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Gloucestershire / Independent preparatory and junior

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Berkhampstead School, Cheltenham

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Berkhampstead School details

Address:
Berkhampstead School
Pittville Circus Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL52 2QA
Telephone:
01242 523263
Fax:
01242 514114
Email:
office.berkhampstead@ btconnect.com
Website:
www.berkhampsteadschool.ik.org
Authority:
Gloucestershire
Gender of entry:
Mixed
Age range:
3-11
Number of students:
252
Affiliation:
IAPS
Last inspection:
October 2004. Read the full inspection report.

Find a school:

ISC accredited

General information

Headteacher: T Owen, appointed in September 1996.

Staff: 22 (men 5, women 17).

Background: Berkhampstead school was founded more than 60 years ago. The school embraces a caring family atmosphere and a Christian ethos. The school holds ?excellent' record of preparing pupils for variety of secondary schools. Facilities include two science laboratories, two gymnasia, art room and two computer rooms; pupils also benefit from access to nearby sports fields and two modern swimming pools. 'Very broad' curriculum is offered, with central core of English, mathematics and science; French, music and physical education taught by specialist teachers to pupils from age of three; in general, however, pupils taught by class teachers with movement towards specialist teaching in upper school. Large number of educational trips organised to support classroom teaching. Sports include football, rugby, cricket, rounders, netball, hockey, swimming, cross-country, tennis, short tennis, athletics and gymnastics. Opportunity for pupils of all ages to participate in musical and dramatic productions, learn musical instrument and join choir, orchestra or band. Children may arrive at school from 8.10; after-school care and clubs take place until 17.30. Selective only for scholarships at seven-plus; test papers, with practical tests form music, art and sport. Friendly, fun, successful.

Approach to discipline: 'Firm, fair, encouraging, positive. The school aims to concentrate on the good behaviour and does this through a system of rewards. Few punishments are needed'.

Uniform: Boys: Dark-blue blazer and pullover with red edges, grey shorts/trousers, grey shirt, school tie, grey socks with red stripes. Girls: Dark-blue blazer and pullover with red edges, dark-blue dress, red-and-white striped shirt. 'The uniform is strictly upheld.'

Special needs: Special educational needs coordinator (SENCO) is responsible for assessing and responding to the specific needs of pupils and has well-equipped room in which to provide support.

Inspection: October 2004: 'Berkhampstead School has a strong, family ethos and provides a secure environment in which pupils develop well, both academically and individually. The very good relationships within the school community and the very positive links with parents and the wider community underpin its success. Hardworking, caring and enthusiastic staff provide pupils with a good education in class that is enhanced by a very wide range of activities. The good standards achieved enable pupils to gain places and awards at selective senior schools. However, areas of assessment and curricular planning require further development.'

Secondary schools: The Cheltenham Ladies' College (5 pupils); Cheltenham College (1 pupils); Dean Close School (4 pupils); St Edward's School, Cheltenham (4 pupils); Kings School Senior (2 pupils).

Boys' age range: 3 to 11.

Girls' age range: 3 to 11.

Before-school care: From 08.10.

After-school care: Until 17.30.

Day pupils: 251.

Average class size (Year 5): 16.

All teachers hold teaching qualifications?: Y.

Teachers with degrees: 80%.

Specialist teachers used: French, PE and music for all.Maths, English and science for age five and six.

Sports offered: Rugby, soccer, cricket, swimming, netball, rounders, hockey, athletics, gymnastics, cross country and tennis.

Percentage receiving instrumental tuition (Year 5): 95%.

Daily act of collective worship?: Y.

Pupils sit SATs?: N.

SATs results provided by QCA-approved body?: N.

Common entrance?: Y.

Percentage admitted to senior schools on reduced fees: 51%.

Major scholarships won: 20 per cent of leavers achieve scholarships every year.

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