Thorngrove School

Thorngrove School is an independent co-educational day school located in Newbury, Berkshire, catering for pupils aged 2 to 13 years. Founded in 1988, the school has evolved under the leadership of its proprietors and the current headmaster, Mr. Adam King, who took over in 2009. The school is divided into three sections: a nursery for children aged 2 to 4, a lower school for pupils aged 4 to 7, and a prep school for those aged 7 to 13. Since the last inspection, the school has enhanced its facilities, including the addition of new cricket and tennis courts.

The school's mission is to promote well-being, mindfulness, and a sense of self-worth among its pupils. It aims to build resilience and foster sensitivity and empathy towards others. The educational approach emphasizes consistent excellence in teaching, enabling every pupil to develop intellectual curiosity and a lifelong love of learning, ultimately helping them achieve their full potential.

Pupils at Thorngrove School come from diverse professional backgrounds, primarily from white British families residing within a 15-mile radius. The school reports that its pupils generally exhibit above-average abilities compared to national standards. A notable aspect of the school is its commitment to inclusivity, with 52 pupils identified as having special educational needs and/or disabilities, of which 33 receive additional support. The school also accommodates pupils for whom English is an additional language, ensuring that their needs are met through tailored support from classroom teachers.

The regulatory compliance inspection conducted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate confirmed that Thorngrove School meets all the standards set forth in the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014. The inspection assessed various aspects, including the quality of education, spiritual and moral development, welfare and safety, staff suitability, premises, information provision, complaints handling, and leadership quality. The findings indicated that the school effectively safeguards and promotes the welfare of its pupils, maintains good behavior, and prevents bullying. Health and safety requirements are met, and there is a strategic approach to risk assessment.

The quality of education provided at Thorngrove School is commendable. The curriculum is well-documented and supported by appropriate plans and schemes of work, ensuring that pupils make good progress. The teaching is characterized by effective behavior management and the use of suitable resources. The school employs its own framework to assess pupil attainment, which allows for a comprehensive understanding of their progress.

In terms of spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development, the school actively promotes principles and values that help pupils become responsible and tolerant citizens. The welfare, health, and safety of pupils are prioritized, with arrangements in place to safeguard their well-being. The school maintains appropriate checks to ensure the suitability of staff and has adequate facilities for pupils' medical and therapy needs.

The educational quality inspection highlighted the excellent academic and personal achievements of the pupils. They demonstrate a passionate and focused attitude towards learning, with a high level of competence in using information and communication technology. Pupils are adept at organizing and managing their own learning, showcasing strong self-confidence and self-awareness from an early age. The school’s curriculum encourages critical thinking and creativity, allowing pupils to excel in various subjects.

Pupils' personal development is also noteworthy. They exhibit strong moral sensibilities and a genuine appreciation for non-material aspects of life. The school fosters an environment where pupils engage with spiritual and philosophical ideas, encouraging thoughtful discussions and reflections. The emphasis on kindness and empathy is evident, with many pupils recognized for their acts of kindness towards others.

The school encourages pupils to maintain a healthy lifestyle and stay safe, both physically and online. They are educated about the importance of nutrition and mental well-being, with programs in place to support their overall health. Pupils demonstrate maturity in their understanding of various issues, including substance abuse and peer pressure, and are equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions.

Thorngrove School also emphasizes the importance of community involvement and social responsibility. Pupils are aware of the needs of others and actively participate in charitable initiatives, demonstrating a commitment to making a positive impact. The school council plays a vital role in promoting charitable causes that resonate with the pupils, fostering a sense of community and empathy.

Overall, Thorngrove School provides a nurturing and stimulating environment where pupils can thrive academically and personally. The school’s commitment to excellence in education, combined with its focus on the holistic development of each pupil, ensures that they are well-prepared for their future endeavors. The positive feedback from both pupils and parents reflects the school’s success in achieving its mission and values, making it a commendable choice for families seeking a well-rounded education for their children.