Chinthurst School

Chinthurst School, located on the outskirts of Tadworth, Surrey, is a co-educational day school founded in 1908. It operates as a charitable trust governed by a board of governors and became part of the Reigate Grammar School group in 2017. The school caters to children aged 2 to 11, with a current enrollment of 284 pupils, including 60 in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and 224 in the junior years. The headteacher, Miss Catherine Trundle, and the chair of governors, Mr. Mark Elsey, lead the institution, which aims to foster high academic standards while providing a nurturing environment that encourages pupils to explore new experiences.

The school’s mission is to inspire pupils through a challenging curriculum that includes sports, drama, and music, instilling a love of learning in a supportive atmosphere. Most students come from professional backgrounds within a ten-mile radius, and the school’s assessment data indicates that their abilities are above average. The school supports 61 pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), including conditions such as dyslexia and autism, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance. Additionally, 47 pupils speak English as an additional language, with one requiring extra support.

The recent focused compliance and educational quality inspection conducted in February 2023 confirmed that Chinthurst School meets all the standards set by the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014. The inspection evaluated various aspects of the school, including the quality of education, spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development, welfare, health and safety, staff suitability, premises, information provision, complaints handling, and leadership quality.

The quality of education provided at Chinthurst School is commendable. The school’s assessment framework indicates that teaching enables pupils to make good progress. The curriculum is well-documented and supported by appropriate plans and schemes of work, covering a broad range of subjects. The teaching methods employed promote effective behavior management and are complemented by suitable resources. Relationships education is also provided, with a written policy published after consulting parents.

The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted, fostering responsible and tolerant citizens. The school’s arrangements for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils are robust, adhering to current statutory guidance. Good behavior is encouraged, and measures are in place to prevent bullying. Health and safety requirements are met, including fire safety provisions, and first aid is adequately provided. The school maintains proper supervision of pupils and keeps accurate admission and attendance records.

Chinthurst School ensures the suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors through appropriate checks, maintaining a register as required. The premises are well-maintained, providing suitable facilities for pupils’ medical and therapy needs, and outdoor spaces for physical education and play are available. The school publishes a range of information for parents, including details about the curriculum, admissions, behavior policies, and the complaints procedure.

The handling of parental complaints is effective, following a clear three-stage process that includes informal, formal, and panel hearings. Each stage has defined time scales, and records of complaints and actions taken are maintained appropriately. The leadership and management of the school demonstrate good skills and knowledge, ensuring that the standards are consistently met and promoting the well-being of pupils.

The educational quality inspection highlighted the excellent academic achievements of pupils. Their knowledge, skills, and understanding develop exceptionally well across all subjects, and they exhibit high levels of confidence in communication. Pupils’ study skills progress effectively, and their attitudes towards learning are exemplary. The school successfully fulfills its aim of prioritizing happiness, respect, and well-being, resulting in strong academic outcomes.

Pupils demonstrate outstanding personal development, showcasing self-knowledge, self-confidence, and self-discipline. Their behavior is excellent, and they collaborate effectively with peers, displaying mature social skills. The school’s approach to emotional and behavioral understanding, through the zones of regulation, is highly effective, helping pupils recognize and manage their emotions.

While pupils exhibit a good understanding of spiritual awareness and appreciation of non-material aspects of life, opportunities for further development in this area are limited. The school encourages pupils to engage with their local community, although there is recognition that more could be achieved in this regard.

Pupils’ contributions to the school community are commendable, as they take on various responsibilities and support younger children in their learning. They actively participate in fundraising for charities and engage in initiatives that promote positive change within the school. The school’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is evident, with pupils demonstrating respect for others and valuing different backgrounds.

Overall, Chinthurst School provides a high-quality education that fosters academic excellence and personal development. The school’s nurturing environment, combined with its commitment to high standards, ensures that pupils are well-prepared for their future endeavors. The positive relationships between staff and pupils, along with the strong pastoral care, contribute to a supportive and enriching educational experience. The school’s ethos of inclusivity and respect is reflected in the behavior and attitudes of its pupils, making it a commendable institution for early education.