The Cedars School

The Cedars School, an independent Catholic day school for male pupils, was established in 2013 and is governed by the PACT Educational Trust Ltd. The school serves students aged 11 to 18 and has recently relocated to larger premises in Upper Norwood, London. The new site is shared with another school, The Laurels, and includes a sports hall for joint use. The school aims to partner with parents to help each pupil develop moral, intellectual, and social virtues within a framework of Catholic principles. The student body is diverse, with pupils coming from various religious backgrounds, and the school has identified a number of students with special educational needs and disabilities.

The recent focused compliance and educational quality inspection conducted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate confirmed that The Cedars School meets the required standards set out in the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014. The inspection took into account the challenges faced by schools during the COVID-19 pandemic and assessed the school's ability to provide a safe and supportive environment for its pupils.

The quality of education provided at The Cedars School is commendable. The school’s curriculum is well-documented and supported by appropriate plans and schemes of work, ensuring that pupils make good progress. The teaching methods employed are effective, and the school has a suitable framework for assessing pupil performance. The school provides relationships and sex education in accordance with statutory guidance, and the standards related to the quality of education are met.

In terms of spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development, the school actively promotes principles and values that help pupils become responsible and tolerant citizens. The arrangements for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils are robust, with effective measures in place to prevent bullying and ensure health and safety. The school maintains proper supervision of pupils and has a strategic approach to risk assessment.

The inspection also evaluated the suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors, confirming that appropriate checks are made to ensure their suitability to work with pupils. The premises and accommodation are well-maintained, providing suitable facilities for pupils' medical and therapy needs, as well as adequate outdoor space for physical education.

The school publishes a range of information for parents and stakeholders, including details about its ethos, curriculum, and arrangements for admission and behaviour. Complaints are handled effectively through a structured process, and the leadership and management of the school demonstrate good skills and knowledge, ensuring that standards are consistently met.

The educational quality inspection highlighted the good academic achievements of pupils, noting their strong communication skills and ability to express themselves clearly. Pupils make strong progress from their varied starting points, demonstrating excellent attitudes towards learning and actively engaging in collaborative tasks. The school fosters a culture of self-assessment, allowing pupils to monitor their own progress effectively.

Pupils' personal development is rated as excellent, with a strong sense of community and mutual support evident among them. They develop high levels of self-awareness and confidence, and the school’s Catholic values are respected by all pupils, regardless of their personal beliefs. The school encourages pupils to take responsibility for their decisions and actions, fostering a strong moral compass.

The Cedars School also promotes a healthy and balanced lifestyle, with a focus on well-being through its tutorial programme. Pupils are encouraged to participate in sporting activities, and they demonstrate a clear understanding of the importance of mental health and well-being. The school provides opportunities for pupils to engage in community service, although there is room for improvement in encouraging more pupils to initiate such activities.

Overall, the inspection findings indicate that The Cedars School provides a high-quality education that supports the academic and personal development of its pupils. The school is well-equipped to handle an increase in pupil numbers, with sufficient staff and resources to maintain its standards. The recommendation to approve the school's proposal to increase its maximum capacity from 260 to 350 pupils reflects confidence in its ability to continue delivering quality education and support to its growing student body.