Community

At The Acorn School we pride ourselves on the strength of our community, and particularly the close involvement of parents in the life of the school. We expect a high level of commitment from all students and parents to our shared ethos and approach. The entire school meets for assembly on Mondays, and any parent or friend of the school is welcome to attend. Usually, about thirty parents attend regularly.

We have recently run a survey of the school’s parents and here are some of the things they said about the school:

Why did you come to the school?

‘I had friends with children in the school and I was very impressed upon meeting them after having known them when they were little, and now seeing their incredible confidence, ability and maturity. I was also very impressed by the evident love and care that I saw on our initial visit and week’s trial.’

‘We wanted a school with a clear ethos. Also, we wanted a small school where there was individual care for each child. We just loved the atmosphere of the school when we visited.’

What are the strengths of the school?

‘The wholesome atmosphere and ethos; blend of indoor/outdoor activity; loyalty of pupils to school and teachers (this really means that school and teachers have earned this); high standards expected of pupils (and their response); how the teachers stand as exemplars of morality, authority, humanity for the pupils’

‘The education of the child as a whole, not as an exam passing machine.’

‘Strong leadership and moral guidance. Preservation of childhood. Small classes. Lots of outdoor adventures and challenges. Lots of good male role models (a rare thing in schools). Teachers who are very committed and loving. Very little homework and no testing. The courage to be different from the mainstream. Encourages a love of learning and the ability to solve problems, rather than remember facts and ‘teaching to the test’.’

‘The teachers and parents all seem to share common interests and dedication to the children and each other. There is a wonderfully nurturing feeling which seems to give the children confidence and security.’