Thomas's Fulham

Thomas’s Fulham School is an independent co-educational day school located in Fulham, Southwest London. Established in September 2005, the school is part of Thomas’s London Day Schools, an unlimited company. The school caters to children aged 4 to 11 and has a total enrollment of 425 pupils, including 65 in Reception and 360 in the Junior classes. The last inspection by Ofsted occurred in March 2018, and the school is committed to providing an outstanding education through a holistic approach that prepares pupils for their future lives and educational steps. The core value of kindness is central to the school’s ethos and underpins all aspects of school life.

The school serves a diverse pupil population, with no students holding an education, health, and care plan. However, 63 pupils have been identified as having mild to moderate special educational needs and/or disabilities, including sensory processing difficulties, ADHD, and ASD. Among these, 41 receive additional specialist support. Additionally, 174 pupils speak English as an additional language, with four receiving specialized help, while others are supported by their classroom teachers. The school ensures that more able pupils are challenged through appropriately tailored lesson content and activities.

The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) conducted a compliance-only inspection in January 2023, focusing on the school’s adherence to the Independent School Standards and the Early Years Foundation Stage statutory framework. The inspection confirmed that the school meets all applicable standards, with no further action required. The report highlights the quality of education provided, the spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils, and the welfare, health, and safety measures in place.

The school’s educational framework supports good progress among pupils, with documented curriculum plans that cover the required breadth of material. Effective behavior management and suitable resources are integral to the teaching approach. The school also provides relationships education, having consulted parents and published a written policy in line with statutory guidance. The standards related to the quality of education are met, ensuring that pupils receive a well-rounded educational experience.

In terms of spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development, the school actively promotes principles and values that foster responsible citizenship among pupils. This commitment to personal development aligns with the standards set forth in the inspection framework. The school has established arrangements to safeguard and promote the welfare of pupils, adhering to current statutory guidance. Good behavior is encouraged, and measures are in place to prevent bullying. Health and safety requirements are met, including fire safety provisions, and adequate first aid arrangements are established. The school maintains proper supervision of pupils and keeps accurate admission and attendance records, demonstrating a strategic approach to risk assessment. A disability access plan is also in place, ensuring inclusivity for all pupils.

The school conducts appropriate checks to ensure the suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors, maintaining a register as required. This compliance with standards regarding the suitability of individuals in contact with pupils is a critical aspect of the school’s operational integrity. The premises are well-maintained, providing suitable toilet and changing facilities, as well as appropriate accommodation for pupils’ medical and therapy needs. The school ensures that the environment meets health and safety standards, with adequate acoustics, lighting, and water provision. Outdoor spaces are available for physical education and play, contributing to a holistic educational experience.

The school publishes a range of information for parents, inspectors, and the Department for Education, including details about the proprietor, the school’s ethos, curriculum, and arrangements for admission, behavior, and exclusions. The safeguarding policy is accessible on the school’s website, ensuring transparency and communication with stakeholders. The school also provides information on academic performance, inspection reports, and individual pupil progress, fostering a collaborative relationship with parents.

Complaints from parents are handled effectively through a structured three-stage process, which includes informal discussions, formal complaints, and a hearing before an independent panel. Each stage has clear timelines, and the panel can make findings and recommendations communicated to the complainant. Records of complaints and actions taken are maintained appropriately, ensuring accountability and responsiveness to parental concerns.

The leadership and management of the school demonstrate strong skills and knowledge, fulfilling their responsibilities effectively to ensure that all standards are consistently met. The proprietor actively promotes the well-being of pupils, contributing to a positive school environment. The overall findings of the inspection indicate that Thomas’s Fulham School successfully meets the regulatory requirements and provides a high-quality educational experience for its pupils. The commitment to kindness, inclusivity, and holistic development is evident throughout the school’s operations, making it a nurturing and supportive environment for all students.