Rendcomb College

Rendcomb College is an independent boarding and day school located approximately six miles from Cirencester, established in 1920. Initially founded to provide a holistic boarding education for male pupils, the school became fully co-educational in 1997, with the addition of a junior school in 2000 and a nursery in 2005. The college is governed by a board of trustees responsible for its assets, while a board of governors oversees its strategic direction and daily management. The current chair of governors was appointed in 2021. The inspection conducted in May 2022 took into account the challenges faced by schools during the COVID-19 pandemic and the restrictions imposed by government guidance.

The school aims to cultivate thoughtful, adventurous, and academically ambitious young people who are lifelong learners, equipping them with the character and skills necessary to thrive in an ever-changing world. The student body comprises a diverse mix of day pupils, primarily from professional and business backgrounds, and boarding pupils, predominantly from overseas, particularly the Far East, Germany, and Spain. The school’s assessment data indicates that the overall ability of pupils is broadly average compared to national standards. A significant number of pupils, specifically 119, have been identified as having special educational needs and/or disabilities, mainly mild dyslexia, with most receiving additional support. Additionally, 42 pupils in the senior school are identified as having English as an additional language, with two receiving extra assistance. The school has also recognized 53 pupils as the most able, and the curriculum is tailored to meet their needs.

The focused compliance inspection revealed that Rendcomb College meets the standards set forth in the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014, the National Minimum Standards for Boarding Schools 2015, and relevant requirements of the Early Years Foundation Stage statutory framework. No further action is required following this inspection. The quality of education provided is assessed as good, with teaching enabling pupils to make good progress across various subjects. The curriculum is well-documented and supported by appropriate plans and schemes of work, ensuring a breadth of material is covered. Pupils receive relationships education in the junior school and relationships and sex education in the senior school, with the school 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, fostering responsible and tolerant citizens. The school encourages boarders to express their views, and their opinions are considered by staff. The welfare, health, and safety of pupils are prioritized, with arrangements in place to safeguard and promote their well-being, including measures to prevent bullying and ensure health and safety requirements are met. The school maintains appropriate supervision of pupils and has a strategic approach to risk assessment, alongside a disability access plan.

The suitability of staff is ensured through appropriate checks, and a register is maintained as required. Visitors to boarding accommodation are supervised, and the school’s guardianship arrangements are effectively managed. The premises and accommodation provided are adequate for the needs of all pupils, with suitable facilities for medical and therapy needs, and the overall environment is maintained to a high standard.

Information is effectively communicated to parents, inspectors, and the Department for Education, covering various aspects of the school’s operations, including its ethos, curriculum, and arrangements for admission and behavior. The school has a clear complaints procedure that is effectively implemented, ensuring that parental complaints are handled through a structured process.

Leadership and management at Rendcomb College demonstrate good skills and knowledge, fulfilling responsibilities effectively to ensure that standards are consistently met. The leadership actively promotes the well-being of pupils, and appropriate policies and records are maintained and monitored.

The educational quality inspection highlighted that the quality of pupils’ academic and other achievements is excellent. Pupils excel in creative subjects such as music, art, and drama, and their knowledge and skills in the sixth form are commendable. Throughout the school, pupils exhibit excellent attitudes towards learning and are eager to succeed. They engage in high-quality independent work while supporting their peers. However, in some lessons below the sixth form, there is a noted lack of academic challenge, which affects the progress of some pupils.

Pupils’ personal development is also rated as excellent. They display self-confidence and high self-esteem, embracing the nurturing ethos of the school. Their social skills are well-developed, enabling them to work collaboratively to achieve common goals. Pupils demonstrate a strong understanding of equality and diversity, celebrating the achievements of others. They are well-informed about how to stay safe, fit, and healthy.

The school is encouraged to ensure that all pupils make optimal progress by incorporating greater challenge and ambition in lessons. Additionally, it is recommended that pupils receive clearer guidance on how to improve their work and academic reports.

Overall, Rendcomb College provides a supportive and enriching environment that fosters both academic and personal growth. The school’s commitment to developing well-rounded individuals is evident in its holistic approach to education, ensuring that pupils are well-prepared for their future endeavors. The strong sense of community, respect, and responsibility among pupils contributes to a positive learning atmosphere, making Rendcomb College a nurturing place for young learners to thrive.