Cherwell College Oxford

Cherwell College, located in Oxford, is an independent co-educational boarding and day school that has been operational since 1972. The school caters to students aged 12 to 25, with a particular focus on GCSE and A-level courses. Its main teaching facilities are situated in the heart of Oxford, while the boarding accommodations are located in separate buildings just a short walk away. The college is managed by a limited company, with the principal and vice principal serving as the sole officers.

The school has a history of inspections by Ofsted and remained open during the COVID-19 pandemic for children of key workers, accommodating some boarders on-site while providing remote learning for others. The inspection process during the pandemic was adapted to include both remote and on-site evidence gathering to minimize contact. The Department for Education's guidelines during this period meant that the effectiveness of the school's provisions during the lockdown was not evaluated.

Cherwell College aims to support young adults in achieving their highest qualifications in traditional subjects through a comprehensive academic program designed to facilitate entry into universities with rigorous entry requirements. The student body primarily consists of pupils from professional families in Oxford and its surrounding areas, with a small number of international students. The school provides support for seven pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, most of whom have an education, health, and care plan.

The Independent Schools Inspectorate conducted a compliance-only inspection in October 2021, focusing on the school's adherence to the Independent School Standards and the National Minimum Standards for Boarding Schools. The inspection concluded that Cherwell College meets all the required standards, with no further action needed as a result of the inspection.

In terms of educational quality, the school has demonstrated that its teaching enables pupils to make good progress at both GCSE and A-level over the years 2018 to 2021. The curriculum is well-documented and supported by appropriate plans and schemes of work, ensuring that pupils receive a broad and balanced education. The school also provides relationships and sex education, adhering to statutory guidance and consulting with parents on its policy.

The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted at Cherwell College. The school encourages boarders to express their views, and their opinions are taken into account by staff. The prefect system, if in place, is managed appropriately, contributing to a positive school environment.

Regarding the welfare, health, and safety of pupils, the school has established arrangements that comply with current statutory guidance. Good behavior is promoted, and measures are in place to prevent bullying. Health and safety requirements are met, including fire safety, and first aid provisions are adequately addressed. The school maintains proper supervision of pupils and keeps accurate admission and attendance records, along with a strategic approach to risk assessment. A disability access plan is also in place.

Cherwell College implements a suitable induction process for new boarders and provides appropriate medical and health care, as well as food and drink provisions. The boarding staff are well-trained and deployed effectively, ensuring that boarders have suitable contact with family and friends and access to a range of activities.

The school conducts appropriate checks to ensure the suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors, maintaining a register as required. Visitors to boarding accommodations are supervised, and the school's guardianship arrangements are managed effectively.

The premises and accommodation at Cherwell College meet the required standards, providing suitable toilet and changing facilities, as well as adequate accommodation for pupils' medical and therapy needs. The school maintains its premises to a standard that meets health and safety requirements, ensuring appropriate acoustics, lighting, and water provision. There is also suitable outdoor space for physical education and play, and the boarding accommodations are adequate for the needs of all boarders.

Cherwell College 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 available on the school's website, and a statement of boarding principles and practice is published.

The school has an effective three-stage process for handling parental complaints, which includes informal, formal, and panel hearing stages. 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.

The leadership and management at Cherwell College demonstrate good skills and knowledge, fulfilling their responsibilities effectively to ensure that the standards are consistently met. The proprietor actively promotes the well-being of pupils, and the management of boarding is appropriate, with required policies and records maintained and monitored effectively.

In summary, Cherwell College has shown a commitment to providing a high-quality education and a supportive environment for its pupils. The school meets all regulatory standards, ensuring the welfare, health, and safety of its students while promoting their academic and personal development. The positive findings from the inspection reflect the school's dedication to maintaining high standards in education and boarding provision.