Spring Grove School 2003 Ltd, located in Ashford, offers a nurturing environment for children aged two to eleven. This co-educational day school is known for its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to providing a well-rounded education. The school is academically non-selective, with most children entering the nursery at age two, where places are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Due to high demand, many parents register their children at birth. The journey continues into the pre-school class, Giraffes, at age three, with flexible entry options available up to year five, subject to availability.
Parents consistently praise the school for preparing pupils well for their next educational steps, with a significant number progressing to local grammar schools such as Highworth Grammar, Norton Knatchbull School, and Simon Langton. Others choose local independent schools, including Ashford School and St Edmund’s School. A small percentage transition to state schools, with Wye School being a popular choice. In 2023, six scholarships were awarded, highlighting the school’s commitment to academic excellence.
The school’s picturesque setting, with its 17th-century schoolhouse adorned with wisteria and expansive playing fields, creates an idyllic learning environment. The facilities include a zip wire, slack line, spinning cups, and even chickens, providing a delightful backdrop for childhood adventures. The modern classroom blocks and family atmosphere further enhance the school’s appeal.
The nursery is a self-contained hub with a large walled garden, complete with play equipment and a fairy garden. This setting provides an excellent foundation for children as they progress to more structured learning in reception, where they enjoy a climbing wall and specialist teaching in Sport, Art, Music, and French. The transition from pre-prep to prep is seamless, with parents noting that children move on to the next year with ease.
In the classroom, the school offers a dynamic and engaging curriculum. A year four English lesson might involve exploring performance poetry, while a year six science class could focus on experiments with parachutes. French is taught by a native speaker, and pupils eagerly anticipate trips to Normandy. The school does not employ setting, ensuring a cohesive learning experience for all students.
The provision for special educational needs (SEN) is a priority, with 12% of pupils on the SEN register. Support is primarily for dyslexia, autism, ADHD, and physical disabilities, facilitated by an enthusiastic Head of Learning Support and a dedicated SEN teacher. The Maple Room serves as a calm space for SEN support, with strategies in place to ensure pupils do not miss the same lessons repeatedly. The school emphasises identifying needs rather than dwelling on diagnoses, with interventions often implemented before formal diagnosis.
Sport is a significant aspect of school life, with a strong emphasis on teamwork and inclusivity. From pre-prep, children engage in activities like uni-hock and tag rugby, progressing to football, netball, hockey, cricket, and rugby. The school boasts impressive facilities, including a cross-country track, Astro with nets, and a covered swimming pool. A higher ability club caters to elite young sportspeople, and the school maintains excellent relationships with local clubs.
The Forest School, a short minibus drive away, offers a sense of adventure and escapism, with all pupils participating in sessions. Drama is a long-standing tradition, with productions featuring face paint, costumes, and live music. The music department, led by a new director, offers superb facilities and a range of ensembles, encouraging pupils to Give it a Whirl.
Art lessons take place in an intimate studio, with striking displays around the school. Popular after-school clubs include ball skills, swimming, and tennis, with plans to expand offerings for younger children. The teaching staff are a welcoming and dynamic group, with a coaching culture fostering talent identification and nurturing.
The school council and eco team are active, with initiatives like plastic-free weeks and sensory garden planting. The PTA organises events such as the local firework display and summer ball, contributing to the school’s sociable atmosphere.
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