Crescent School

Crescent School, an independent co-educational day school located in Rugby, Warwickshire, caters to pupils aged 4 to 11. It operates under the Princethorpe Foundation, which oversees three schools. The school aims to provide an outstanding all-round education in a nurturing environment that supports the needs and interests of every child. It embraces a broadly Christian ethos, welcoming pupils from all faith backgrounds and fostering their awareness of their role within the wider community.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the school remained open only for children of key workers from March to August 2020, providing remote learning materials for all pupils. The inspection process was adapted to include both remote and on-site evidence gathering to minimize contact. The inspection did not evaluate the effectiveness of provisions made during the pandemic, as per the Department for Education's guidance.

The school’s assessment indicates that pupils' abilities are above average, with 20 pupils requiring support for special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). The school provides additional support for these pupils, who face various learning difficulties, but none have an education, health, and care (EHC) plan, and there are no pupils with English as an additional language.

The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) conducted a focused compliance inspection combined with an educational quality inspection. The compliance inspection assessed the school’s adherence to the Independent School Standards, including safeguarding, health and safety, staff suitability, and the handling of complaints. The educational quality inspection focused on the pupils' academic achievements and personal development.

The key findings from the compliance inspection revealed that Crescent School meets all the standards set by the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014. The school has effective measures in place to safeguard pupils, promote good behavior, prevent bullying, and ensure health and safety requirements are met. The school maintains appropriate staff suitability checks and keeps a register as required. The premises are well-maintained, providing suitable facilities for pupils' medical and therapy needs, and there is adequate outdoor space for physical education.

The school publishes a range of information for parents, including details about its ethos, curriculum, admissions, behavior, and health and safety arrangements. Complaints are handled effectively through a structured process, and the leadership demonstrates good skills and knowledge, ensuring that standards are consistently met.

The educational quality inspection highlighted that the quality of pupils' academic achievements is excellent. Pupils exhibit strong knowledge, skills, and understanding, showing high motivation and willingness to learn. They make significant progress from their starting points, particularly in lessons that encourage active participation. The curriculum is broad and effectively taught, with pupils achieving well above national age-related expectations by the end of their reception year. Older pupils consistently exceed expectations, with many gaining places at their first-choice senior schools.

Pupils' personal development is also rated as excellent. They maintain high standards of behavior and self-regulation, demonstrating kindness and mutual support. The school fosters a community-minded atmosphere, encouraging pupils to take on significant responsibilities. They exhibit resilience, humility, and self-confidence, contributing positively to the school environment.

The inspection recommended that the school consider enhancing pupils' progress by increasing opportunities for open-ended responses during lessons across various subjects. While pupils' academic achievements are commendable, providing more chances for creative expression could further enrich their learning experience.

Pupils' communication skills are exceptional, as they listen attentively and seek clarification when needed. Their reading and writing skills develop rapidly, with younger pupils demonstrating strong progress in literacy. The school promotes a love of reading, and pupils engage in challenging book choices from a well-resourced library. Their writing skills are evident across the curriculum, with SEND pupils receiving tailored support to ensure they achieve in line with their peers.

Numerical competence is also high, with pupils applying their mathematical knowledge effectively in various subjects. They demonstrate confidence in problem-solving and enjoy the challenges presented in mathematics lessons. The use of information and communication technology (ICT) is proficient, with pupils utilizing various applications across the curriculum, supported by recent investments in resources.

Pupils exhibit excellent study skills and a positive work ethic, particularly during practical activities. They collaborate effectively, showing high levels of engagement and enthusiasm in group tasks. The school encourages pupils to set their own targets for improvement, fostering a sense of ownership over their learning.

Crescent School's commitment to service and responsibility is evident in pupils' active participation in charitable initiatives. They raise substantial funds for various causes and take on roles of responsibility within the school community, such as house captains and school council representatives. Their willingness to support younger pupils, particularly as reception buddies, reflects a strong sense of empathy and care.

The school promotes a culture of kindness and respect, with pupils demonstrating high levels of tolerance and understanding towards diversity. They celebrate different cultures and backgrounds, fostering an inclusive environment where all pupils feel valued and accepted. The school’s ethos encourages pupils to reflect on spiritual ideas and engage in moments of silence for reflection, promoting a deeper understanding of their place in the world.

Pupils are well-prepared for the transition to secondary education, with many expressing confidence in their readiness for the next stage of their academic journey. The school’s focus on personal development, alongside academic achievement, ensures that pupils leave Crescent School equipped with the skills and attributes necessary for future success.

In summary, Crescent School provides a high-quality education characterized by excellent academic achievements and personal development. The school meets all regulatory compliance standards and fosters a nurturing environment that supports the holistic growth of its pupils. The commitment to continuous improvement and the well-being of every child is evident in the school's practices and ethos, making it a commendable institution for early education.