Airthrie School With Hillfield Dyslexia Trust

Dean Close Airthrie School, located in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, is an independent co-educational day school catering for pupils aged 3 to 11. Since its previous inspection, the school has joined the Dean Close Foundation, an educational charity, and appointed a new head. The school is managed by a board of trustees, with oversight from the foundation’s warden. The school aims to promote the flourishing of each individual pupil, fostering qualities of love, courage, and contribution.

The student body primarily consists of children from business and professional families residing within a 15-mile radius. Nationally standardized data indicates that the pupils' abilities are broadly average compared to national benchmarks. The school has identified 14 pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, with 10 receiving additional support. There are no pupils with English as an additional language, and 16 pupils are recognized as more able, with a modified curriculum to cater to their needs.

The Independent Schools Inspectorate conducted a focused compliance inspection combined with an educational quality inspection. The inspection assessed the school’s adherence to the Independent School Standards and the Early Years Foundation Stage statutory framework. The key findings indicated that the school meets all the required standards, with no further action needed as a result of the inspection.

The quality of education provided at Dean Close Airthrie School is characterized by effective teaching that enables pupils to make good progress. The curriculum is well-documented and supported by appropriate plans and schemes of work, covering a breadth of material. The school provides relationships education and has consulted parents to publish a written policy in line with statutory guidance. The standards related to the quality of education are met, ensuring that pupils receive a comprehensive educational experience.

The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted, fostering responsible and tolerant citizens. The school’s principles and values facilitate personal development, and the standard related to this aspect is also met. The welfare, health, and safety of pupils are prioritized, with arrangements in place to safeguard and promote their well-being. The school meets health and safety requirements, including fire safety, and has provisions for first aid. The standards related to welfare, health, and safety are fully met.

The school ensures the suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors through appropriate checks, maintaining a register as required. The standards regarding the suitability of those in contact with pupils are met. The premises and accommodation are suitable, with adequate facilities for pupils’ medical and therapy needs, and the school is maintained to a high standard. The standards related to premises and accommodation are also met.

A range of information is published and made available to parents, including details about the school’s ethos, curriculum, and arrangements for admission, behavior, and health and safety. The standard regarding the provision of information is met. Complaints are handled effectively through a clear three-stage process, ensuring that records are kept appropriately. The standard related to the handling of complaints is also met.

Leadership and management at the school demonstrate good skills and knowledge, fulfilling responsibilities effectively to ensure that all standards are consistently met. The standard related to leadership and management is met.

The educational quality inspection focused on the achievement of pupils and their personal development. The quality of pupils’ academic and other achievements is deemed good. Pupils exhibit excellent communication skills in both written and verbal formats, and they are confident in using information and communication technology. Across the school, pupils approach their learning with enthusiasm and eagerness, demonstrating a positive attitude towards their education.

The personal development of pupils is rated as excellent. They behave with courtesy and consideration for others, forming strong relationships and collaborating effectively. Pupils have a well-developed understanding of cultural diversity and demonstrate knowledge of how to stay safe in various contexts. They show an excellent understanding of factors that contribute to their health and well-being.

The school is advised to enhance the consistency of pupils’ progress by improving the analysis and use of assessment data to inform teaching and learning planning. The quality of pupils’ academic achievements is good, with data indicating that their attainment in English and mathematics meets or exceeds age-related expectations. Pupils with special educational needs also make good progress.

Pupils develop strong communication skills, articulating their ideas clearly and confidently. They engage effectively with technology, using it to support their learning across the curriculum. The school fosters a fun and happy learning environment, encouraging pupils to be fully engaged in their lessons. Collaborative learning is a key aspect of the curriculum, promoting teamwork and problem-solving skills.

Pupils demonstrate good mathematical knowledge, applying their understanding in real-world situations. They develop their study skills effectively, engaging in analysis and synthesis of information from an early age. Participation in local and national events showcases their talents and interests outside the formal curriculum.

The quality of pupils’ personal development is excellent, with a strong emphasis on good behavior and mutual respect. Pupils are socially aware and adept at collaboration, contributing positively to their learning environment. They appreciate and celebrate diversity, understanding the importance of respect for all individuals.

Pupils acquire a keen understanding of health and safety, making informed choices about their well-being. They express high levels of self-confidence and resilience, supported by strong relationships with their teachers. The school encourages mindfulness and reflection, promoting spiritual growth among pupils.

Overall, Dean Close Airthrie School provides a nurturing and effective educational environment, meeting all regulatory standards and fostering the personal and academic development of its pupils. The school’s commitment to promoting individual flourishing and developing essential life skills is evident in its practices and the positive outcomes for its students.