CoworthFlexlands School

Coworth-Flexlands School is an independent preparatory institution located in Woking, Surrey, catering for male pupils aged 2 to 7 and female pupils aged 2 to 11. The school has a rich history, having been established in 1962 and moving to its current site in 1993. It merged with Flexlands School in 2004 and became part of United Learning in 2018, governed by the United Church Schools Trust. The school is structured into three sections: nursery for children aged 2 to 4, pre-prep for those aged 4 to 7, and prep for pupils aged 7 to 11. The current headteacher has been in position since September 2018, and the chair of governors has served since December 2021.

The school aims to foster a family-like atmosphere where every individual is valued and celebrated. It seeks to inspire pupils to question the world around them and to help them realize their full potential. The school’s assessment data indicates that pupils generally possess above-average abilities compared to national standards. A small number of pupils speak English as an additional language, and the school provides support for those with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that all pupils receive the necessary assistance to thrive.

The recent focused compliance and educational quality inspection conducted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate confirmed that Coworth-Flexlands School meets all the standards set forth in the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014. The inspection highlighted the quality of education provided, noting that teaching enables pupils to make good progress. The curriculum is well-documented and covers a broad range of subjects, supported by effective behavior management and suitable resources. The school also provides relationships education, having consulted with parents and published a policy in line with statutory guidance.

The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted, helping them become responsible and tolerant citizens. The school has established arrangements to safeguard and promote the welfare of pupils, ensuring that health and safety requirements are met, and that bullying is effectively prevented. The school maintains proper supervision of pupils and has a strategic approach to risk assessment, alongside a disability access plan.

In terms of staff suitability, the school conducts appropriate checks to ensure that all staff, including supply staff and proprietors, are suitable to work with children. The premises are well-maintained, providing suitable facilities for pupils’ medical and therapy needs, and ensuring that outdoor spaces are adequate 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.

The inspection also evaluated the manner in which complaints are handled, confirming that parental complaints are addressed effectively through a structured process. 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 focused on two key outcomes: the achievement of pupils and their personal development. The findings indicated that the quality of pupils’ academic achievements is excellent. Pupils exhibit highly effective communication skills and are successful in gaining entry to their chosen senior schools, often achieving scholarships. They demonstrate eagerness to learn and make strong progress across all areas of the curriculum. The school’s effective monitoring of pupil performance using data to guide teaching contributes to this success, particularly for those with special educational needs and those who are less able.

Pupils’ personal development is also rated as excellent. They interact well across age groups, supporting and valuing one another, which fosters a strong family ethos within the school community. Pupils are well-prepared for the next stages of their lives, exhibiting self-confidence and self-awareness. They take on responsibilities within the school with enthusiasm and maturity, working collaboratively with their peers.

The inspection recommended that the school strengthen pupils’ understanding of how to improve their own learning and performance, as well as enhance their ability to use their initiative and learn independently. While pupils demonstrate strong progress, there are opportunities for further development in encouraging them to expand their learning beyond set tasks.

Pupils’ knowledge, skills, and understanding are well-developed through a broad and balanced curriculum. They exhibit advanced skills in core subjects, with notable achievements in literacy and numeracy. The school’s emphasis on creativity and critical thinking is evident in various subjects, including art and music, where pupils showcase their talents and knowledge. The curriculum also includes opportunities for pupils to engage in physical education and extracurricular activities, contributing to their overall development.

Pupils are highly engaged and committed learners, displaying excellent attitudes towards their education. They are attentive and focused in lessons, actively participating in discussions and collaborative tasks. The school’s nurturing environment encourages pupils to take risks in their learning, fostering resilience and adaptability.

The personal development of pupils is further enhanced through the school’s commitment to promoting values of respect, tolerance, and kindness. Pupils demonstrate strong moral development, distinguishing between right and wrong and exhibiting courteous behavior towards one another. They are actively involved in the life of the school, contributing positively to the well-being of their peers and participating in various initiatives and responsibilities.

Pupils’ social awareness is excellent, as they engage cooperatively with one another and support their peers. The school’s ethos of kindness and mutual respect is evident in the relationships formed between pupils and staff. The school promotes an inclusive environment where pupils from diverse backgrounds feel valued and respected.

Overall, Coworth-Flexlands School provides a high-quality education that supports the academic and personal development of its pupils. The school’s commitment to fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment, alongside its effective teaching practices, ensures that pupils are well-prepared for their future endeavors. The positive feedback from the inspection reflects the school’s dedication to meeting the needs of all its pupils and promoting their overall well-being.