Taunton School

Taunton School, established in 1847, has a rich history of providing education to boarders and day boys from non-conformist families. The school relocated to its current site in 1870 and became fully co-educational in 1973. It caters to students aged 13 to 19, offering both boarding and day schooling. Taunton School International, located on an adjacent site, provides intensive one- and two-year GCSE courses for both international and British pupils. The institution operates as a registered charity governed by a board of 15 governors, many of whom have historical ties to the school. Since the last inspection, significant investments have been made in the boarding facilities and overall refurbishment.

The school's mission is to nurture, challenge, and inspire young people to thrive in a global community. It emphasizes preparing students for life beyond school in an ever-evolving world. As an International Baccalaureate World School, Taunton School aims to be innovative and forward-thinking while maintaining a grounded approach to education.

The student body is diverse, with day pupils primarily from professional British families and boarding pupils hailing from 38 different countries, including those from military families. Data indicates that the academic ability of pupils in the senior section up to Year 11 is average compared to national standards, while those in Years 12 and 13 perform above average. The school has identified 142 pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, including dyslexia and dyspraxia, with 67 receiving additional support. Additionally, 230 pupils are classified as having English as an additional language, with 97 receiving extra assistance.

The regulatory compliance inspection is conducted by the Department for Education, which oversees independent schools. The Independent Schools Inspectorate is responsible for inspecting schools that are members of the Independent Schools Council. The inspection evaluates whether the school meets the Independent School Standards and assesses the school's accessibility plan and compliance with the ban on corporal punishment. The inspection also reviews the school's progress in addressing any compliance action points from previous inspections.

The recent inspection concluded that Taunton School meets all the standards set forth in the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014 and the National Minimum Standards for Boarding Schools 2015. No further action is required following this inspection.

In terms of educational quality, Taunton School has demonstrated strong performance in GCSE results from 2016 to 2019, consistently exceeding the national average for maintained schools. A-level results during the same period have also been above the national average for sixth formers. The International Baccalaureate results have been notably high, surpassing the global average for IB candidates. The curriculum is well-documented and supported by appropriate plans and schemes of work, ensuring that pupils make good progress. Effective behavior management and suitable resources further enhance the teaching environment, and a robust assessment framework is in place to evaluate pupil performance.

The school actively promotes the spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of its pupils. Principles and values that foster personal development as responsible and tolerant citizens are emphasized. The views of boarders are encouraged and considered by staff, and any prefect systems in place are managed effectively.

Regarding the welfare, health, and safety of pupils, Taunton School has established arrangements that comply with current statutory guidance. The school promotes good behavior and takes measures to prevent bullying. Health and safety requirements, including fire safety, are met, and first aid provisions are in place. Pupils are adequately supervised, and attendance registers are maintained. A strategic approach to risk assessment is evident, and a disability access plan is implemented.

The school has a suitable induction process for new boarders and provides appropriate medical and health care, food and drink, and laundry services. Boarders have opportunities for contact with family and friends and access to a range of activities. Boarding staff are well-trained and appropriately deployed.

Taunton School conducts thorough checks to ensure the suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors, maintaining a register as required. Visitors to boarding accommodations are supervised, and the school's guardianship arrangements are effectively managed.

The premises and accommodation meet the required standards, providing suitable toilet, changing, and showering facilities. The school maintains its premises to a high standard, ensuring health and safety, adequate acoustics, lighting, and water provision. Sufficient outdoor space is available for physical education and play, and boarding accommodations are adequate for the needs of all boarders, promoting their welfare.

The school publishes a range of information for parents, inspectors, and the Department for Education, including details about the proprietor, school ethos, curriculum, admission arrangements, behavior policies, health and safety protocols, and the complaints procedure. The safeguarding policy is available on the school’s website, and a statement of boarding principles and practice is published.

Complaints from parents are handled effectively through a structured three-stage process, ensuring clear timelines and appropriate record-keeping. The leadership and management of the school demonstrate good skills and knowledge, fulfilling their responsibilities effectively and promoting the well-being of pupils. The management of boarding is appropriate, ensuring that required policies and records are maintained and monitored.

Overall, Taunton School has shown a commitment to providing a high-quality education and a safe, supportive environment for its pupils. The recent inspection confirms that the school meets all necessary standards, reflecting its dedication to continuous improvement and excellence in education.