Hurtwood House School
Holmbury St Mary, Dorking, RH5 6NU
Pupils
355
Ages
15 - 18
Gender
Co-educational
Type
Secondary
Head Teacher
Mr K R B Jackson
Boarding / Day
Day and Full Boarding
Fees
£10,796
ISC Associations
ISA, ISBA
Religion
Non-denominational
Bursaries
Available
About Hurtwood House School
Hurtwood House School, located in the picturesque area of Dorking, is a unique educational establishment that offers a co-educational environment for students aged 15 to 18. With a non-denominational approach, the school welcomes students from all faiths, fostering an inclusive and diverse community. The school provides both day and full boarding options, catering for a wide range of student needs and preferences.
The academic performance at Hurtwood House is noteworthy, particularly at the A-level stage. The school ranks 102nd nationally for A-level results, with an impressive 20.6% of students achieving an A* grade. Furthermore, 51.6% of students attain A*/A grades, and 82.3% secure A*/B grades, reflecting the school’s strong emphasis on academic excellence. These results are a testament to the dedicated teaching staff and the supportive learning environment that the school cultivates.
The curriculum at Hurtwood House is broad and balanced, offering a wide array of subjects that cater to diverse interests and career aspirations. Students can choose from traditional subjects such as Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry, as well as more creative options like Drama and Art. This variety ensures that students can tailor their education to suit their individual strengths and passions, preparing them well for future academic and professional pursuits.
Beyond academics, Hurtwood House places a strong emphasis on extra-curricular activities, recognising the importance of a well-rounded education. The school offers a plethora of opportunities for students to engage in sports, music, and drama, among other activities. These programmes not only enhance students’ skills and talents but also contribute to their overall wellbeing, promoting a healthy balance between academic and personal development.
The pastoral care at Hurtwood House is another significant aspect of the school’s offering. With a focus on student wellbeing, the school provides a supportive and nurturing environment where students can thrive. The dedicated pastoral team works closely with students to ensure their emotional and social needs are met, fostering a sense of belonging and community within the school.
Hurtwood House’s facilities are designed to support both academic and extra-curricular pursuits. The school boasts state-of-the-art classrooms, science laboratories, and creative arts spaces, providing students with the resources they need to excel in their studies. Additionally, the school’s sports facilities are well-equipped, encouraging students to participate in a range of physical activities and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
The school’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its national rankings, with a Times National Rank of 193rd. While the GCSE results are not as high as the A-level outcomes, with a rank of 280th, the school continues to strive for improvement and success across all areas. The dedication of the teaching staff and the supportive learning environment contribute significantly to the school’s achievements and reputation.
In conclusion, Hurtwood House School offers a comprehensive and enriching educational experience for its students. With a strong focus on academic excellence, a diverse curriculum, and a wide range of extra-curricular activities, the school prepares students well for their future endeavours. The emphasis on pastoral care and student wellbeing further enhances the school’s offering, creating a nurturing and supportive environment for all students. To receive updates about this school including exam results, senior staff changes and open days please bookmark it using the button at the end of this review.
ISI Review
Hurtwood House School, founded in 1970, is a family-owned co-educational sixth-form school located near Dorking, Surrey. The school is situated in an Edwardian country house surrounded by extensive grounds and is operated by a limited liability partnership consisting of the proprietors, who also play active roles in the school's senior leadership and management team. The school has eight boarding houses, with two located on campus and six within a short drive from the main site. Currently, the school is in the process of constructing a new health center to enhance its facilities.
The primary aim of Hurtwood House School is to provide an educational environment that fosters high achievement, creativity, and professionalism while maintaining a caring and structured atmosphere. The school emphasizes the development of independence, self-discipline, and good behavior, encouraging pupils to take responsibility for their own learning and personal growth both inside and outside the classroom.
The student body consists of 363 pupils, with the majority boarding at the school. Approximately one-third of the pupils come from overseas, contributing to a diverse learning environment. Nationally standardized tests indicate that the ability profile of the pupils is broadly average. The school supports a range of needs, with 107 pupils identified as having special educational needs and/or disabilities, and 110 pupils for whom English is an additional language. The school provides tailored support for these students, ensuring that all pupils, including those with particular gifts and talents, receive appropriate educational opportunities.
The Independent Schools Inspectorate conducted a regulatory compliance inspection in September 2022, focusing on the school's adherence to the Independent School Standards and the National Minimum Standards for Boarding Schools. The inspection concluded that Hurtwood House School meets all the required standards, with no further action needed as a result of the inspection.
In terms of educational quality, the school offers a curriculum that is well-documented and supported by appropriate plans and schemes of work. Teaching practices enable pupils to make good progress, and the school employs effective behavior management strategies. The assessment framework in place allows for the monitoring of pupils' performance, and boarders have access to a suitable program of extracurricular activities. The school also provides relationships and sex education, ensuring that it complies with statutory guidance and has consulted parents on its policies.
The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted at Hurtwood House. The school fosters principles and values that encourage pupils to become responsible, tolerant, and law-abiding citizens. Boarders are encouraged to express their views, and their opinions are taken into account by staff. The school supports the development of positive relationships among pupils and staff, based on mutual trust and respect.
The welfare, health, and safety of pupils are prioritized, with arrangements in place to safeguard and promote their well-being. The school adheres to current statutory guidance, promotes good behavior, and takes measures 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. A strategic approach to risk assessment is implemented, and a disability access plan is in place to ensure inclusivity.
Hurtwood House School has established an appropriate induction process for new boarders, ensuring that their medical and health care needs are met. The school provides suitable food and drink, manages boarders' laundry and possessions, and facilitates contact with friends and family. Boarding staff are well-trained and effectively deployed to support the needs of the pupils.
The school conducts thorough checks to ensure the suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors, maintaining a register as required. Visitors to boarding accommodation are appropriately supervised, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
The premises and accommodation at Hurtwood House are well-maintained, providing suitable facilities for pupils' needs. Adequate toilet and changing facilities, as well as showering facilities, are available. The school ensures that the premises meet health and safety standards, with appropriate acoustics, lighting, and water provision. Outdoor spaces are provided for physical education and play, and the boarding accommodation is sufficient to meet the needs of all boarders while promoting their welfare.
Hurtwood House School publishes a range of information for parents, inspectors, and the Department for Education. This includes details about the school's ethos, curriculum, admission arrangements, behavior policies, health and safety measures, and the complaints procedure. The safeguarding policy is accessible on the school's website, and a statement of boarding principles and practice is published to inform stakeholders.
The school has established an effective three-stage process for handling parental complaints, which includes informal discussions, formal complaints, and a hearing before an independent panel. Clear time scales are set for each stage, and records of complaints and actions taken are maintained appropriately.
Leadership and management at Hurtwood House are characterized by good skills and knowledge, ensuring that the school consistently meets the required standards. The proprietor actively promotes the well-being of pupils, and appropriate policies and records are maintained to support effective management of the boarding provision.
Overall, Hurtwood House School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality educational experience for its pupils, ensuring their welfare, safety, and personal development while meeting all regulatory compliance standards. The school's focus on fostering a supportive and enriching environment contributes to the success and well-being of its diverse student body.
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Last Updated: 8 October 2024