Chase Grammar School

Chase Grammar School, located in Cannock, Staffordshire, is an independent co-educational institution that caters to students aged 2 to 19. The school is owned and managed by Achieve Education and comprises both a prep school and a senior school, which includes a sixth form. The governance structure is supported by an advisory board of directors, along with additional advisors who possess relevant educational experience. The school is fully integrated with the Chase Grammar School International Study Centre, allowing for shared resources and activities between the two institutions.

The school has a clear mission to provide an individualized education that nurtures, enriches, and extends the learning experiences of its pupils. This focus is evident in the school's ethos, Expect to Achieve, which encourages students to set high expectations for their academic and personal achievements. The school aims to foster not only academic success but also personal development and global citizenship among its pupils.

Chase Grammar School has a diverse student body, with a total enrollment of approximately 150 pupils. The school has identified 44 students as having special educational needs and/or disabilities, with nine of these pupils having an education, health, and care plan. The school does not currently have any pupils for whom English is an additional language. The early years setting includes seven children, comprising one Nursery and one Reception class.

The recent inspection conducted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate from April 23 to 25, 2024, highlighted several strengths of the school. The leadership team demonstrates a strong understanding of the needs of their pupils, which enables them to provide a tailored educational experience. The well-being of students is central to the school's development planning, and leaders actively seek the views of pupils, encouraging them to take on leadership roles within the school community. This approach fosters a culture of mutual respect and collaboration among students and staff.

The curriculum at Chase Grammar School is well-planned and supported by an extensive enrichment program. Teachers are knowledgeable and employ a variety of teaching strategies that enable pupils to make good progress. The school emphasizes the importance of challenging students to exceed their own expectations, both academically and personally. Leaders maintain a detailed oversight of pupil progress, allowing for the identification of individual needs and the implementation of targeted support strategies. As a result, pupils generally make good progress from their starting points.

In the early years setting, children learn in a supportive environment that promotes independence and social awareness. The curriculum is designed to provide varied learning opportunities, helping children to explore the world around them. The school's well-being program reinforces the values of mutual respect, equality, and inclusivity, further supporting pupils' personal development. However, the teaching of relationships and sex education (RSE) for older pupils has been identified as an area for improvement, as some students feel that the content does not engage them effectively.

Chase Grammar School has appropriate policies and procedures in place to manage behavior and address bullying. Leaders monitor behavior records effectively, ensuring that they have a clear understanding of individual pupil behavior and can take appropriate action when necessary. However, the implementation of the behavior policy is not always consistent among staff, which can lead to discrepancies in how pupils perceive treatment.

Although the school does not currently have any boarders, it has suitable arrangements in place for the accommodation and welfare of boarding students. Pupils receive personalized careers advice, which prepares them well for life after school. Leaders encourage students to be ambitious about their futures, and older pupils feel well-supported in exploring a range of post-school opportunities.

The school places a high priority on safeguarding and promoting pupil well-being. The policies and procedures in place are effective, and staff receive regular training to ensure they are equipped to handle safeguarding concerns. Leaders take prompt action when necessary and maintain appropriate communication with external agencies.

The inspection report concluded that Chase Grammar School meets all relevant standards in various areas, including leadership and management, the quality of education, pupils' physical and mental health, social and economic education, and safeguarding. The school is commended for its effective oversight and support from the board of directors, which ensures that leaders implement policies and procedures effectively.

In terms of next steps, the inspection team recommended that leaders strengthen the delivery of the RSE curriculum to engage pupils more consistently and ensure that all teachers implement the behavior policy uniformly. This feedback aims to enhance the overall educational experience for pupils and further support their personal development.

Overall, Chase Grammar School is characterized by a strong commitment to providing an individualized education that prioritizes the well-being and development of its pupils. The school fosters a positive learning environment where students are encouraged to challenge themselves and achieve their best, both academically and personally. The leadership team's focus on listening to pupil feedback and promoting a culture of respect and inclusivity contributes to a supportive and enriching educational experience.