Coopersale Hall School

Coopersale Hall School is a co-educational independent day school located in Epping, Essex. Established in 1989, the school is part of the Oak-Tree Group, which provides governance for several schools. The school is housed in an eighteenth-century building set within seven acres of grounds adjacent to Epping Forest. The current headmistress, Miss Moreen Barnard, has been in position since September 2020. The school has a total enrollment of 267 pupils, ranging in age from 2 to 11 years, with 105 in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and 162 in the junior classes.

The school aims to create a secure and safe community where each child can achieve both academically and personally. It emphasizes the development of a clear sense of right and wrong, encouraging pupils to take responsibility for their actions. The curriculum is designed to be broad and engaging, fostering lively and enquiring minds. The school also focuses on equipping pupils with the skills necessary to face the future with confidence and a positive attitude.

The pupils at Coopersale Hall School predominantly come from local professional and business families. Nationally standardized test data indicates that the pupils' abilities are above average. The school provides support for 25 pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, including those with dyslexia. There are also nine pupils for whom English is an additional language, with only one at the Early Step EAL level. The school identifies academically more able pupils through its assessment processes and adjusts the curriculum to provide additional challenges and differentiation.

The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) conducted a regulatory compliance inspection in February 2022. The inspection focused on the school's adherence to the Independent School Standards and the Early Years Foundation Stage statutory framework. The inspection was carried out partly remotely and partly on-site due to COVID-19 safety measures. The ISI confirmed that the school meets all the standards set out in the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014 and relevant requirements of the Early Years Foundation Stage.

The quality of education provided at Coopersale Hall School is deemed good. The school's assessment framework confirms that teaching enables pupils to make good progress. The curriculum is well-documented and supported by appropriate plans and schemes of work, covering the required breadth of material. Effective behavior management is in place, and suitable resources support teaching. The school also provides relationships education, having consulted parents and published a written policy in line with statutory guidance.

The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted, helping them become responsible, tolerant, and law-abiding citizens. The school fosters principles and values that facilitate personal development, ensuring that pupils are well-rounded individuals.

In terms of welfare, health, and safety, the school has established arrangements to safeguard and promote the welfare of pupils, adhering to current statutory guidance. Good behavior is encouraged, and measures are in place to prevent bullying. The school meets health and safety requirements, including fire safety, and provides first aid. Pupils are properly supervised, and attendance registers are maintained. A strategic approach to risk assessment is evident, and a disability access plan is in place.

The school ensures the suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors through appropriate checks, maintaining a register as required. The premises and accommodation meet the necessary standards, providing suitable toilet and changing facilities, as well as appropriate accommodation for medical and therapy needs. The school maintains its facilities to a standard that meets health and safety requirements, with adequate water provision and suitable outdoor space for physical education and play.

Coopersale Hall School publishes a range of information for parents, inspectors, and the Department for Education. This includes details about the proprietor, the school's ethos, curriculum, admission arrangements, behavior policies, health and safety measures, and the complaints procedure. The safeguarding policy is available on the school's website, ensuring transparency and accessibility of information.

The school has a clear process for handling parental complaints, which includes informal, formal, and hearing stages. Each stage has defined time scales, and the panel at the third stage can make findings and recommendations communicated to the complainant. Records of complaints and actions taken are maintained appropriately.

Leadership and management at Coopersale Hall School demonstrate good skills and knowledge, fulfilling responsibilities effectively to ensure that all standards are consistently met. The proprietor actively promotes the well-being of pupils, contributing to a positive school environment.

Overall, the inspection concluded that Coopersale Hall School meets all the standards required by the Independent School Standards Regulations and the Early Years Foundation Stage statutory framework. No further action is required as a result of this inspection, affirming the school's commitment to providing a high-quality education and a safe, nurturing environment for its pupils. The school continues to strive for excellence in all areas, ensuring that each child is supported in their academic and personal development.