Ripley Court School

Ripley Court School is an independent co-educational day school located in Ripley, Surrey, catering for pupils aged between three and thirteen years. Established in 1893 as a boys' school, it transitioned to a co-educational institution in 1979 and merged with Reed's School in Cobham in October 2019. The school operates under the auspices of a registered charity and is governed by a board of trustees. The school comprises several sections, including The Ark Nursery, Little Court Pre-Prep, Middle Court, and Upper Court, serving a total of 211 pupils, with a diverse demographic primarily drawn from professional backgrounds within a five-mile radius.

The school aims to foster an environment where every child can succeed, celebrating their achievements, regardless of size, to build confidence and unlock their potential. It emphasizes a love for learning, encouraging pupils to develop into kind, curious, and resilient individuals. The school has identified 29 pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, providing tailored support to ensure their inclusion and success. The curriculum is designed to be broad and balanced, allowing for the modification of learning experiences to cater to the needs of more able pupils and those with special talents in various fields.

The regulatory compliance inspection conducted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate confirmed that Ripley Court School meets the standards set forth in the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014. The inspection evaluated various aspects, including the quality of education, spiritual and moral development, welfare and safety, staff suitability, premises, information provision, complaints handling, and leadership quality. The findings indicated that the school effectively safeguards and promotes the welfare of its pupils, maintains good behavior, and prevents bullying. Health and safety requirements are met, and there is a strategic approach to risk assessment.

The quality of education provided is deemed good, with a documented curriculum that supports effective teaching and learning. The school employs its own framework for assessing pupil attainment, which is aligned with the national standards. The teaching methods employed enable pupils to make good progress, and the behavior management strategies in place are effective. The school promotes the spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of its pupils, fostering responsible citizenship and tolerance.

In terms of welfare, health, and safety, the school has established arrangements that adhere to statutory guidance, ensuring that pupils are properly supervised and that health and safety requirements are met. The school maintains accurate admission and attendance registers and has a disability access plan in place. The suitability of staff is rigorously checked, and a register is maintained as required.

The premises are well-maintained, providing suitable facilities for pupils' medical and therapy needs, as well as adequate outdoor space for physical education and play. The school publishes a range of information for parents, including details about the curriculum, admissions, behavior policies, and the complaints procedure. Complaints are handled effectively through a structured process, ensuring transparency and accountability.

The educational quality inspection highlighted that the pupils' academic achievements are good, with those with special educational needs making excellent progress. Pupils demonstrate strong study skills and a positive attitude towards learning, which is supported by high-quality teaching. Their physical development is also commendable, and they communicate confidently. However, there are instances where learning is hindered by a lack of focus on listening to others, and the teaching may not always account for individual abilities.

The personal development of pupils is rated as excellent, with a strong understanding of physical health and well-being. Pupils exhibit high self-esteem and maturity, demonstrating social awareness and the ability to work collaboratively towards common goals. The school encourages pupils to reflect on their decisions and understand the impact of their actions on themselves and others.

The school fosters a sense of community and responsibility among its pupils, encouraging them to engage in charitable activities and support local initiatives. Pupils are involved in environmental projects and demonstrate a strong understanding of sustainability. The leadership and management of the school are effective, ensuring that the ethos of the school is promoted and that the well-being of pupils is prioritized.

Overall, Ripley Court School provides a nurturing environment that supports the academic and personal development of its pupils. The school is committed to maintaining high standards of education and care, ensuring that all pupils are given the opportunity to thrive and succeed in their educational journey. The positive relationships between pupils and staff, along with the school's focus on individual strengths and needs, contribute to a holistic educational experience that prepares pupils for future challenges.