Casterton Sedbergh Preparatory School

Casterton, Sedbergh Preparatory School is a co-educational institution located in the picturesque village of Casterton in the Lune Valley. Established in September 2013 following the merger of Sedbergh School and Casterton School, it operates within the original Casterton building and is overseen by a governing body. The school offers both day and boarding options, with three boarding houses catering for its diverse student population. The school serves pupils aged 4 to 13, with a total enrollment of 181 students, including 123 day pupils and 58 boarders.

The school aims to cultivate happy, confident children who embody a ‘can-do’ attitude, fostering independence while promoting teamwork. Through sensitive teaching, the school encourages a spirit of adventure both inside and outside the classroom. The core values, encapsulated in the Ways of the Wolf, emphasize ambition, collaboration, courage, creativity, kindness, and responsibility. The school prides itself on creating a strong sense of community and heritage, ensuring that pupils are well-prepared for their future educational journeys.

The student body is predominantly composed of children from professional, entrepreneurial, and farming backgrounds, primarily residing within a 45 to 90-minute radius of the school. The school reports that its pupils demonstrate above-average academic abilities, with 20 students identified as having special educational needs, including dyslexia and dyspraxia, all of whom receive tailored support. Additionally, four pupils are classified as having English as an additional language, with their needs being met through classroom support and specialized assistance.

The Independent Schools Inspectorate conducted a focused compliance inspection, which included an educational quality assessment. The inspection took into account the challenges faced by schools during the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated restrictions. The findings indicated that the school meets all the standards set forth in the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014, as well as the National Minimum Standards for Boarding Schools. No further action is required following this inspection.

The quality of education provided at Casterton, Sedbergh Preparatory School is commendable. The school’s assessment framework confirms that teaching enables pupils to make good progress, supported by a well-documented curriculum that covers the required breadth of material. The teaching methods employed are effective, and the school has established a suitable framework for assessing pupil performance. Relationships education is provided at appropriate levels, and the school has consulted parents regarding its policies.

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, ensuring that their opinions are considered by staff. The standards related to this aspect of education are met, reflecting the school’s commitment to holistic development.

In terms of welfare, health, and safety, the school has established robust arrangements to safeguard pupils, promote good behavior, and prevent bullying. Health and safety requirements are met, and appropriate provisions for first aid are in place. The school maintains proper supervision of pupils and keeps accurate attendance records. An effective induction process for new boarders is implemented, ensuring their well-being and integration into the school community.

The suitability of staff is rigorously checked, with appropriate measures in place to ensure that all staff, supply staff, and proprietors are suitable to work with children. The school maintains a register of these checks, and visitors to boarding accommodation are supervised appropriately. The premises and accommodation provided for pupils are adequate, with suitable facilities for medical needs and outdoor activities.

The school excels in providing information to parents, inspectors, and the Department for Education. This includes details about the school’s ethos, curriculum, admission arrangements, and policies regarding behavior and health. The complaints procedure is well-structured, allowing for effective handling of parental concerns through a clear three-stage process.

Leadership and management at Casterton, Sedbergh Preparatory School demonstrate good skills and knowledge, ensuring that the standards are consistently met. The leadership actively promotes the well-being of pupils, and the management of boarding is effective, with policies and records maintained appropriately.

The educational quality inspection highlighted the excellent academic achievements of pupils. They exhibit highly effective communication skills and possess positive attitudes towards learning. The school offers a rich array of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, drama, and outdoor opportunities, contributing to the overall development of pupils. The success of pupils in local and national competitions is a testament to their dedication and the school’s supportive environment.

Pupils are well-prepared for the next stages of their education, demonstrating self-confidence, self-awareness, and resilience. Older pupils serve as excellent role models, taking on responsibilities within the school community. The moral code fostered throughout the school encourages pupils to make mature judgments about their behavior, contributing to a positive school culture.

The school promotes physical and mental well-being, with pupils demonstrating a strong understanding of healthy lifestyles. They engage in discussions about mental health and have access to robust support systems. The school’s commitment to fostering a sense of community is evident in the various initiatives undertaken by pupils, including fundraising activities and support for local causes.

Pupils exhibit excellent behavior across all age groups, guided by a mature sense of right and wrong. The school’s values of ambition, collaboration, courage, creativity, kindness, and responsibility are deeply ingrained in the school culture. Relationships between staff and pupils are exceptional, creating an environment where pupils feel comfortable seeking support.

Overall, Casterton, Sedbergh Preparatory School provides a nurturing and stimulating environment for its pupils. The school’s commitment to academic excellence, personal development, and community engagement is evident in the positive experiences of its students. The inspection findings affirm that the school meets all regulatory standards and continues to thrive as a center of learning and growth for its pupils.