Windermere School

Windermere School is an independent co-educational day and boarding institution located in Windermere, Cumbria. Founded in 1863, the school has a rich history and moved to its current site in 1924. It became co-educational in 1999 and is part of the Windermere Educational Trust and the Round Square group of schools. The school is overseen by a board of governors and is arranged across three campuses: Browhead, which serves as the senior campus; Elleray, which caters to the Early Years Foundation Stage and junior school; and Hodge Howe, an accredited water sports center. The senior campus houses three boarding houses for male and female pupils aged 8 to 16, as well as a co-educational house for sixth-form students.

The current headmaster, Mr. Tom Hill, joined the school in January 2022, while the chair of governors, Mr. Andrew Chamberlain, was appointed in February 2019. The school aims to foster a well-rounded education guided by the principles of the Round Square ethos, which emphasizes six pillars: internationalism, democracy, environmentalism, adventure, leadership, and service. The school seeks to produce confident and caring pupils with a global understanding of issues, placing adventurous learning at the heart of its curriculum.

Windermere School serves a diverse student body, with 27 nationalities represented among its 321 pupils, approximately 20% of whom come from overseas. Nearly 25% of the pupils are boarders. The school has identified 90 pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, with 36 receiving additional support. Additionally, 75 pupils are classified as having English as an additional language, with 21 receiving extra assistance for their English language skills. The school’s assessment data indicates that the pupils’ abilities are above average compared to national standards.

The Independent Schools Inspectorate conducted a regulatory compliance inspection in January 2023, focusing on the school’s adherence to the Independent School Standards and the National Minimum Standards for Boarding Schools. The inspection concluded that Windermere School meets all applicable standards, with no further action required. The quality of education provided is deemed good, with effective teaching enabling pupils to make significant progress. The curriculum is well-documented and supported by appropriate plans and resources, ensuring that pupils receive a comprehensive education.

In the junior school, the school’s assessment framework confirms that teaching facilitates good progress. Similarly, the senior school’s GCSE and International Baccalaureate results from 2020 to 2022 reflect positive outcomes, indicating that pupils are making good progress. The school provides relationships education in the junior school and relationships and sex education in the senior school, adhering to statutory guidance and consulting parents on its policies.

The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted, fostering responsible and tolerant citizens. Boarders are encouraged to express their views, and their opinions are considered by staff, promoting a supportive environment. The school’s prefect system is managed effectively, contributing to a positive community atmosphere.

Welfare, health, and safety measures are robust, with arrangements in place to safeguard pupils and promote their well-being. The school meets health and safety requirements, including fire safety, and provides first aid provisions. Pupils are properly supervised, and there is a strategic approach to risk assessment. The school has implemented an appropriate induction process for new boarders and ensures that their medical and health care needs are met.

The school conducts thorough checks to ensure the suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors, maintaining a register as required. Visitors to boarding accommodation are appropriately supervised, and guardianship arrangements are effectively managed. The premises provide suitable facilities for pupils, including adequate toilet and changing facilities, and the boarding accommodation meets the needs of all boarders.

Windermere School publishes a range of information for parents, including details about the school’s ethos, curriculum, admission arrangements, and policies on behavior and health and safety. The safeguarding policy is available on the school’s website, and a statement of boarding principles and practice is published. Complaints from parents are handled effectively through a structured three-stage process, ensuring transparency and accountability.

The leadership and management of the school demonstrate good skills and knowledge, fulfilling their responsibilities effectively to ensure that standards are consistently met. The management of boarding is appropriate, with required policies and records maintained and monitored effectively. Overall, the inspection findings indicate that Windermere School provides a high-quality educational experience, meeting the needs of its diverse pupil population while promoting their welfare and development. The school’s commitment to its ethos and the well-being of its pupils is evident in its practices and policies, ensuring a supportive and enriching environment for all students.