Cranmore School

Cranmore School, a Roman Catholic day school located in West Horsley, Surrey, caters to male pupils aged two to sixteen and female pupils aged two to seven. Established in 1968 under the leadership of Canon Peter Freed, the school is governed by the Effingham Schools Trust. The school is divided into three sections: the lower prep school, which includes the Early Years Foundation Stage for pupils aged two to eight; the upper prep school for pupils aged eight to eleven; and the senior school for pupils aged eleven to sixteen.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the school remained open for key workers' children from March to June 2020 and provided remote learning materials for pupils in Reception to Year 8. The inspection process was adapted to include both remote and on-site evidence gathering to ensure safety during the pandemic. The inspection report reflects the school's commitment to maintaining educational quality and compliance with regulatory standards.

The school aims to help all pupils reach their potential by fostering individual talents and meeting their needs within a Christian community based on Gospel teachings. It promotes values such as character, faith, community, compassion, and intellect. The pupil population is diverse, with most students living locally, while some come from a wider area. The school reports that the ability of pupils on entry is above average, with a small percentage requiring support for special educational needs and disabilities. The curriculum is tailored to challenge the most able pupils, including those with special talents in performing arts and sports.

The Independent Schools Inspectorate conducted a focused compliance inspection, which assessed the school's adherence to the Independent School Standards and other relevant regulations. The inspection confirmed that Cranmore School meets all required standards, including those related to safeguarding, health and safety, and the suitability of staff. The school has effective measures in place to promote good behavior, prevent bullying, and ensure the welfare of pupils. The leadership and management demonstrate good skills and knowledge, fulfilling their responsibilities effectively.

The educational quality inspection highlighted the excellent academic achievements of pupils across all abilities, including those in the Early Years Foundation Stage. Pupils exhibit positive attitudes towards learning and achieve well in various extracurricular activities, particularly in sports, music, and drama. Their communication skills are highly developed, and they confidently apply their information and communication technology skills to enhance their learning. The school provides a broad and balanced curriculum, supported by appropriate resources and effective behavior management strategies.

Pupils' personal development is also rated as excellent. They understand the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle and develop positive relationships with peers and staff. The school encourages pupils to take on leadership roles and engage in community service, fostering a sense of responsibility and commitment to the wider community. Pupils demonstrate a strong appreciation of cultural diversity and are taught to respect and tolerate others.

The inspection report recommends that the school consider enabling pupils to receive consistent feedback that clearly identifies their next steps for learning. While the overall quality of education is excellent, the report notes that clear assessment information is not always provided, which can hinder pupils' understanding of how to improve their work. The school is encouraged to enhance its feedback mechanisms to support pupils' learning further.

The inspection evidence included observations of lessons, formal interviews with pupils, and discussions with staff and governors. Inspectors noted that pupils across the school, including those with special educational needs and English as an additional language, develop positive attitudes towards learning and demonstrate diligence in their studies. The school fosters a supportive environment where pupils feel safe and confident to express their concerns and seek help when needed.

Cranmore School's commitment to providing a high-quality education is evident in its structured approach to teaching and learning, as well as its emphasis on personal development and well-being. The school promotes a culture of respect, tolerance, and collaboration, ensuring that pupils are well-prepared for their future endeavors. The positive feedback from parents and the community further underscores the school's reputation as a nurturing and effective educational institution.

In summary, Cranmore School excels in providing a comprehensive educational experience that prioritizes academic achievement, personal development, and community engagement. The school's adherence to regulatory standards and its commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment contribute to the overall success of its pupils. The inspection findings affirm that Cranmore School is well-positioned to continue its mission of helping all pupils fulfill their potential within a Christian framework.