Prep School wins NACE Challenge Award
Headington Rye Oxford Prep School has become the first school in Oxford, and only independent school in the county, to receive the prestigious National Association for Able Children (NACE) Challenge Award.
The award was presented following a rigorous assessment where representatives from the charity observed lessons, looked at children’s work and spoke to both pupils and staff. The application was led by the School’s Stretch and Challenge Co-ordinator, Mrs Caroline Winstone.
Head of Prep Mrs Jane Crouch said: “This award is a real coup that validates our commitment to high challenge, deep thinking, and support for all learners, especially the more able.”
The School is the 498th to be accredited with the award, which is given in recognition of school-wide commitment to high-quality provision for more able learners in the context of challenge for all.
NACE CEO Rob Lightfoot said: “Headington Rye Oxford Prep School has worked successfully to attain the NACE Challenge Award. It has shown itself to be committed to developing an environment in which all learners are both challenged and supported to be the best they can be.”
In their report, the NACE assessor praised the leadership, specialist teaching and learning strategies employed, as well as remarking on the breadth of rich opportunities on offer to pupils.
They said: “Leadership across the school is strategic, values-driven and focused on sustainable impact, with a clear and ambitious vision to challenge all pupils. This ethos is embedded in practice, with senior leaders and governors fostering high expectations and promoting intellectual curiosity. Staff describe challenge as ‘part of the culture’ and ‘embedded in everything we do’
“‘Stretch and challenge’ clubs, ‘big question’ projects, and visible learning strategies like ‘wonder walls’ promote creativity, deep thinking and critical inquiry. Specialist teaching and enrichment ensure high standards and deep engagement across the curriculum. The absence of a ‘glass ceiling’ philosophy means every child is supported to excel – regardless of background or need.
“Classrooms are characterised by high engagement, curiosity, and intellectual risk-taking. Strong teacher-pupil relationships underpin positive learning climates.”
Headington Rye Oxford Prep School will now be part of the international community of Challenge Award-accredited schools which have demonstrated a sustained and effective commitment to meeting the needs of more able learners, and an interest in sharing expertise for the wider benefit of the education community.
The School is now setting its sights on acquiring Challenge Ambassador School status and seeking accreditation for the senior school.
