Brighton College Prep School

Brighton College Nursery, Pre-Prep, and Prep School is an independent day school catering for children aged three to thirteen. The school operates across two sites, with the nursery and pre-prep located in a purpose-built facility near the prep school, which is adjacent to the main Brighton College campus. As a registered charity and a company limited by guarantee, the school is governed by a board of trustees who oversee its administration. In recent years, the nursery and pre-prep have merged with the prep school, aligning policies and practices and integrating senior management teams.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the school remained open only for children of key workers from March to August 2020, providing remote learning for all pupils during this period. The inspection process adapted to these circumstances, with evidence gathered both remotely and on-site to minimize contact. The inspection did not evaluate the effectiveness of provisions made during the pandemic but focused on compliance with regulatory standards.

The school aims to educate its pupils to be well-rounded, tolerant, and curious individuals who actively engage in their communities. The pupils’ abilities are generally above average, with many coming from professional backgrounds. The school has identified a number of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, providing additional support where necessary. English is an additional language for a significant number of pupils, and the curriculum is tailored to meet the needs of the most able students.

The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) conducted a focused compliance inspection, which assessed the school’s adherence to the Independent School Standards and the Early Years Foundation Stage statutory framework. The inspection confirmed that the school meets all relevant standards, including those related to safeguarding, health and safety, and the suitability of staff. The school has effective measures in place to promote good behavior, prevent bullying, and ensure the welfare of its pupils.

The quality of education provided is strong, with a well-documented curriculum that supports good progress for pupils. Teaching is effective, and behavior management is appropriately implemented. The school provides relationships education and has consulted with parents regarding its policies. The standards related to the quality of education are met, and the school promotes the spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of its pupils, fostering responsible citizenship.

The welfare, health, and safety of pupils are prioritized, with appropriate arrangements in place to safeguard their well-being. The school maintains accurate admission and attendance records and has a strategic approach to risk assessment. The premises are well-maintained, providing suitable facilities for pupils’ medical and therapy needs, and outdoor spaces for physical education.

The school provides a range of information to parents, including details about its ethos, curriculum, and policies on admissions, behavior, and health and safety. Complaints are handled effectively through a structured process, ensuring transparency and accountability. The leadership and management of the school demonstrate good skills and knowledge, fulfilling their responsibilities effectively.

The educational quality inspection highlighted the excellent academic achievements of pupils, who make outstanding progress due to effective assessment frameworks and tailored teaching. Pupils exhibit advanced communication skills and demonstrate a strong willingness to collaborate. Their study skills are well-developed, and they engage in higher-order thinking across the curriculum. The school does not participate in National Curriculum tests, but evidence indicates that pupils’ attainment is well above average.

Pupils’ personal development is also excellent, with high levels of self-confidence, self-awareness, and resilience. They demonstrate strong moral awareness and respect for one another, embodying the school’s ethos. The school encourages pupils to take initiative and make decisions, fostering a sense of responsibility and community involvement. Pupils actively participate in charitable initiatives and engage in discussions about important social issues.

The school promotes a culture of respect and kindness, with pupils valuing the contributions of their peers and staff. They are encouraged to express their opinions and engage in meaningful conversations about their learning experiences. The leadership fosters an environment where mistakes are viewed as learning opportunities, supporting pupils in their personal growth.

Overall, Brighton College Nursery, Pre-Prep, and Prep School provides a nurturing and challenging educational environment that supports the academic and personal development of its pupils. The school successfully meets regulatory standards and promotes a holistic approach to education, preparing pupils to be confident, capable, and compassionate individuals.