Copthill Independent Day School & Nursery
Barnack Road, Uffington, Stamford, PE9 3AD
Pupils
287
Ages
2 - 11
Gender
Co-educational
Type
Primary
Head Teacher
Mrs Helen Schofield
Boarding / Day
Day
Fees
£812 to £3,895
ISC Associations
ISA
Religion
Non-denominational
Bursaries
Check school website
About Copthill Independent Day School & Nursery
Copthill Independent Day School & Nursery, located in Stamford, offers a unique approach to education that prioritises outdoor learning and holistic development. The school is not academically selective, but it ensures that it can meet the needs of each child while considering the wellbeing of all pupils. This inclusive ethos is evident from the nursery level, where two-thirds of the children progress to the main school, with the remaining third joining from other settings. The school is currently oversubscribed in reception, giving nursery pupils priority and allowing the school to gauge parental commitment to its outdoor education philosophy.
The school’s outdoor learning approach is a cornerstone of its educational model. On a visit during a wet December morning, it was clear that both parents and children embrace this ethos wholeheartedly. A mother was seen preparing herself and her young children in waterproofs to spend the morning outside, building campfires and enjoying the woodland. This dedication to outdoor activities is a testament to the school’s commitment to providing a unique and engaging learning environment.
As children progress through the school, more join from year 4 onwards, particularly as exams approach. The school maintains small class sizes, with up to 20 pupils per class and two classes per year group. There are no plans to expand these numbers, as the school values its small, close-knit community.
Historically, most pupils transitioned to local independent schools such as Stamford, Oakham, and Oundle, with many securing county scholarships. However, this trend has shifted, with around 50% of leavers now moving into the state system, including comprehensives. The school actively encourages parents to consider options beyond the 11+ if it is not the right fit for their child, and parents trust the school’s guidance.
The curriculum at Copthill is robust and innovative, integrating outdoor learning with traditional subjects. Spanish classes might involve making paella on a campfire, while art lessons could include creating dream catchers outdoors. Subjects like Biology and Geography are taught through hands-on experiences, such as exploring Roman forts, trenches, and battlefields, or engaging in activities like damming rivers and kayaking. Even older pupils in year 6 spend an afternoon each week outside, and every break is an opportunity to explore the grounds.
The school sets Maths from year 2 and English from year 5, with practice exam papers starting in year 4. Languages are a strong focus, with Spanish and French introduced early and Latin in later years. Pupils are taught in forms until year 5, when subject teachers take over. Parents are consistently pleased with the academic achievements, noting that the school’s approach fosters independent learning and happy, engaged children.
Learning support is a key strength, with a dedicated Head of Learning Support and a strong department experienced in addressing various needs. One-to-one support is available for children with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), and there are 18 children on the Special Educational Needs (SEN) register. Parents appreciate the free extra lessons provided for children with specific needs, such as dyslexia.
The emphasis on childhood and learning through play is a recurring theme among staff and parents. The school balances this with a keen awareness of social media pitfalls, ensuring pupils are well-prepared for the digital world. Pastoral care is exemplary, with staff knowing the children well and fostering mutual respect and affection. Discipline is rarely an issue, as the school’s inclusive and fair approach encourages children to express themselves confidently.
Extra-curricular activities are abundant, with music and sports playing significant roles. Year 2 pupils learn strings, year 3 woodwind, and there are various clubs, bands, and choirs. Sports are encouraged for all, with facilities including a shooting range, archery, a 5k cross-country course, and numerous hockey and rugby pitches.
Copthill may not suit children or parents who dislike mud, but for those who embrace the outdoors, it offers a rich and fulfilling educational experience. The school’s reputation for its different approach to learning, extensive outdoor space, and culture is well-deserved. As one parent aptly put it, “You can’t go wrong with that place.”
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ISI Review
Copthill School, located in Stamford, Lincolnshire, has a rich history dating back to its establishment as a nursery school in 1969. Over the years, it has evolved into a co-educational nursery and preparatory school catering for day pupils aged 2 to 11. The school is divided into two main sections: the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) for children aged 2 to 5, and the main school for pupils in Years 1 to 6. Owned by Copthill School Ltd, the institution is managed by a board of directors who are family members of the founders, supported by a small advisory panel. Since the last inspection, the school has made significant improvements to its outdoor facilities, dining room, and library, enhancing the overall learning environment.
