City of London Freemen's School

City of London Freemen’s School is an independent co-educational day and boarding school located in Ashtead, Surrey, catering for pupils aged 7 to 18. Founded in 1854, the school was established to educate the orphans of Freemen of the City of London and has since evolved into a prominent educational institution overseen by the City of London Corporation. The school is divided into junior and senior sections, each housed in its own building, and has recently refurbished a Georgian mansion to serve as a sixth form center.

The school’s mission is to foster a community where all members are encouraged to learn, lead, and make a difference. It aims to nurture pupils to be ambitious and to expand their intellectual and social horizons across various domains, including athletics, creativity, emotional intelligence, and spirituality. The school promotes determination, innovation, confidence, curiosity, independence, and wisdom, preparing pupils for future success.

The student body consists of a mix of day and boarding pupils, with a significant number of international students, particularly from Hong Kong and mainland China. The school supports a diverse range of needs, with identified pupils receiving additional help for special educational needs and disabilities, as well as those for whom English is an additional language. The curriculum is tailored to meet the needs of more able pupils, ensuring that all students are appropriately challenged.

The recent focused compliance and educational quality inspection conducted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate confirmed that the school meets all regulatory standards. The inspection highlighted the quality of education provided, noting that teaching enables pupils to make good progress. In the junior school, assessment frameworks confirm that pupils are achieving well, while in the senior school, GCSE and A-level results from recent years demonstrate strong academic performance.

The curriculum is comprehensive and well-documented, covering a breadth of material that supports effective teaching and learning. The school provides relationships education in the junior school and relationships and sex education in the senior school, adhering to statutory guidance and involving parental consultation.

The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted, fostering responsible and tolerant citizens. The school encourages boarders to express their views and supports them in building positive relationships based on mutual respect. The leadership and management of the school are effective, ensuring that policies and practices are in place to maintain high standards of welfare, health, and safety.

The school has established robust safeguarding measures, promoting good behavior and preventing bullying. Health and safety requirements are met, and appropriate first aid provisions are in place. The school maintains accurate admission and attendance records and implements a strategic approach to risk assessment.

The suitability of staff is rigorously checked, with appropriate supervision for visitors to boarding accommodations. The school’s premises are well-maintained, providing suitable facilities for pupils’ needs, including adequate toilet and changing facilities, and outdoor spaces for physical education.

Information is effectively communicated to parents, including details about the school’s ethos, curriculum, and policies regarding admissions, behavior, and health and safety. The complaints procedure is clearly defined, allowing for effective resolution of parental concerns.

The educational quality inspection further affirmed the school’s excellence in academic and personal development. Pupils demonstrate a high level of knowledge, skills, and understanding, achieving outstanding examination results. Their positive attitudes towards learning, motivation, and work ethic contribute to their success. Communication skills are well-developed, with pupils articulating their ideas clearly and collaborating effectively with peers.

Pupils exhibit strong personal development, showing maturity in their relationships and a deep understanding of personal responsibility. They engage in leadership opportunities and value diversity within the school community. The school’s ethos promotes respect and tolerance, with pupils actively participating in community service and charitable initiatives.

The school encourages a culture of kindness and respect, with a behavior policy based on restorative approaches. Pupils are socially aware, interacting confidently and positively with one another and staff. They take pride in their contributions to the school and local community, participating in various extracurricular activities that enhance their personal growth.

Pupils are equipped with excellent study skills, developing independent learning strategies that prepare them for future challenges. They engage in a wide range of academic and extracurricular pursuits, demonstrating a commitment to their personal and academic development. The school’s leadership fosters an environment where pupils feel safe and supported, promoting mental and physical well-being.

Overall, City of London Freemen’s School provides a high-quality educational experience, characterized by strong academic achievement, personal development, and a commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive community. The school’s dedication to excellence is reflected in its robust curriculum, effective leadership, and the positive outcomes achieved by its pupils.