The Unicorn School
20 Marcham Road, Abingdon, OX14 1AA
Pupils
107
Ages
6 - 16
Gender
Co-educational
Type
Primary & Secondary
Head Teacher
Mr Andrew Day
Boarding / Day
Day
Fees
£8,165 to £11,138
ISC Associations
ISA, ISBA
Religion
Non-denominational
Bursaries
Available
About The Unicorn School
The Unicorn School, located in Abingdon, offers a unique educational experience tailored specifically for children with dyslexia and related learning difficulties. Catering to students aged six to 16, the school provides a nurturing environment where individual needs are met with precision and care. Entry into the school is facilitated through a two-day taster session, which includes a comprehensive dyslexia assessment conducted by the senior management team. This approach ensures that each child’s specific requirements are understood from the outset, allowing for a seamless transition into the school community.
One of the standout features of the school is its ability to accommodate children mid-year and offer quick turnaround for emergency placements, particularly for those who may be refusing to attend their current school. This flexibility is a testament to the school’s commitment to providing immediate support to families in need. Parents often express their gratitude for the school’s timely intervention, with many wishing they had made the switch sooner.
The school’s ethos is centred around equipping children with the skills necessary to reintegrate into mainstream education. Many students transition to independent schools at age 13, including prestigious institutions such as The Oratory, Cokethorpe School, and Shiplake College. Others opt for local state school options. For those who remain, the school offers a limited selection of GCSE subjects, including Maths, English Language and Literature, and Sciences, with additional options in Art and a BTEC in Construction. This focused curriculum allows for more in-depth learning, providing students with the time and support they need to excel.
Class sizes at the school are intentionally kept small, with a maximum of 12 students per class and a staff-to-student ratio of 1:2. This ensures that each child receives personalised attention, with daily one-to-one tuition from a dyslexia specialist. The use of multi-sensory learning techniques, such as kinaesthetic writing and the use of technology like Google Chromebooks and Dragon Software, further enhances the learning experience. The school also employs innovative tools like ‘read’ pens, which allow text to be read aloud during exams, promoting independence and confidence among students.
The curriculum is delivered through engaging topics, with a strong emphasis on immersive learning experiences. For example, Year 5 students exploring Australia might create plaster relief maps or learn Aboriginal art techniques, all while mastering Australian slang. This approach not only makes learning enjoyable but also helps students retain information more effectively.
Sport is an integral part of the school’s offering, with two afternoons dedicated to games such as rugby, hockey, and football. The school utilises excellent facilities, including the grounds of Tilsey Park and Radley pool for swimming. Despite the small student body, the school competes in local leagues, fostering a sense of teamwork and camaraderie.
The school’s pastoral care is highly regarded, with many students arriving with emotional challenges due to previous negative experiences in mainstream settings. The supportive environment at the school helps rebuild their confidence, with mutual respect forming the cornerstone of behaviour management. The updated uniform reflects the school’s orderly nature, instilling a sense of pride and belonging among students.
Therapy and specialist support are integral to the school’s approach, with speech and language therapists and occupational therapy sessions available as needed. The highly qualified staff, many of whom hold advanced degrees in specific learning difficulties, are dedicated to their roles, often going above and beyond to support their students.
Parents are encouraged to engage with the school community through curriculum meetings and social events, fostering a collaborative atmosphere. Communication with staff is open and accessible, ensuring that parents are kept informed and involved in their child’s education.
In summary, the school provides a comprehensive and supportive environment for children with dyslexia and related learning difficulties. Its tailored approach, small class sizes, and dedicated staff make it a standout choice for families seeking specialised education. To receive updates about this school including exam results, senior staff changes and open days please bookmark it using the button at the end of this review.
ISI Review
The Unicorn School, located in Abingdon, Oxfordshire, is a co-educational day school established in 1991, catering for pupils with specific learning difficulties such as dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, and speech, language, and communication needs. The school operates as a charitable foundation and is overseen by a governing body. It serves students aged 6 to 16, with a current enrollment of 108 pupils, divided into 41 juniors and 67 seniors. The school aims to create a nurturing environment that fosters self-confidence and personal learning styles, enabling each child to flourish academically and personally.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the school remained open for children of key workers and vulnerable students, providing remote learning materials during periods of closure. The inspection process was adapted to include both remote and on-site evidence gathering to ensure safety and compliance with health guidelines. The inspection report covers various aspects of the school's operations, including the quality of education, spiritual and moral development, welfare and safety, staff suitability, premises, information provision, complaints handling, and leadership quality.
The Independent Schools Inspectorate conducted a compliance-only inspection, focusing on the school's adherence to the Independent School Standards. The inspection confirmed that the Unicorn School meets all required standards, with no further action needed. The quality of education provided is commendable, with evidence showing that pupils make good progress. The curriculum is well-documented and supported by appropriate plans, ensuring a breadth of material that meets the needs of the pupils. The teaching methods employed are effective, and behavior management strategies are in place to support a positive learning environment.
Pupils participate in relationships education in the junior school and relationships and sex education in the senior school, with the school having consulted parents and published a policy in line with statutory guidance. The school promotes the spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils, encouraging them to become responsible and tolerant citizens. The welfare, health, and safety of pupils are prioritized, with appropriate measures in place to safeguard students, promote good behavior, and prevent bullying. The school meets health and safety requirements, including fire safety, and has provisions for first aid and proper supervision of pupils.
The school conducts thorough checks to ensure the suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors, maintaining a register as required. Facilities are adequate, with suitable toilet and changing facilities, and the premises are maintained to a standard that meets health and safety regulations. The school provides appropriate outdoor space for physical education and play, ensuring a conducive environment for learning and development.
Information is effectively communicated to parents, inspectors, and the Department for Education, covering various aspects such as the school's ethos, curriculum, admission arrangements, behavior policies, and complaints procedures. The school maintains transparency regarding its academic performance and provides parents with reports on their children's progress.
Complaints from parents are handled through a structured three-stage process, ensuring that concerns are addressed effectively and in a timely manner. Records of complaints and actions taken are maintained appropriately, demonstrating the school's commitment to resolving issues and improving its services.
Leadership and management at the Unicorn School are characterized by good skills and knowledge, with the proprietor ensuring that responsibilities are fulfilled effectively. The leadership team actively promotes the well-being of pupils, contributing to a positive school culture and environment.
Overall, the Unicorn School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing quality education and support for pupils with specific learning difficulties. The inspection findings affirm that the school meets all regulatory standards, ensuring a safe, nurturing, and effective learning environment for its students. The school's focus on individual learning styles, personal development, and well-being positions it as a valuable institution for families seeking specialized education for their children. The positive outcomes reflected in the inspection report highlight the school's dedication to fostering an inclusive and supportive educational experience.
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Last Updated: 8 October 2024