Stormont School

Stormont School is an independent day school located in Potters Bar, Hertfordshire, catering for female pupils aged four to eleven. Established in 1962 as a charitable trust, the school is governed by a board of governors. It comprises a pre-prep department for younger pupils and a prep department for older students. Since the last inspection, the school has undergone significant redevelopment, including the addition of a first aid room, learning support rooms, and a new library. The leadership team has also seen new appointments, including a head and deputy head, alongside an expanded governing body.

The school aims to foster a nurturing environment where all pupils can thrive academically, socially, and personally. It seeks to cultivate happy, confident, and ambitious individuals who strive for success in various aspects of learning, including academics, sports, and the arts. The pupil demographic primarily consists of children from professional and business backgrounds within a five-mile radius. The school reports that the overall ability of its pupils is broadly average compared to national standards. A small percentage of pupils have been identified as having special educational needs or disabilities, while others are recognized for their exceptional talents in areas such as music, art, and sports.

The inspection conducted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate focused on regulatory compliance and educational quality. The findings indicated that the school meets the standards set forth in the Education Independent School Standards Regulations 2014. The inspection covered various aspects, including the quality of education, spiritual and moral development, welfare and safety, staff suitability, premises, information provision, complaints handling, and leadership quality.

In terms of educational quality, the school provides a well-documented curriculum that supports good progress among pupils. The teaching methods employed are effective, and the school has established a suitable framework for assessing pupil performance. Relationships education is also part of the curriculum, with policies in place that align with statutory guidance.

The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted, fostering responsible and tolerant citizens. The school has established a positive environment where good behavior is encouraged, and bullying is addressed proactively. Health and safety measures are in place, including adequate supervision and first aid provisions. The school maintains proper admission and attendance records and has a strategic approach to risk assessment.

The school ensures the suitability of staff through appropriate checks and maintains a register as required. The premises are well-maintained, providing suitable facilities for pupils, including adequate toilet and changing facilities, as well as outdoor spaces for physical education and play. The school publishes a range of information for parents, including details about its ethos, curriculum, and policies regarding admissions, behavior, and complaints.

Complaints from parents 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 and promoting pupil well-being.

The educational quality inspection highlighted that pupils achieve good academic results and make expected progress across the curriculum. Their learning attitudes are commendable, and they develop strong aesthetic skills, particularly in music and art. However, there is a noted need for improvement in higher-order thinking skills, as opportunities for developing these skills are somewhat limited.

Pupils exhibit excellent behavior and manners, demonstrating strong moral development and a clear understanding of right and wrong. They actively contribute to their community through various initiatives, including fundraising and engagement in local events. Communication skills are well-developed, with pupils articulating their thoughts clearly and confidently.

The school is encouraged to enhance its curriculum by providing more opportunities for pupils to engage in debate and discussion, thereby fostering their ability to present reasoned arguments. Additionally, the school should focus on developing extended study and higher-order thinking skills through a broader range of resources.

Overall, the inspection findings indicate that Stormont School provides a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils, promoting both academic achievement and personal development. The school is committed to continuous improvement and ensuring that all pupils are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary for their future endeavors. The positive feedback from parents and the community reflects the school's dedication to fostering a nurturing and inclusive educational experience.