Pinewood School

Pinewood School is a co-educational independent boarding and day school catering for pupils aged three to thirteen. Established in 1875, the school is situated in a large, extended house set within 84 acres of countryside near Bourton, on the Oxfordshire and Wiltshire border. The boarding facilities are located within the main building, with separate floors for boys and girls. The pre-prep department, which includes the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), is housed in a self-contained building close to the main school. The prep department is organized into three sections: Lower School for Years 3 and 4, Middle School for Years 5 and 6, and Upper School for Years 7 and 8.

In 1938, Pinewood School became a charitable educational trust and is currently overseen by a council of governors. Originally a boys' school, it became coeducational in 1976. Since the last inspection, the school has added a new sports hall and refurbished the boarding rooms. The school aims to unlock the potential of its pupils by fostering character, curiosity, learning, and skills through various opportunities in academic, sporting, musical, dramatic, and artistic fields, as well as through its activity and adventure programs. It strives to create a happy, secure, and fulfilling environment that nurtures courteous, kind, and considerate pupils who possess a degree of independence grounded in traditional Christian values.

Pupils at Pinewood School primarily come from the surrounding area, with most being from a White British and professional background. The school's assessments indicate that the ability of pupils upon entry is above average, although the small cohort sizes limit the reliability of these evaluations. The school has identified 82 pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), with 56 receiving additional specialist support. There is one pupil with an education, health, and care (EHC) plan. The majority of SEND cases relate to processing and sequencing skills, speech and language needs, hearing or visual impairments, and autism spectrum disorder. Additionally, there are eight pupils who have English as an additional language (EAL). More able pupils are catered for in lessons and through an enrichment program, with the curriculum adapted for potential scholars in Years 7 and 8.

The regulatory compliance inspection, conducted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI), assesses whether the school meets the Independent School Standards and the National Minimum Standards for Boarding Schools. The inspection found that Pinewood School meets all required standards, with no further action needed. The quality of education provided is evaluated through various parts, including the curriculum, teaching effectiveness, and pupil progress. The school uses its own framework to determine attainment in the junior school, rather than the national framework. The documented curriculum is supported by appropriate plans and schemes of work, enabling pupils to make good progress. The teaching incorporates effective behavior management and is supported by suitable resources.

The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted, fostering responsible and tolerant citizens. Boarders' views are encouraged and considered by staff, and any prefect system in place is managed appropriately. The welfare, health, and safety of pupils are prioritized, with arrangements in place to safeguard and promote their well-being. The school meets health and safety requirements, including fire safety, and provides first aid. Pupils are properly supervised, and attendance registers are maintained. The school has a disability access plan in place.

The suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors is ensured through appropriate checks, and a register is maintained as required. Visitors to boarding accommodation are supervised, and the school's guardianship arrangements are managed effectively. The premises and accommodation meet the necessary standards, providing suitable facilities for pupils' medical and therapy needs, as well as adequate outdoor space for physical education and play. The school publishes a range of information for parents, including details about the curriculum, admission arrangements, behavior policies, and the complaints procedure.

Parental complaints are handled effectively through a three-stage process, with clear time scales and appropriate record-keeping. The leadership and management of the school demonstrate good skills and knowledge, ensuring that standards are consistently met and promoting the well-being of pupils. The educational quality inspection focuses on the achievement of pupils and their personal development. The quality of pupils' academic and other achievements is deemed excellent, with strong foundations laid in the early years leading to continued success throughout the school. Pupils are highly adept at independent research and demonstrate a positive attitude towards their learning.

The personal development of pupils is also excellent, with strong self-knowledge, self-esteem, and self-confidence fostered through various programs and activities. Pupils are encouraged to reflect on their experiences and develop a mature understanding of tolerance, respect, and social issues. The school provides a comprehensive enrichment program that enhances pupils' learning experiences across various subjects, including art, sport, music, and drama. The school actively promotes healthy choices and physical activity, ensuring that pupils understand the importance of a balanced diet and exercise.

Overall, Pinewood School successfully meets its aim of releasing the potential of every pupil by developing character, curiosity, learning, and skills. The school fosters an environment where pupils thrive academically and personally, preparing them well for the next stages of their education. The combination of a supportive community, a broad curriculum, and a focus on personal development contributes to the overall success and well-being of the pupils at Pinewood School.