Hazlegrove Preparatory School

Hazlegrove Preparatory School, located near Sparkford in Somerset, is a co-educational day and boarding institution founded in 1947. It operates under the King's Bruton foundation, with oversight provided by its governors. The school has recently expanded its Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) offerings by adding a nursery at Sunny Hill, and it has undergone renovations to enhance its science laboratories and art and design technology facilities. The headmaster, Mr. Edward Benbow, has been in position since September 2022.

The school aims to foster a sense of self and well-being in its pupils, promoting lifelong intellectual curiosity and creativity. It emphasizes the development of strong relationships, respect, empathy, and moral values within a nurturing environment, preparing students for their future lives. The core values of the school include kindness, courage, integrity, respect, grace, and generosity.

The student body consists of 438 pupils, with a diverse demographic primarily from professional, military, or business backgrounds within a 20-mile radius. The school accommodates both day pupils and boarders, with a small number of international students. Among the pupils, 16 speak English as an additional language and receive support as needed. The school identifies 46 pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, providing tailored support through its learning support unit. Additionally, gifted and talented students are offered extra challenges to develop their abilities.

The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) conducted a focused compliance inspection, which was combined with an educational quality inspection. The school was found to meet the Independent School Standards and the National Minimum Standards for Boarding Schools, with no further action required following the inspection. The quality of education provided is characterized by effective teaching that enables pupils to make good progress. The curriculum is well-documented and covers a broad range of subjects, supported by appropriate resources and assessment frameworks.

Pupils receive relationships education in the junior school and relationships and sex education in the senior school, with parental consultation and published policies in place. The school promotes spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development, encouraging pupils to become responsible and tolerant citizens. Boarders are supported in developing good relationships based on mutual trust and respect, and their views are actively considered by staff.

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 provisions. An appropriate induction process for new boarders is implemented, ensuring their medical and health care needs are met.

The school conducts thorough checks to ensure the suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors, maintaining a register as required. The premises are well-maintained, providing suitable facilities for pupils' needs, including adequate toilet and changing facilities, and outdoor spaces for physical education and play.

A range of information is published and made available to parents, including details about the school's ethos, curriculum, admission arrangements, and the complaints procedure. Complaints are handled effectively through a structured process, with clear time scales and appropriate record-keeping.

Leadership and management at Hazlegrove Preparatory School demonstrate good skills and knowledge, ensuring that standards are consistently met and promoting pupil well-being. The quality of leadership in the school is effective, with appropriate policies and records maintained.

The educational quality inspection highlighted the excellent academic achievements of pupils, who make significant progress across the curriculum and in extracurricular activities. Pupils exhibit well-developed study skills and a positive attitude towards learning, contributing to their success. The school is particularly effective in guiding pupils to senior schools that match their abilities and talents, with many leaving with scholarships or awards.

Pupils' personal development is also rated as excellent, with high levels of self-confidence and resilience. They demonstrate excellent behavior and relationships with teachers, fostering a supportive atmosphere. Pupils are socially adept, working well together in lessons and extracurricular activities. They understand the importance of maintaining their physical and mental well-being and are supported in developing strategies to manage stress.

The school is advised to enhance pupils' confidence in using information and communication technology (ICT) to prepare them for senior school life. While pupils develop good skills in ICT, there is a need for more routine use of technology in lessons to ensure they are fully prepared for modern learning environments.

Pupils exhibit excellent critical thinking and analytical skills, engaging in experiments and discussions that demonstrate their understanding of various concepts. They relish opportunities to challenge themselves beyond the classroom, achieving success in music, drama, and sports. The school provides numerous extracurricular activities that contribute to pupils' overall achievement and personal growth.

Overall, Hazlegrove Preparatory School successfully creates a nurturing environment where pupils can thrive academically and personally. The school fosters a love of learning, encourages curiosity, and promotes values of kindness and respect, preparing pupils for their future endeavors. The commitment to continuous improvement and the well-being of pupils is evident in the school's practices and ethos.