Halliford School

Halliford School is an independent day school located in Shepperton, Middlesex, founded in 1921. The school moved to its current site in 1929 and comprises a senior school for male pupils and a co-educational sixth form. It operates as a limited company overseen by a board of governors who also serve as trustees of the charity. Since the last inspection, the school has made significant improvements, including the opening of new music technology facilities, science laboratories, and a learning resource center.

The school aims to foster a warm-hearted community with strong family values, providing high-quality teaching and learning, outstanding pastoral care, and first-class opportunities in sports, culture, and co-curricular activities. Pupils come from diverse professional backgrounds, primarily residing within 20 miles of the school. The overall ability of pupils upon entry is above average compared to national standards. The school supports 45 pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, ensuring they receive appropriate assistance in the classroom. Additionally, the curriculum is tailored for 66 more able pupils and 42 others with special talents in various fields.

The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) conducted a focused compliance inspection combined with an educational quality inspection. The ISI is authorized to inspect schools that are members of associations forming the Independent Schools Council. The inspection assesses compliance with the Independent School Standards and evaluates the school's accessibility plan and adherence to regulations regarding corporal punishment. The focused compliance inspection specifically examines standards related to safeguarding, bullying prevention, health and safety, staff suitability, information provision, complaints handling, and leadership quality.

The key findings from the inspection indicate that Halliford School meets all the standards set forth in the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014, requiring no further action. The quality of education provided is commendable, with pupils making good progress in their studies. The curriculum is well-documented and supported by effective plans and schemes of work, ensuring a broad range of material is covered. Teaching practices are effective, promoting good behavior and supported by suitable resources. The school provides relationships and sex education in accordance with statutory guidance.

The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted, fostering responsible and tolerant citizens. The welfare, health, and safety of pupils are prioritized, with arrangements in place to safeguard their well-being, promote good behavior, and prevent bullying. Health and safety requirements are met, and appropriate first aid provisions are available. The school maintains proper supervision of pupils and keeps accurate attendance records.

The school conducts appropriate checks to ensure the suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors, maintaining a register as required. The premises are well-maintained, providing suitable facilities for pupils' medical and therapy needs, and ensuring adequate outdoor space for physical education. A range of information is published and made available to parents, including details about the school's ethos, curriculum, admission arrangements, and the complaints procedure.

Parental complaints are handled effectively through a structured three-stage process, ensuring clear timelines and appropriate record-keeping. The leadership and management of the school demonstrate good skills and knowledge, fulfilling their responsibilities effectively and promoting the well-being of pupils.

The educational quality inspection highlights the excellent quality of pupils' academic achievements. Pupils are highly motivated and demonstrate strong progress from their starting points, achieving well in examinations. The school’s A-level results from 2022 show that three-fifths of entries were graded A* to B, with similar results in previous years. Most pupils secure places at their first-choice universities, including those with highly selective entry requirements. At the GCSE level, around a third of results were at grades 9 to 7 in 2022, reflecting consistent high performance.

Pupils exhibit excellent communication skills, articulating their views confidently in and out of the classroom. They excel in various activities, particularly in sports, art, music, and drama, applying their skills in numeracy and information and communication technology across the curriculum. The school encourages pupils to develop their talents through a wide range of extracurricular activities, with many achieving high levels of success in competitions.

The personal development of pupils is also rated as excellent. They develop self-understanding, self-belief, and self-confidence as they progress through the school. Pupils are well-behaved, polite, and respectful, forming strong relationships with peers and staff. The school environment fosters acceptance and celebration of diversity, allowing pupils to be themselves. Collaborative work is encouraged, and pupils support each other in various activities.

The school promotes a strong sense of service to the community, with pupils actively participating in charitable initiatives and supporting local causes. They demonstrate a keen awareness of environmental issues and engage in activities that promote sustainability. The school’s PSHE program equips pupils with the knowledge to make informed decisions regarding their health and well-being, emphasizing the importance of physical fitness and mental health.

Pupils exhibit excellent study skills, thinking creatively and analyzing information critically. They take charge of their learning, often seeking to understand the broader context of their studies. However, in some lessons, a minority of pupils may not be sufficiently challenged, which can inhibit their natural curiosity and progress.

Overall, Halliford School provides a nurturing and stimulating environment where pupils thrive academically and personally. The school’s commitment to high standards of education, pastoral care, and community involvement ensures that pupils are well-prepared for their future endeavors. The inspection findings affirm the school's effectiveness in meeting the needs of its pupils and maintaining a positive and inclusive school culture.