Immanuel Christian School

Immanuel Christian School is an independent co-educational day school located in a former Victorian chapel in Avon, England. Established in 2013, the school serves pupils aged 4 to 16 and is overseen by Immanuel Christian School Limited, which operates as a registered charity. The school comprises two sections: the junior school, which includes an Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) setting for pupils from Reception to Year 6, and the senior school for pupils in Years 7 to 11. The school aims to provide a stable and caring environment where high expectations of personal conduct are fostered, enabling pupils to develop qualities such as integrity, patience, kindness, obedience, honesty, and self-control. The school emphasizes a biblical understanding of the world and seeks to prepare pupils for life in modern society.

The majority of pupils come from professional and business families living within a five-mile radius of the school. The school has identified ten pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), primarily related to dyslexia and autism, and provides additional support for these students. The school has made adjustments to accommodate the needs of these pupils within lessons and offers support outside of class as well. The school does not have any pupils for whom English is an additional language, and it provides extension work for more able pupils.

The regulatory compliance 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. The inspection focused on key areas such as safeguarding, health and safety, the suitability of staff, and the handling of complaints. The school has effective measures in place to safeguard pupils and promote their welfare, including good behavior management and arrangements to prevent bullying. The school maintains appropriate records and has a strategic approach to risk assessment, ensuring that health and safety requirements are met.

The quality of education provided at Immanuel Christian School is good, with pupils making good progress in their academic achievements. The curriculum is well-documented and covers a broad range of subjects, supported by appropriate plans and schemes of work. Teaching enables pupils to make good progress, and the school has a suitable framework for assessing pupils' performance. Pupils receive relationships education in the junior school and relationships and sex education in the senior school, in accordance with statutory guidance.

The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted, facilitating their growth as responsible and tolerant citizens. The school fosters a strong sense of community and encourages pupils to reflect on their values and beliefs. Pupils demonstrate a high level of moral understanding and are respectful towards one another, contributing to a positive school environment.

In terms of welfare, health, and safety, the school has made arrangements to safeguard pupils and promote their well-being. The school provides adequate facilities for first aid and ensures that pupils are properly supervised. The school has a disability access plan in place and maintains appropriate records of attendance and admissions.

The suitability of staff is ensured through appropriate checks, and the school keeps a register as required. The premises are well-maintained, providing suitable facilities for pupils' medical and therapy needs, as well as adequate outdoor space for physical education and play.

The school publishes a range of information for parents, including details about the curriculum, admission arrangements, and the complaints procedure. Complaints are handled effectively through a three-stage process, ensuring that parents have a clear understanding of how their concerns will be addressed.

The leadership and management of the school demonstrate good skills and knowledge, fulfilling their responsibilities effectively. The proprietor ensures that the standards are consistently met and actively promotes the well-being of pupils.

The educational quality inspection highlighted that the quality of pupils' academic achievements is good, with pupils demonstrating strong knowledge, skills, and understanding. They display positive attitudes towards learning and make good progress relative to their peers. However, some senior pupils may not always receive sufficient challenge to take the initiative in their learning.

Pupils' personal development is also good, with a strong sense of spirituality and moral understanding. They reflect deeply on non-material aspects of life and develop a strong sense of belonging and responsibility towards one another. The school encourages pupils to appreciate the role of faith in their lives, and they engage in various charitable activities, contributing positively to the wider community.

Overall, Immanuel Christian School provides a nurturing environment that supports the academic and personal development of its pupils. The school is committed to fostering a strong partnership with parents and encourages their involvement in their children's education. The school's ethos promotes respect, responsibility, and kindness, creating a positive atmosphere for learning and growth. The school has effective plans in place to accommodate an increase in pupil numbers, ensuring that it can continue to provide a high-quality education for all its students.