The Yarlet School

Yarlet School is an independent co-educational day and boarding school located in Staffordshire, England. Established in the late 19th century as a boys' school, it transitioned to a charitable educational trust in 1970 and has been co-educational since 1994. The school operates a flexible boarding system, allowing pupils to board from the age of seven. The Nursery and pre-prep sections cater to children aged two to seven, while the main school serves pupils aged two to thirteen. As of November 2022, the school has a total enrollment of 161 pupils, with 94 day pupils and 67 boarders.

The school's mission is to provide a high-quality education that enables pupils to reach their full potential. It aims to cultivate confident, responsible young adults who understand the importance of good behavior, manners, and respect for others. The school prides itself on its commitment to fostering a supportive and nurturing environment for all its students.

The majority of pupils at Yarlet School live nearby, and the school’s assessment data indicates that their academic abilities are above average compared to national standards. The school has identified 29 pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, primarily those with mild learning, concentration, or processing difficulties. Additionally, one pupil has an education, health, and care plan, and another speaks English as an additional language, receiving extra support for their language development. The school also recognizes 28 pupils as the most able, providing a modified curriculum to meet their needs.

In November 2022, the Independent Schools Inspectorate conducted a regulatory compliance inspection at Yarlet School. The inspection aimed to assess the school's adherence to the Independent School Standards and the National Minimum Standards for Boarding Schools. The inspection concluded that the school meets all applicable standards, with no further action required.

The quality of education provided at Yarlet School is commendable. The school's assessment framework confirms that teaching enables pupils to make good progress. The curriculum is well-documented and supported by appropriate plans and schemes of work, ensuring a broad range of material is covered. Effective behavior management strategies are in place, and suitable resources support the teaching process. The school also provides boarders with access to a well-structured program of activities.

Pupils receive relationships education in the junior school and relationships and sex education in the senior school, in accordance with statutory guidance. The school has consulted parents and published a written policy statement regarding these subjects. Overall, the standards related to the quality of education are met.

Yarlet School actively promotes the spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of its pupils. The school encourages principles and values that foster personal development, helping pupils become responsible and tolerant citizens. Boarders' views are valued, and their opinions are considered by staff, promoting a culture of mutual respect and trust. The prefect system, where applicable, is managed effectively, contributing to a positive school environment.

The welfare, health, and safety of pupils are prioritized at Yarlet School. The school has established arrangements to safeguard and promote pupil welfare, adhering to current statutory guidance. Good behavior is encouraged, and measures are in place to prevent bullying. Health and safety requirements, including fire safety, are met, and first aid provisions are available. Pupils are adequately supervised, and attendance registers are maintained. The school has a strategic approach to risk assessment and has implemented a disability access plan.

An appropriate induction process for new boarders is in place, ensuring they receive suitable medical and health care, as well as proper food and drink provisions. Boarding staff are well-trained and deployed effectively, ensuring that boarders have the necessary support and supervision.

The school conducts appropriate checks to ensure the suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors. A register is maintained as required, and visitors to boarding accommodation are supervised appropriately. The arrangements for guardianship are also managed effectively, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils.

Yarlet School provides suitable facilities for pupils, including adequate toilet and changing facilities, as well as showering facilities where necessary. The premises are maintained to a high standard, ensuring health and safety requirements are met. The school provides sufficient outdoor space for physical education and play, and the boarding accommodation meets the needs of all boarders, promoting their welfare.

The school publishes a range of information for parents, inspectors, and the Department for Education. This includes details about the school's ethos, curriculum, admission arrangements, behavior policies, health and safety measures, 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, which includes informal, formal, and panel hearing stages. Each stage has clear timelines, and records of complaints and actions taken are maintained appropriately.

The leadership and management at Yarlet School demonstrate good skills and knowledge, ensuring that the standards are consistently met. The proprietor actively promotes the well-being of pupils and ensures that the required policies and records are maintained and monitored effectively.

In summary, Yarlet School provides a high-quality educational experience for its pupils, meeting all regulatory compliance standards. The school fosters a supportive environment that promotes academic achievement, personal development, and the well-being of all students. The commitment to safeguarding, effective leadership, and a well-rounded curriculum contributes to the overall success of the school.