The Peterborough School

The Peterborough School is an independent co-educational day school located in Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, catering for pupils aged 0 to 18. Founded in 1895, the school initially focused on the education of girls and transitioned to a fully coeducational model in 2010. It operates under the Woodard Foundation, which has been associated with the school since 1974. The school is managed by a board of governors, all of whom are Woodard Fellows. The campus spans a shared 13-acre site that includes a nursery, preparatory school, and senior school, with recent developments including a dedicated sixth-form study center and a new library facility.

The school aims to unlock the potential of all its pupils, fostering academic excellence, a passion for learning, confidence, teamwork, creativity, leadership, and spiritual and moral values within a stimulating learning environment. The curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive educational experience, aligned with the tenets of Anglican worship, reflecting the school's commitment to holistic education.

Pupils at The Peterborough School come from diverse professional and business backgrounds, primarily from Peterborough and surrounding areas. The school reports that the ability levels of pupils in the senior school are above average, while those in the sixth form are broadly average compared to national standards. The school has identified 52 pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, with 36 receiving additional support. Additionally, 29 pupils are identified as having English as an additional language, all of whom are fluent and do not require further assistance. The curriculum is tailored to meet the needs of 35 identified most able pupils and 46 others with special talents in areas such as music, drama, sport, and art.

The regulatory compliance inspection conducted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate confirmed that The Peterborough School meets the standards set forth in the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014 and the requirements of the Early Years Foundation Stage statutory framework. The inspection process included a thorough evaluation of the school's educational quality and compliance with statutory requirements.

The quality of education provided at The Peterborough School is commendable, with the preparatory school utilizing its own framework for assessing attainment rather than the national framework. Performance at GCSE from 2016 to 2018 has consistently been above the national average for maintained schools, while A-level results during the same period have aligned with national averages for sixth formers in maintained schools. The curriculum is well-documented, supported by appropriate plans and schemes of work, enabling pupils to make good progress. Effective behavior management and suitable resources further enhance the learning experience.

The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted, fostering responsible and tolerant citizens. The school emphasizes the importance of personal development, ensuring that pupils are well-rounded individuals. Arrangements for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils are robust, with measures in place to prevent bullying and ensure health and safety compliance, including fire safety and first aid provisions.

The school maintains a register to ensure the suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors, adhering to the standards required for those in contact with pupils. The premises are well-maintained, providing suitable facilities for pupils' medical needs, and ensuring adequate toilet and changing facilities. The school also meets the requirements for outdoor space for physical education and play.

Information is effectively communicated to parents, inspectors, and the Department for Education, covering various aspects such as the school's ethos, curriculum, admission arrangements, behavior policies, and academic performance. The complaints procedure is structured in a three-stage process, ensuring that parental concerns are addressed effectively and in a timely manner.

Leadership and management at The Peterborough School demonstrate strong skills and knowledge, fulfilling responsibilities effectively to ensure that standards are consistently met. The governance structure is robust, with governors actively involved in supporting and guiding the leadership team to maintain high standards of welfare and safeguarding.

The quality and standards of the Early Years Foundation Stage provision are outstanding. The curriculum is inspiring and meets statutory requirements while catering for the needs and interests of children, including those with special educational needs. Staff demonstrate a deep understanding of child development, providing high-quality care and support that enables children to make rapid progress. The environment is nurturing, allowing children to feel safe and secure, which is essential for their emotional and social development.

Children in the early years are enthusiastic learners, eager to explore and engage in activities. They demonstrate independence and are encouraged to develop their own ideas through creative play. Staff actively promote language and social skills, engaging with children in meaningful ways that enhance their learning experiences. Regular assessments ensure that each child's progress is monitored effectively, and parents are encouraged to participate in their child's learning journey.

The personal development of children is prioritized, with staff fostering emotional security and resilience. High standards of hygiene and health are maintained, ensuring that children are well cared for. The setting promotes a healthy lifestyle, providing nutritious meals and opportunities for physical activity. Safeguarding measures are rigorously implemented, ensuring that children are kept safe and secure.

Overall, The Peterborough School exemplifies a commitment to high-quality education, personal development, and the well-being of its pupils. The school is well-regarded by parents and the community, with strong relationships built on trust and communication. Continuous improvement is a focus, with leaders actively seeking ways to enhance the educational experience for all pupils. The school is well-positioned to provide a nurturing and stimulating environment that prepares students for future success.