St Hugh's School

St Hugh’s School, located in the picturesque town of Woodhall Spa, Lincolnshire, offers a unique educational experience that is both inclusive and nurturing. Established in 1925, the school has evolved from its origins as a boys’ preparatory school to a co-educational environment that welcomes children from diverse backgrounds, including farming and Forces families. This blend of traditions creates a vibrant community where pupils thrive academically, socially, and personally.

One of the standout features of St Hugh’s is its non-selective admissions policy, which ensures that all children, regardless of their academic abilities, are given the opportunity to succeed. The school prides itself on its small class sizes, with a maximum of 20 pupils per class and an average of 15, allowing for personalised attention and tailored support. This approach is particularly beneficial for less academically inclined students, who often flourish in this supportive environment. The school sets pupils for Maths and French from Year 5, with Spanish and Latin also on offer, ensuring a well-rounded education.

The school’s commitment to inclusivity is further demonstrated by its robust support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). With 30 pupils identified as having SEND and four with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCP), the school provides full or part-time one-to-one support as needed. The Head of Learning Support and the SENCo team are highly regarded by parents for their dedication and expertise, ensuring that every child’s needs are met. The Beehive, the school’s learning support centre, is centrally located, reflecting its importance within the school community.

Sport plays a significant role at St Hugh’s, with a wide range of activities available to pupils. Despite the need to travel for competitive matches, the school’s teams are successful, with numerous trophies adorning the cabinets. The on-site swimming pool provides ample opportunity for swimming, while mixed touch rugby, non-contact rugby, and yoga are also popular. The school’s emphasis on participation ensures that even non-sporty children find activities they enjoy and excel in.

Music and drama are equally well-supported, with 78 pupils receiving individual music lessons each week. The school boasts a variety of bands and ensembles, including jazz and samba, and the choir performs at local events such as the harvest festival. The school’s first post-Covid production, Shrek, was a resounding success, showcasing the talents of its pupils.

Pastoral care is a cornerstone of the St Hugh’s experience, with a strong sense of community and a family feel permeating the school. The small size of the school allows staff to know each pupil personally, and even minibus drivers are attentive to the wellbeing of the children. The school’s discipline is described as firm but fair, with a strong anti-bullying culture and trained mental health first-aiders on staff. Parents appreciate the school’s proactive approach to addressing issues and the supportive environment it fosters.

Boarding at St Hugh’s is predominantly flexible, with full boarding no longer available. However, as pupils progress through the school, boarding becomes more popular, with most opting to board by their final term. The boarding facilities, located on the top floor of the main building, have been refurbished and are well-regarded by parents. The new housemistress is praised for her proactive and kind approach, and the variety of evening activities, including cinema trips and themed nights, ensures that boarders have a fulfilling experience.

In summary, St Hugh’s School offers a well-rounded education in a supportive and inclusive environment. Its commitment to nurturing each child’s potential, regardless of their academic abilities, is evident in the success of its pupils both academically and personally. The school’s strong sense of community, excellent pastoral care, and diverse extra-curricular opportunities make it a standout choice for families in Lincolnshire.

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