Repton School

Repton, Derby, DE65 6FH

Pupils

631

Ages

13 - 18

Gender

Co-educational

Type

Secondary

Head Teacher

Mr Mark Semmence

Boarding / Day

Day and Full Boarding

Fees

£10,000

ISC Associations

HMC, AGBIS, ISBA

Religion

Christian

Bursaries

Available

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About Repton School

Repton School, located in Derbyshire, is a co-educational independent school that offers both day and full boarding options for students aged 13 to 18. Known for its strong academic performance and diverse extra-curricular offerings, the school has become increasingly competitive, requiring prospective students to plan ahead for admission. A common pass mark of around 50, or its international equivalent, is necessary for entry, with about half of the students joining from Repton’s nearby preparatory school and others from a wide range of preparatory schools both domestically and internationally.

The school boasts impressive academic results, with a significant percentage of students achieving top grades at both GCSE and A-level. In 2023, 61% of students achieved grades 9-7 at I/GCSE, and 39% secured A*/A at A-level. The school has a strong track record of students progressing to Russell Group universities, with popular destinations including Bath, Nottingham, Loughborough, Newcastle, Exeter, Cardiff, and Durham. Although no students gained entry to Oxbridge in 2023, the school saw eight students head to prestigious US universities such as Princeton, Dartmouth, and Cornell.

Repton School is well-regarded for its teaching and learning environment, with a focus on value-added education. Teachers are praised for their willingness to revisit topics that students may not have grasped initially, fostering an open and supportive learning atmosphere. The school’s science facilities are particularly noteworthy, featuring the state-of-the-art Science Priory with labs, seminar rooms, and a lecture theatre equipped with a 3D projector. The observatory on the roof is a unique feature, offering students the opportunity to explore the night skies.

The school offers a wide range of subjects, with students typically taking 10 or 11 GCSEs, including English and Maths. Popular A-level subjects include Economics and English, with the school accommodating even the smallest classes, such as a German A-level class with just one student. The introduction of a BTEC in sport and a strong uptake of the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) reflect the school’s commitment to providing diverse academic pathways.

Repton School places a strong emphasis on digital learning, with each student equipped with a Windows 10 device for accessing lesson notes and pastoral care resources. The school’s director of digital development is a Microsoft Fellow, and the school has been recognised for its outstanding remote learning provision during the Covid pandemic.

The arts and extra-curricular activities are vibrant at Repton, with the drama department offering professional-standard facilities and a range of productions. The textiles department is a hub of creativity, with students participating in a biennial fashion show that is entirely student-run. The art department is affectionately known as the 11th house due to the time students spend there, producing ambitious works from paintings to films.

Music is held in high regard, with facilities including a recording studio, practice rooms, and a performance space with a new Steinway piano. The school offers a variety of musical opportunities, from choirs to house music competitions, although students note the challenge of balancing music and sport commitments.

Sport is a major focus at Repton, with hockey and football being particularly strong. The school provides excellent facilities, including floodlit Astro pitches and numerous football pitches. The strength and conditioning programme is well-regarded, with dedicated gym space and online resources available.

Boarding at Repton is a traditional experience, with no flexi or weekly options. The school has ten houses, each with its own character, and students form strong house loyalties. Meals are formal and taken in-house, fostering a sense of community and allowing staff to monitor student wellbeing.

Repton School has a rich history, founded on the site of a 12th-century priory. The school has expanded internationally, with several schools in the Middle East, Egypt, Malaysia, and China. The school is intertwined with the village, owning many local houses and contributing to the community.

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ISI Review

Repton School, an independent co-educational boarding and day school located in the village of Repton, Derbyshire, has undergone a comprehensive inspection by the Independent Schools Inspectorate. The inspection took place from March 12 to March 14, 2024, and involved a team of eight inspectors who evaluated various aspects of the school's operations, including leadership, education quality, pupil wellbeing, and safeguarding measures.

The school is governed by a board of governors who provide effective oversight and ensure that school leaders possess the necessary skills and knowledge to fulfill their responsibilities. The leadership team actively promotes the wellbeing of pupils, making it a central focus of their planning and decision-making processes. This commitment to pupil welfare is reflected in the robust risk management procedures in place, which are designed to safeguard students effectively.

The inspection found that leaders conduct detailed analyses of pupil progress, identifying areas where additional support is required. This support is provided by knowledgeable and skilled teachers, fostering positive relationships that pupils value. As a result, students are well-prepared for public examinations and achieve commendable results. The school also demonstrates a strong commitment to inclusivity, with effective planning to meet the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and those who speak English as an additional language (EAL).

Repton School offers a varied extracurricular program that allows pupils to explore their talents and interests beyond the classroom. This program encourages students to engage in new activities, contributing to their development as well-rounded individuals. The school's emphasis on sports is particularly noteworthy, with a wide range of options available to all pupils, promoting physical health and personal development. The inclusive nature of the sports program helps students build self-confidence, self-esteem, and resilience.

Boarding at Repton School is characterized by a strong sense of community, with boarders feeling safe and well-cared for. The boarding experience is seen as enriching and integral to personal development and wellbeing. The school maintains high standards of behavior, with effective health and safety procedures in place. The premises are well-maintained and secure, ensuring that the welfare needs of pupils are met.

Leaders have implemented effective programs to support pupils' personal development, covering important topics such as respect, disability, race, and gender identity through the personal, social, and health education (PSHE) curriculum. This approach helps pupils develop moral understanding and self-awareness. While the relationships and sex education (RSE) program is generally well-received, some older pupils have expressed a desire for more engaging content, as they find certain topics repetitive.

Pupils at Repton School actively contribute to their local and wider communities through various service and charity initiatives. This involvement helps them understand life beyond school and the importance of supporting those in need. The school's careers program effectively prepares pupils for their future education and career choices, although there is room for improvement in broadening the content for younger students.

Safeguarding is a high priority at Repton School, with extensive training provided to all staff and governors. The school has established a culture of safeguarding that emphasizes the importance of communication with external agencies and prompt action in response to any concerns. Pupils are educated about safeguarding issues, including online safety, and are encouraged to look out for one another.

The inspection concluded that Repton School meets all relevant standards across various areas, including leadership and management, quality of education, pupil wellbeing, social and economic education, and safeguarding. The school is commended for its effective governance, commitment to pupil welfare, and the quality of education provided.

In terms of recommended next steps, the inspection report suggests that leaders should enhance the RSE curriculum to better engage older pupils and broaden the understanding of future career pathways for younger students. This feedback aims to further strengthen the school's already robust educational framework.

Overall, Repton School is recognized for its dedication to developing well-rounded individuals who are prepared for the challenges of life beyond school. The school's commitment to inclusivity, personal development, and community engagement is evident in its programs and practices, making it a supportive and nurturing environment for all pupils. The positive relationships between staff and students, along with the effective support systems in place, contribute to a thriving school community where pupils can flourish academically, socially, and personally.

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