Prior’s Field pupils are “extremely well educated” is the conclusion of independent school inspectors who spent four days at the school for girls, this March. The Godalming based, 11-18, day and boarding school received the highest accolade, ‘excellent’, in all nine areas of inspection – an exemplary standard, similarly achieved in its previous inspection five years ago.
The report, which is the first to combine an assessment of Prior’s Field’s boarding provision with an overall inspection of the school, paints a picture of teachers who are highly knowledgeable and passionate about their subjects, girls who are engaged and attentive in class, a broad and challenging curriculum, extensive extra-curricular activities, strongly effective leadership and excellent relationships. In terms of results, inspectors noted, “The proportions of pupils gaining the highest grades at both GCSE and A Level are well above national averages and have risen in recent years.”
Head, Mrs Tracy Kirnig, having joined Prior’s Field in September 2015, had been in post just six months when the inspectors arrived.
She says: ‘We were delighted to welcome our visiting inspectors to Prior’s Field. In my first two terms, I have been daily impressed by extraordinary quality – of teaching, learning and all-round care for girls. It was exciting to be able to share this with inspectors. We particularly liked their comment that “high expectations, encouragement and praise characterise the school’s approach”– factors that underpin all our pupils’ success, whatever their abilities and talents.’
From its foundation in 1902, boarding has been at the heart of Prior’s Field. Describing the quality of boarding care as “excellent”, inspectors found girls for whom Prior’s Field is their second home to be “articulate, engaging and courteous”.
Head of Boarding, Mrs Emma Picken, comments: ‘Our boarders were delighted to welcome inspectors to their school and home, and threw themselves into the experience. We were especially pleased that the report highlights the “atmosphere of trust, tolerance and friendship in the boarding houses” – testament to the commitment of our girls and boarding staff to each other’.
Open morning is Saturday 1 October, 10am to 1pm. Contact the admissions team on 01483 813402 or admissions@priorsfieldschool.com for information and to book a place.