The inspection conducted in March 2022 took into account the challenges faced by schools during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the various restrictions imposed by government guidance. The school aims to create a welcoming, stimulating, and happy environment that encourages every pupil to succeed. It strives to provide a broad curriculum designed to develop lifelong knowledge, skills, and attitudes, fostering responsible citizenship, independent exploration, creative thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and reflective learning. A key aspect of the school's approach is the emphasis on utilizing the outdoor environment to engage and inspire pupils.
The student body at Copthill School comes from diverse business and professional backgrounds within a 20-mile radius. Data indicates that the ability levels of pupils in both the EYFS and preparatory school are above the national average across all areas. The school has identified 24 pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), who receive additional support tailored to their specific needs, including conditions such as autistic spectrum disorder, dyslexia, and dyspraxia. Notably, there are no pupils for whom English is an additional language. The school also focuses on nurturing more able pupils and those with particular talents through extracurricular programs, enrichment activities, and extensions within the regular curriculum.
The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) conducted a compliance-only inspection, assessing the school's adherence to the Independent School Standards and relevant requirements of the Early Years Foundation Stage statutory framework. The inspection confirmed that Copthill School meets all the standards outlined in the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014, with no further action required as a result of the inspection.
The quality of education provided at Copthill School is commendable, with the school's assessment framework indicating that teaching enables pupils to make good progress. The curriculum is well-documented and supported by appropriate plans and schemes of work, ensuring a comprehensive breadth of material. Effective behavior management is evident, and suitable resources are utilized to support teaching. The school also provides relationships education, having consulted parents and published a written policy in line with statutory guidance.
In terms of spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development, the school actively promotes principles and values that facilitate the personal growth of pupils as responsible, tolerant, and law-abiding citizens. The standards related to this aspect of education are met, reflecting the school's commitment to fostering a well-rounded development for its pupils.
The welfare, health, and safety of pupils are prioritized at Copthill School. Arrangements are in place to safeguard and promote the welfare of pupils, adhering to current statutory guidance. The school promotes good behavior, prevents bullying, and meets health and safety requirements, including fire safety. Adequate provision for first aid is ensured, and pupils are properly supervised. The school maintains admission and attendance registers as required and adopts a strategic approach to risk assessment, complemented by a disability access plan.
The suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors is rigorously checked, with a register maintained as required. This ensures that all individuals in contact with pupils are suitable for their roles, meeting the standards set forth in the regulations.
The premises and accommodation at Copthill School are well-maintained, providing suitable toilet and changing facilities, as well as appropriate accommodation for pupils' medical and therapy needs. The school ensures that the premises meet health and safety standards, with adequate acoustics, lighting, and water provision. Outdoor spaces are available for physical education and play, contributing to a holistic educational experience.
The school effectively provides a range of information to parents, inspectors, and the Department for Education. This includes details about the proprietor, the school's ethos, curriculum, and arrangements for admission, behavior, exclusions, bullying, health and safety, first aid, and the complaints procedure. The safeguarding policy is readily accessible on the school's website, ensuring transparency and communication with stakeholders.
Complaints from parents are handled through a structured three-stage process, which includes informal, formal, and panel hearing stages. Each stage has clear timelines, and the panel can make findings and recommendations communicated to the complainant. Records of complaints and actions taken are maintained appropriately, ensuring accountability and responsiveness to parental concerns.
Leadership and management at Copthill School demonstrate good skills and knowledge, fulfilling their responsibilities effectively. The proprietor ensures that the leadership team consistently meets the standards, actively promoting the well-being of pupils. The quality of leadership and management is recognized as meeting the required standards, contributing to the overall success of the school.
In summary, Copthill School has established itself as a nurturing and effective educational institution, meeting all regulatory compliance standards. The school provides a supportive environment that fosters academic achievement, personal development, and the well-being of its pupils. With a commitment to continuous improvement and a focus on holistic education, Copthill School is well-positioned to continue its positive impact on the lives of its students.
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Last Updated: 8 October 2024