Exeter School

Exeter School has recently expanded its educational offerings by acquiring The New School, a pre-prep institution in Exminster. Historically, this acquisition has been a significant feeder for Exeter School, contributing 40-50% of their intake at Year 3. The school also welcomes children from a diverse range of feeder schools, both state and independent. With 36 places available in Years 3 and 4, split across two classes per year group, the intake rises to three larger classes and an additional 30 places for Years 5-6.

Entry tests in Maths and English are designed to be age-appropriate, with no hidden surprises, ensuring that children who are at or above the average for their age can secure a place. The headteacher is firmly against tutoring for these tests, emphasising that the school seeks to nurture children who can thrive on their own abilities. Parents have praised the kindness with which the tests are administered and the school’s keen eye for academic potential.

New students are warmly welcomed, with initiatives such as open days, a buddy system, and a variety of exciting activities, including a PGL trip in the first weeks of Year 5, to help new starters bond with existing pupils. This welcoming atmosphere is reflected in the experiences of new students, who report feeling at home and happy from the moment they start.

The majority of students (around 90%) move on to the senior school at the end of Year 6, with only a few opting for free grammar schools in Torquay and Colyton. For those who may not benefit from the rigorous academic approach of the senior school, discussions begin well before Year 6 to find a suitable path.

The school is housed in a Georgian villa on the edge of the main senior campus, benefiting greatly from its proximity. The environment is noticeably well-kept, with immaculate classroom displays, bright and engaging corridors filled with pupils’ trip photographs and sports team updates, and cloakrooms overflowing with musical instruments and games kits. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, filled with the sound of happy, chatty children.

Academically, the school maintains a strong pace befitting a selective school, but the teaching is creative, full of ideas, and engaging. For example, in a Year 3 history lesson, children were reading inspired diary entries they had written as Howard Carter discovering Tutankhamun’s tomb. This approach ensures that children leave the junior school with the key learning skills required for the senior school. The curriculum is carefully designed in consultation with senior school departments to ensure it meets their academic expectations.

Specialist subject teachers are involved from the start, with the Head of English being a published author. Project-based learning is integrated across departments, ensuring a cohesive and engaging educational experience. The curriculum overview is clear and shared with pupils and parents at the start of each term.

The school places a strong emphasis on developing good learning habits from the outset, gently introducing homework, independent learning, and personal skills. The curriculum and pastoral care are designed to encourage children to be self-reliant and resilient, all within a supportive and compassionate environment.

All year groups benefit from the sports, music, and drama facilities at the senior school, with Year 6 students taking separate sciences in the senior labs. This whole-school approach helps to smooth the transition to senior school and enriches the educational experience.

The playground is a new and exciting space, with spongey play areas, wooden adventure climbing frames, a mini Astro turf, and various other amenities. Children had a say in its design and are proud of the results.

The school’s ‘hub’ provides everything from informal counselling to extra support sessions for those struggling with certain aspects of the curriculum. All children are assessed for dyslexia on entry, and personalised learning strategies are shared with teaching staff. Parents have expressed overwhelming satisfaction with the level of support provided, particularly for children with complex learning needs.

While the school is known for its academic success, it is the extra-curricular opportunities that truly set it apart. The range of clubs is ever-changing and remarkable, offering activities from podcasting to Minecraft, squash to ballet, and African drumming to cooking. This variety allows children to discover and pursue their interests and passions.

Drama productions are ambitious, ranging from the Gruffalo to a nativity in French and a pared-down version of The Tempest. Public speaking is integrated into various activities, instilling confidence in pupils. The school is also musically strong, with most children learning at least one instrument and a new scheme offering free string lessons to all Year 3 pupils.

Sport is inclusive and aimed at inspiring interest. The school competes strongly at the top level but focuses on introducing children to various sports and fostering a love for their favourites. Facilities include an onsite 25-metre pool, cricket and hockey for both boys and girls, and regular opportunities for everyone to represent the school.

Children feel listened to, respected, and secure in their environment. Pupils are open, chatty, kind, and empathetic, reflecting the school’s successful pastoral care. Parents appreciate the easy communication with teachers and the quick responses they receive, feeling well-informed about their child’s progress.

The headteacher values pupil voice, with changes often inspired by student suggestions. The school is popular with professionals and business people, particularly medics due to its proximity to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital.

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