Edenhurst Preparatory School

Edenhurst School is an independent day school located in Newcastle under Lyme, Staffordshire, catering for boys and girls aged from three months to eleven years. Founded in 1961 by Mr. and Mrs. W.A. Copestick, the school has a rich history and is currently owned and governed by the Bellevue Education Group. The school comprises a Nursery for younger children, a pre-Prep section for Reception and Years 1 and 2, and a Prep section for Years 3 to 6. The school operates daily hours that are consistent across all age groups, with the Nursery open year-round and various activities available during school holidays.

The school aims to nurture individual talents and gifts while addressing the personal needs of each child. It employs innovative teaching methods, utilizing the latest information and communication technology across a broad curriculum. This approach is designed to inspire pupils and achieve excellent results in academics, sports, music, drama, and a wide range of extracurricular activities. The school has recently expanded its age range and added facilities such as an all-weather pitch, enhancing its educational offerings.

Pupils at Edenhurst School come from diverse professional backgrounds within a ten-mile radius, predominantly of White British origin, with a mix of other ethnicities reflecting the local community. The school has identified a small number of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, providing them with additional support. Nationally standardized test data indicates that the pupils' abilities are above average, and the school has a strong focus on ensuring that all children, including those with English as an additional language, receive the necessary support to thrive.

The previous inspection in January 2011 provided recommendations that the school has successfully addressed, including setting clear targets for pupils and enhancing the role of curriculum coordinators. The current inspection highlights that the quality of pupils' academic and other achievements is excellent. Pupils demonstrate exceptional skills in various areas, including technology, and show a mature and positive attitude towards their learning. They actively support and encourage one another, taking responsibility for their own improvement.

The personal development of pupils is also rated as excellent. They exhibit strong social skills, working collaboratively to achieve common goals. From an early age, pupils are encouraged to take on responsibilities, which fosters confidence, flexibility, and resilience. The school’s core values of courtesy, honesty, respect, and endeavor are deeply ingrained in the pupils, who understand the importance of these values in the wider community.

The school provides a well-structured personal, social, and health education curriculum, alongside a thoughtful assembly program that helps pupils develop their understanding of themselves and their place in the world. Pupils are well-prepared for the next stages of their education, demonstrating maturity and a strong moral compass. They engage in community service and charitable activities, reflecting an ethos of empathy and service to others.

Edenhurst School's commitment to ecological awareness is evident, with pupils actively participating in initiatives that promote environmental responsibility. They learn about the importance of preserving biodiversity and engage in activities that contribute to this goal. The school fosters a culture of respect, tolerance, and acceptance of different cultural traditions, encouraging pupils to share their customs and learn from one another.

The school has a robust system in place for ensuring the safety and well-being of its pupils. They are educated on how to maintain a balanced lifestyle, make healthy choices, and understand the importance of emotional well-being. The pastoral care provided by staff is comprehensive, ensuring that pupils' needs are met and that they feel valued and supported.

Overall, Edenhurst School is characterized by its commitment to academic excellence, personal development, and the well-being of its pupils. The school environment is nurturing and supportive, allowing children to thrive both academically and personally. The strong sense of community, combined with a focus on individual talents and a broad curriculum, prepares pupils exceptionally well for their future educational endeavors. The school’s dedication to fostering a positive and inclusive atmosphere is reflected in the high levels of satisfaction expressed by parents and the strong relationships built within the school community.