Old Vicarage School

11 Church Lane, Darley Abbey, Derby, DE22 1EW

Pupils

117

Ages

3 - 11

Gender

Co-educational

Type

Primary

Head Teacher

Mrs Kerry Wise

Boarding / Day

Day

Fees

£1,771 to £3,149

ISC Associations

ISA, ISBA

Religion

Non-denominational

Bursaries

Available

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About Old Vicarage School

Located in the heart of Derby, Old Vicarage School offers a nurturing environment for children aged three to eleven. With a non-denominational ethos, the school welcomes pupils from all faiths, fostering an inclusive atmosphere that respects and celebrates diversity. The co-educational setting ensures that both boys and girls receive equal opportunities to thrive academically and socially.

The school prides itself on its commitment to providing a well-rounded education. The curriculum is designed to engage young minds, encouraging curiosity and a love for learning. Core subjects such as English, Mathematics, and Science are taught alongside a variety of other disciplines, including Art, Music, and Physical Education. This broad approach ensures that children develop a wide range of skills and interests, preparing them for the next stage of their educational journey.

One of the standout features of the school is its focus on individualised learning. Teachers are dedicated to understanding the unique needs and abilities of each pupil, tailoring their teaching methods accordingly. This personalised approach is supported by the Head of Learning Support, who works closely with staff to ensure that all children receive the guidance and assistance they need to succeed.

The school also places a strong emphasis on extra-curricular activities, recognising the importance of developing talents outside the classroom. Pupils have the opportunity to participate in a variety of clubs and activities, ranging from sports teams to music ensembles. These activities not only enhance the children’s skills but also help to build confidence and foster teamwork.

Wellbeing is a key priority at the school, with a supportive environment that encourages pupils to express themselves and develop resilience. The staff are committed to creating a safe and nurturing space where children feel valued and respected. This focus on wellbeing is complemented by a range of pastoral care initiatives, ensuring that pupils have access to the support they need throughout their time at the school.

The facilities at the school are designed to enhance the learning experience. Classrooms are well-equipped with modern technology, providing pupils with access to a range of resources that support their education. The outdoor spaces are equally impressive, offering ample opportunities for play and exploration. These facilities contribute to a stimulating environment where children can learn and grow.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to be actively involved in the school community. Regular communication between the school and families ensures that parents are kept informed about their child’s progress and any upcoming events. This partnership between home and school is vital in supporting the children’s development and fostering a sense of community.

In summary, Old Vicarage School in Derby offers a comprehensive education that balances academic excellence with personal development. The school’s commitment to inclusivity, individualised learning, and wellbeing creates a nurturing environment where children can flourish. With a wide range of subjects and extra-curricular activities, pupils are encouraged to explore their interests and develop a lifelong love of learning.

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ISI Review

Old Vicarage School is a co-educational day school located in Derby, founded in 1933. The school operates in a former Victorian vicarage and has been under the current proprietorship of Mr. Matthew Adshead and Mrs. Jenny Adshead since 2007. The school caters to children aged three to thirteen, offering Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) provision in its Nursery and Reception classes. With a total enrollment of 120 pupils, the school has a diverse student body, including a mix of boys and girls, and serves families primarily from professional backgrounds.

The school aims to foster a lifelong love of learning in its pupils, encouraging them to reach their full potential and become responsible citizens. The educational approach emphasizes unlocking each child's potential, ensuring that all students, regardless of their starting points, make excellent progress. The school's curriculum is broad and well-rounded, providing a rich array of academic and extracurricular activities that cater to various interests and abilities.

The recent inspection by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) highlighted the school's success in achieving its educational goals. Pupils demonstrate strong basic skills in literacy and numeracy, and they are able to apply these skills across different subjects. The teaching quality is rated as excellent, with lessons that motivate and inspire students. The inspectors noted that while most marking and feedback practices are effective, there are instances where these could be improved to enhance student learning further.

Pupils' personal development is also a significant strength of the school. They exhibit caring attitudes towards one another, particularly towards younger peers, and show pride in their school community. The school fosters excellent relationships between staff and pupils, creating a supportive environment where students feel secure and valued. The pastoral care provided is robust, ensuring that each child is known as an individual and receives the necessary support.

Governance at Old Vicarage School is characterized by strong oversight from the proprietors, who are actively involved in the school's daily operations. They ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements and maintain high standards of education and care. The leadership team is effective in setting clear expectations and priorities for improvement, and they are supported by an advisory board that provides additional expertise.

The school has made significant strides in enhancing its facilities, including the development of a woodland area that enriches the outdoor learning experience for pupils. The curriculum is designed to be engaging and relevant, with a strong emphasis on core subjects while also incorporating the arts and physical education. Pupils are encouraged to participate in a variety of extracurricular activities, which contribute to their overall development and well-being.

In terms of academic achievement, pupils consistently perform well, with many gaining places at their first-choice senior schools, often with scholarships. The school’s commitment to inclusivity ensures that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, receive tailored support to help them succeed.

The school's approach to health and safety is comprehensive, with effective safeguarding measures in place. Staff are well-trained in first aid, and the school environment is maintained to high standards to ensure the well-being of all pupils. The school promotes healthy eating and physical activity, encouraging students to develop good habits that will benefit them throughout their lives.

Overall, Old Vicarage School is a thriving educational institution that successfully meets the needs of its pupils. The combination of excellent teaching, strong pastoral care, and effective governance creates a nurturing environment where children can flourish academically and personally. The school’s commitment to continuous improvement and its focus on developing well-rounded individuals prepare pupils for the challenges of their future education and beyond.

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