HenleyinArden Montessori Primary School

The Memorial Hall, HenleyinArden, B95 5JP

Pupils

Ages

4 - 11

Gender

Co-educational

Type

Primary

Head Teacher

Mrs Helen Everley

Boarding / Day

Day

Fees

£2,436

ISC Associations

ISA

Religion

All Faiths

Bursaries

Check school website

Bookmark this school Compare Schools Discuss this school Return to Search

About HenleyinArden Montessori Primary School

HenleyinArden Montessori Primary School, located in the picturesque town of Henley-in-Arden, offers a unique educational experience for children aged four to eleven. This co-educational day school embraces an all-faiths approach, welcoming pupils from diverse backgrounds and fostering an inclusive environment. The school’s commitment to the Montessori method is evident in its emphasis on child-centred learning, encouraging independence, creativity, and a love for learning.

The Montessori philosophy, which underpins the school’s curriculum, focuses on nurturing each child’s natural curiosity and desire to learn. This approach is particularly beneficial in the primary years, as it allows children to explore subjects at their own pace, fostering a deep understanding and retention of knowledge. The school provides a broad curriculum that includes core subjects such as English, Mathematics, and Science, alongside Art, Music, and Physical Education. This diverse range of subjects ensures that pupils receive a well-rounded education, catering for various interests and talents.

One of the standout features of the school is its small class sizes, which allow for personalised attention and tailored support for each pupil. Teachers are able to develop strong relationships with their students, understanding their individual needs and learning styles. This personalised approach is further supported by the school’s Head of Learning Support, who works closely with teachers and parents to ensure that all pupils, including those with additional needs, receive the necessary support to thrive academically and socially.

The school’s commitment to fostering a supportive and nurturing environment extends beyond the classroom. Pupils are encouraged to participate in a range of extra-curricular activities, which play a crucial role in their personal development. These activities provide opportunities for pupils to explore new interests, develop new skills, and build friendships. The school’s emphasis on wellbeing is evident in its pastoral care system, which ensures that each child feels valued and supported throughout their time at the school.

The school’s facilities, while modest, are well-maintained and provide a safe and stimulating environment for learning. Classrooms are equipped with resources that support the Montessori method, allowing children to engage in hands-on learning experiences. Outdoor spaces are utilised for both play and learning, providing pupils with opportunities to explore the natural world and develop a sense of environmental responsibility.

Parents of pupils at the school often praise the strong sense of community and the dedication of the teaching staff. The school’s open-door policy encourages open communication between parents and teachers, fostering a collaborative approach to education. This partnership is crucial in supporting each child’s learning journey and ensuring that they reach their full potential.

In summary, HenleyinArden Montessori Primary School offers a distinctive educational experience that combines the principles of the Montessori method with a commitment to inclusivity and personal development. The school’s focus on child-centred learning, small class sizes, and a supportive community creates an environment where children can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. For parents seeking a nurturing and inclusive primary education for their children, this school presents a compelling option.

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.

Bookmark this school Compare Schools Discuss this school Return to Search

ISI Review

Henley-in-Arden Montessori Primary School is an independent co-educational institution catering for children aged between four and eleven years. Established in 2007, the school operates on a site shared with Merrydays Montessori Nursery, which is inspected separately. The school was founded to provide full-time education for a maximum of 20 pupils, and it is owned by a proprietor who has been involved in Montessori education since 1997. The principal, Mrs. Helen Everley, has been leading the school since 2000. The educational approach is rooted in the Montessori philosophy, with pupils taught as one class, allowing for a personalized learning experience.

The school has a total of 23 pupils enrolled, with six in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and 17 in the junior classes. The previous inspection by Ofsted took place in January 2018. 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 during the closure. The inspection process for this report was adapted to include both remote and on-site evidence gathering to minimize contact within the school environment.

The school aims to implement the Montessori philosophy and curriculum effectively, promoting a holistic approach to education. It seeks to create a nurturing environment where children feel safe, secure, and confident, enabling them to learn at their own pace. The school emphasizes the importance of socialization, respect, and harmonious living within the school community, fostering positive relationships among peers and adults.

Pupils at Henley-in-Arden Montessori come from diverse cultural backgrounds and professional families within a 20-mile radius of the school. The school does not utilize standardized tests for assessing ability, and no pupils have been identified as having special educational needs or disabilities. Four pupils are supported in their learning as English is an additional language for them.

The inspection conducted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) confirmed that the school meets the standards set out in the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014 and the relevant requirements of the Early Years Foundation Stage statutory framework. The inspection focused on compliance with these standards, which represent minimum requirements for educational institutions.

The quality of education provided at the school is deemed good, with teaching enabling pupils to make significant progress. The curriculum is well-documented and supported by appropriate plans and schemes of work, covering a broad range of subjects. The school has established a suitable framework for assessing pupils' performance, and effective behavior management strategies are in place. Relationships education is also provided in the junior school, with a written policy developed in consultation with parents.

The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted, helping them become responsible and tolerant citizens. The school fosters principles and values that support personal development, ensuring that pupils are well-prepared for their roles in society.

In terms of welfare, health, and safety, the school has established arrangements to safeguard and promote the well-being of pupils. Good behavior is encouraged, and measures are in place to prevent bullying. The school meets health and safety requirements, including fire safety, and provides first aid provisions. Proper supervision of pupils is maintained, and admission and attendance registers are kept as required. A disability access plan is also in place, ensuring that the school is accessible to all pupils.

The suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors is rigorously checked, with a register maintained as required. The school ensures that all individuals in contact with pupils are suitable for their roles, contributing to a safe learning environment.

The premises and accommodation at the school are well-maintained, providing suitable facilities for pupils' needs. Adequate toilet and changing facilities are available, along with appropriate accommodations for medical and therapy needs. The school ensures that the premises meet health and safety standards, with suitable outdoor spaces provided for physical education and play.

A range of information is published and made available to parents, including details about the school's ethos, curriculum, and arrangements for admission, behavior, and health and safety. The safeguarding policy is accessible on the school's website, and parents receive annual reports on their child's progress.

The school has established an effective complaints handling process, which includes informal, formal, and panel stages. Each stage has clear time scales, and records of complaints and actions taken are maintained appropriately.

Leadership and management at Henley-in-Arden Montessori Primary School demonstrate good skills and knowledge, ensuring that the standards are consistently met. The proprietor actively promotes the well-being of pupils, contributing to a positive school environment.

Overall, the inspection concluded that Henley-in-Arden Montessori Primary School meets all the required standards, with no further action needed as a result of this inspection. The school provides a nurturing and effective educational experience for its pupils, adhering to the principles of the Montessori philosophy while ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

Read full review