Marlborough House School

Marlborough House School, located on the outskirts of Hawkhurst, Kent, has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1874. Originally established in Hove, the school moved to its current site in 1930. It operates as a non-denominational institution with a broadly Christian ethos, catering for both boys and girls aged 2 to 13. The school offers flexi-boarding for older pupils, allowing them to stay for three nights each week. Managed as a charitable trust, it is overseen by a board of governors. The school comprises separate buildings for the Nursery, pre-prep, and prep school, with boarding accommodations located within the main school building. The current headteacher, Mr. Eddy Newton, has been in position since 2020.

The school aims to recognize and meet the individual needs of each child, fostering a happy community based on mutual respect. It strives to provide a safe, healthy, and caring environment where children can learn and prepare for future educational stages. The pupil body is diverse, with students coming from various professional and business backgrounds, primarily from families residing within a 15-mile radius. The school’s assessments indicate that the pupils' abilities are above average. A total of 61 pupils have special educational needs and/or disabilities, with 35 receiving support from the school. The school also provides additional support for pupils for whom English is an additional language.

The Independent Schools Inspectorate conducted a focused compliance inspection in January 2023, which included an educational quality inspection. The inspection confirmed that the school meets the standards set out in the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014 and the National Minimum Standards for Boarding Schools. The report highlighted 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 appropriate first aid provisions are in place. The school has a strategic approach to risk assessment and maintains a disability access plan.

The quality of education provided at Marlborough House School is commendable. The school’s assessment framework indicates that teaching enables pupils to make good progress. The curriculum is well-documented and supported by appropriate plans and schemes of work, covering a broad range of subjects. The teaching staff effectively manage behavior and utilize suitable resources to support learning. Boarders have access to a suitable program of activities, and the school provides relationships education in the junior school and relationships and sex education in the senior school, adhering to statutory guidance.

The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted. The school encourages pupils to develop good relationships based on mutual trust and respect. Boarders’ views are considered, and their opinions are valued. The school fosters a sense of community and belonging, which is evident in the positive relationships among pupils and staff.

The welfare, health, and safety of pupils are prioritized. The school has established arrangements to safeguard pupils and promote their well-being. Good behavior is encouraged, and measures are in place to prevent bullying. The school meets health and safety requirements, including fire safety, and provides adequate first aid provisions. Pupils are properly supervised, and attendance registers are maintained as required.

The school ensures the suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors through appropriate checks and maintains a register as required. Visitors to boarding accommodations are supervised, and the school’s guardianship arrangements are effectively managed. The premises and accommodation meet the required standards, providing suitable facilities for pupils’ medical and therapy needs. The school maintains a high standard of health and safety throughout its premises.

Marlborough House School provides a range of information to parents, inspectors, and the Department for Education. This includes details about the school’s ethos, curriculum, admission arrangements, behavior policies, and health and safety provisions. The school’s safeguarding policy is readily available on its website, and a statement of boarding principles and practice is published.

Parental complaints are handled effectively through a structured three-stage process, ensuring clear timelines and appropriate record-keeping. The leadership and management of the school demonstrate good skills and knowledge, fulfilling their responsibilities effectively. The proprietor ensures that the standards are consistently met and actively promotes the well-being of pupils.

The educational quality inspection revealed that the quality of pupils’ academic and other achievements is excellent. Pupils employ effective study skills, enabling them to make rapid progress across all subjects. They demonstrate high levels of communication skills and excel in mathematics and English. Pupils develop outstanding attitudes toward learning, showing initiative and independence while collaborating effectively with peers.

The personal development of pupils is also rated as excellent. They exhibit a strong sense of self-awareness, confidence, and resilience. Pupils are socially aware and demonstrate respect for themselves and others, contributing positively to the school community. They are well-prepared for future educational stages, although the school is encouraged to broaden its careers-related activities to enhance pupils’ readiness for life beyond school.

Pupils show high levels of motivation and initiative in their studies, quickly settling into tasks and benefiting from excellent relationships with their teachers. They are encouraged to reflect on their learning and understand the importance of resilience in achieving their goals. The school fosters a culture of collaboration and support, with older pupils mentoring younger ones.

Overall, Marlborough House School provides a nurturing and stimulating environment where pupils thrive academically and personally. The school’s commitment to individual needs, strong leadership, and a supportive community contribute to the excellent outcomes for its pupils. The inspection findings affirm the school’s effectiveness in delivering high-quality education and promoting the well-being of its students.