Trinity School

Trinity School, located in Teignmouth, Devon, is a co-educational institution that caters to students aged two to eighteen. Founded in 1979, the school has been under the ownership of the Alpha Group since 2019. It operates two main sections: the Lodge, which serves nursery and prep students aged four to eleven, and the senior department for students aged eleven to eighteen, including a sixth form. The school accommodates both day pupils and boarders, with a total enrollment of approximately 300 students, including 41 boarders.

The school aims to foster passionate and curious learners who are equipped with the courage and confidence to embrace life's challenges. It emphasizes the development of personal vision, integrity, and a commitment to community service, all rooted in Christian values. The student body is diverse, with pupils coming from various backgrounds, including local and international students, particularly from Europe and the Far East. The school supports 43 pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, ensuring they receive the necessary additional support.

In April 2023, Trinity School underwent a focused compliance and educational quality inspection. The Independent Schools Inspectorate, which is authorized to inspect schools that are members of the Independent Schools Council, conducted the inspection to assess compliance with the Independent School Standards and the National Minimum Standards for Boarding. The inspection evaluated various aspects of the school, including the quality of education, spiritual and moral development, welfare and safety, staff suitability, premises, information provision, complaints handling, and leadership quality.

The inspection found that Trinity School meets all the required standards, with no further action needed. The quality of education provided is good, with evidence showing that pupils make good progress across all year groups. The curriculum is well-structured, and teaching is effective, enabling students to achieve strong academic results. The school has documented its curriculum and assessment framework, ensuring that it covers a broad range of subjects and supports pupils' learning effectively.

In terms of personal development, the school excels in promoting spiritual, moral, social, and cultural growth among its pupils. The principles and values instilled in students encourage them to become responsible and tolerant citizens. The school actively promotes good relationships among pupils and staff, fostering an environment of mutual respect and trust. The boarding experience is well-managed, with boarders' views being valued and considered by staff.

The welfare, health, and safety of pupils are prioritized, with robust safeguarding measures in place. The school has effective policies to prevent bullying and ensure health and safety requirements are met. There is a strategic approach to risk assessment, and appropriate first aid provisions are available. The induction process for new boarders is thorough, and their medical and health care needs are adequately addressed.

The inspection also highlighted the suitability of staff, confirming that appropriate checks are conducted to ensure that all staff, including supply staff and proprietors, are suitable to work with children. The school maintains a register of staff suitability and ensures that visitors to boarding accommodation are supervised.

The premises and accommodation provided by the school are deemed suitable, with adequate facilities for pupils' needs, including toilet and changing facilities, as well as outdoor spaces for physical education and play. The school maintains a high standard of health and safety across its premises.

In terms of information provision, the school publishes a range of information for parents and inspectors, including details about its ethos, curriculum, admission procedures, and policies on behavior and health and safety. The complaints procedure is well-structured, allowing for effective handling of parental concerns through a clear three-stage process.

Leadership and management at Trinity School are effective, with the proprietor ensuring that the leadership team demonstrates good skills and knowledge. The management of boarding is also well-executed, with policies and records being maintained and monitored effectively.

The educational quality inspection revealed that the quality of pupils' academic achievements is good. Pupils, including those with special educational needs, make good progress due to the support and encouragement provided by their teachers. The school promotes strong interpersonal skills through extracurricular activities and sports, although there is a noted need for more opportunities for pupils to consolidate their learning through written work.

Pupils' personal development is rated as excellent, with students demonstrating self-confidence, self-awareness, and a strong sense of character. They engage in collaborative activities, such as fundraising and environmental campaigns, and show respect for diversity and inclusivity. The school fosters a strong moral compass among its pupils, encouraging them to take responsibility for their actions and support one another.

Overall, Trinity School provides a nurturing and supportive environment that promotes both academic success and personal growth. The school effectively prepares its pupils for the next stages of their education and for their future roles in society, ensuring that they are well-equipped to contribute positively to their communities. The inspection findings affirm the school's commitment to maintaining high standards in education and personal development, making it a commendable institution for both day and boarding students.