Terra Nova School

Terra Nova School is a co-educational day and boarding institution catering for pupils aged between two and thirteen years. Established in 1902, the school has evolved from its origins as a boys' boarding school to its current status, which includes a diverse student body. The school is governed by a charitable trust and has a governing body composed of members from various professional backgrounds. In September 2021, the school appointed a new headmaster and chair of governors, marking a significant transition in its leadership.

The school is located near Holmes Chapel in Cheshire, having moved to its current site in 1939. It offers a structured educational pathway, beginning with a pre-school for under-fives, followed by a junior prep school for children aged five to eight, and culminating in a senior prep school. Terra Nova School provides flexible boarding options for pupils in Year 3 and above, with a single boarding house situated within the main school building. The school aims to recognize and nurture the talents of its pupils, ensuring that individual learning needs are met to help them reach their full potential. It strives to instill character virtues that contribute to success both in school and beyond.

The student population is diverse, with pupils coming from various professional backgrounds, primarily residing within a fifteen-mile radius of the school. Nationally standardized test data indicates that the pupils' abilities are broadly average compared to national benchmarks. The school has identified thirty-two pupils with special educational needs or disabilities, including conditions such as dyslexia and dyspraxia, all of whom receive additional support. Furthermore, two pupils have an education, health, and care plan, while two others are supported in their learning due to English being an additional language. The school also caters to pupils with high potential, providing them with challenges both within and beyond the curriculum.

The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) conducted a focused compliance inspection, which was combined with an educational quality inspection. The ISI is authorized to inspect schools that are members of the Independent Schools Council and assess their compliance with the Independent School Standards. The inspection evaluated the school's adherence to various standards, including safeguarding, health and safety, and the suitability of staff. The findings indicated that Terra Nova School meets all applicable standards, with no further action required as a result of the inspection.

The quality of education provided at Terra Nova School is commendable. The school's assessment framework confirms that teaching enables pupils to make good progress. The curriculum is well-documented and supported by appropriate plans and schemes of work, covering a broad range of subjects. The teaching methods employed promote effective behavior management and are supported by suitable resources. Pupils receive relationships education in the junior school and relationships and sex education in the senior school, in accordance with statutory guidance.

The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted, fostering responsible and tolerant citizens. The school encourages boarders to express their views, and their opinions are taken into account by staff. The welfare, health, and safety of pupils are prioritized, with arrangements in place to safeguard and promote their well-being. The school meets health and safety requirements, including fire safety, and provides adequate first aid provisions. Pupils are properly supervised, and there is a strategic approach to risk assessment.

The school ensures the suitability of staff through appropriate checks and maintains a register as required. Visitors to boarding accommodation are supervised, and the school's guardianship arrangements are effectively managed. 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 its ethos, curriculum, and policies regarding admissions, behavior, and health and safety.

Parental complaints are handled effectively through a structured process, with clear time scales for each stage. The leadership and management of the school demonstrate good skills and knowledge, ensuring that standards are consistently met and promoting the well-being of pupils. The quality of leadership in the school is strong, with appropriate policies and records maintained and monitored effectively.

The educational quality inspection highlighted the excellent academic achievements of pupils. They are articulate and confident communicators, demonstrating high levels of knowledge, skills, and understanding across various subjects. Pupils make excellent progress over time, with many achieving high standards in both academic and extracurricular pursuits. The school has a strong track record of pupils gaining places and scholarships at their first-choice senior schools, many of which have rigorous selection criteria.

Pupils with special educational needs make equally good progress, often exceeding expectations due to the effective support they receive. The curriculum is broad and well-planned, allowing pupils to develop their skills in various areas, including creative and physical pursuits. The school provides a wide-ranging extracurricular program, enabling pupils to excel in sports, music, and drama. Pupils are enthusiastic learners, displaying curiosity and a willingness to take risks in their learning.

While pupils demonstrate excellent communication skills and a good understanding of healthy living, there is room for improvement in developing their study skills. Opportunities for independent research and free writing are limited, and the school is encouraged to provide more chances for pupils to take leadership of their learning. Additionally, while pupils have a good understanding of major world religions, their spiritual understanding and appreciation of non-material aspects of life could be further developed.

Overall, Terra Nova School provides a nurturing and supportive environment that promotes the academic and personal development of its pupils. The school fosters a strong sense of community, encouraging collaboration and respect among students. With a commitment to continuous improvement, the school is well-positioned to enhance its educational offerings and further support the growth of its pupils.