commendable for its support of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Early identification of needs and the provision of individualized support enable these pupils to make rapid progress. The school culture celebrates diversity, fostering high self-esteem and confidence among all pupils. The early years provision is nurturing and secure, providing a high-quality curriculum that results in strong outcomes across all areas of learning.
Health and safety arrangements at High March School are effective, ensuring that pupils remain safe on-site and during off-site activities. The school promptly addresses any identified risks, demonstrating a commitment to pupil safety. The school's ethos of kindness and friendship is reflected in the positive relationships among pupils and staff, contributing to a strong sense of community. Pupils feel safe and well cared for, benefiting from meaningful opportunities to take on responsibilities that support their personal growth.
The inspection confirmed that the school meets all relevant standards related to leadership, management, and governance. The quality of education, training, and recreation provided to pupils is also in line with the required standards. Pupils' physical and mental health, as well as their emotional wellbeing, are prioritized through effective policies and practices. The school promotes a culture of respect and mutual trust, which is evident in the positive relationships among pupils and staff.
In terms of social and economic education, High March School provides numerous opportunities for pupils to engage with their community and understand their role within society. The curriculum includes age-appropriate introductions to various institutions and their functions in British society. Pupils learn about democracy through participation in school councils and eco-committees, where they can voice their opinions and contribute to decision-making processes. The school actively promotes fundamental British values, fostering respect and tolerance for diverse cultures and beliefs.
Pupils are well-prepared for the next stages of their education, including senior school entry examinations. However, there is a noted reluctance among some pupils to take risks in their learning, which could enhance their personal growth. The school emphasizes service to others, with pupils participating in community support initiatives and environmental projects through the eco-committee.
The safeguarding arrangements at High March School are robust, with effective oversight from governors and strong leadership in safeguarding practices. Staff are well-trained in identifying and addressing safeguarding concerns, ensuring that pupils' wellbeing is prioritized. The school maintains a safe physical environment, with appropriate supervision and health facilities available for pupils.
Overall, High March School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education in a supportive and nurturing environment. The inspection findings highlight the school's strengths in leadership, curriculum delivery, pupil wellbeing, and community engagement. The school is well-positioned to continue its mission of promoting educational excellence while fostering a culture of kindness and friendship among its pupils. The leadership team is encouraged to strengthen the continuity and progression of the curriculum further, ensuring that all pupils maximize their potential as they transition through the school.
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Last Updated: 8 October 2024