Highfield Priory School

Highfield Priory School, located in Fulwood, Preston, Lancashire, is an independent co-educational day school that has been operational since 1938. The school moved to its current site in 1979 and is governed by a charitable trust overseen by a board of governors. The school caters to children aged 2 to 11 and has a total enrollment of 195 pupils, including 54 children in the early years, which comprises Nursery, Pre-School, and Reception classes. The school has made significant changes since the previous inspection, including increasing the starting age for Nursery from six months to two years.

The recent inspection conducted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate from October 17 to 19, 2023, highlighted the school's academic success and the high attainment levels of its pupils. The school is particularly noted for its consistent success in preparing pupils for 11+ placements in local grammar schools. The pupils are described as polite, engaged, and benefiting from a well-planned curriculum delivered by a dedicated team of staff. The leadership team, along with a proactive governing body, is committed to promoting the well-being of pupils through careful evaluation, planning, and implementation of the curriculum.

The curriculum at Highfield Priory School is designed to be challenging and age-appropriate, aligning with the school's aims to stimulate intellectual curiosity and promote excellence in academic, creative, and sporting endeavors. The school emphasizes the importance of well-being alongside academic focus, ensuring that pupils are prepared for the rigors of their next educational stages. However, the inspection noted that the purpose and importance of the Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) provision were not clearly communicated to pupils.

The early years provision is particularly strong, reflecting the experience and organization of the school's leaders. The staff's detailed knowledge and expertise create a nurturing and creative environment where children's individuality is celebrated, and their inquisitive minds are stimulated. The school promotes equal opportunities and celebrates diversity, ensuring that all pupils feel valued and included. The curriculum is broad and balanced, with teachers demonstrating strong subject knowledge and effective classroom management skills. Pupils are engaged in their lessons and often take the initiative in their learning.

The governing body plays a crucial role in maintaining oversight of the school's operations. They conduct detailed audits of safeguarding and health and safety provisions, ensuring that both pupils and staff feel safe and valued. The governors monitor staff training and engage in extensive strategic planning, which contributes to the overall effectiveness of the school. Although there were some historical errors in attendance registers, these were rectified at the beginning of the academic year.

Pupils at Highfield Priory School demonstrate a strong understanding of right and wrong and take responsibility for their behavior. They embrace the diversity of their school community and show a clear understanding of fundamental British values. The school effectively manages risk assessments and collaborates with external agencies to protect pupils from harm. The facilities are well-maintained, and all staff and volunteers are appropriately checked for their suitability to work with children.

The quality of education, training, and recreation at Highfield Priory School is commendable. The school provides a broad and balanced curriculum that supports the development of linguistic, literacy, and numeracy skills. In science, an investigational approach is promoted, and in the early years, children learn through both teacher-led and child-led activities. The school encourages pupils to engage in various extracurricular activities, enhancing their confidence and leadership skills.

Pupils benefit from a total of forty activity sessions planned throughout the school week, which include a range of engaging activities that foster personal growth and development. The school places a strong emphasis on physical education and games, ensuring that all pupils participate in a diverse and inclusive sports program. The well-being of pupils is prioritized, with a comprehensive PSHE program that includes RSE, although staff confidence in delivering this area of the curriculum needs improvement.

The school promotes pupils' social and economic education through a curriculum that broadens their understanding of the world. Pupils are encouraged to articulate their understanding of diversity and equality, preparing them for their lives beyond school. They participate in democratic processes, such as co-writing their classroom charter and voting for the school's adopted charity, which fosters a sense of responsibility and community engagement.

Highfield Priory School's arrangements for safeguarding and promoting pupils' well-being are robust. Leaders are aware of potential risks and ensure that policies and procedures are in place to minimize them. The safeguarding policy reflects the latest guidance and is overseen by the governing body. Staff receive annual safeguarding training and are clear about their responsibilities in dealing with concerns and disclosures. The school maintains a comprehensive record of checks for all staff and volunteers, ensuring a safe environment for pupils.

Overall, Highfield Priory School meets all relevant standards set by the Independent Schools Inspectorate. The school is committed to providing a high-quality education that promotes academic success, personal development, and well-being. The leadership team and governing body work collaboratively to ensure that pupils are well-prepared for their future educational journeys while fostering a supportive and inclusive school community. The positive feedback from the inspection reflects the school's dedication to excellence in all aspects of its provision.