Why choose Steephill School?

Steephill School is a small, independent primary school where children are encouraged to achieve their very best academically while developing the confidence, character and resilience needed for life beyond the classroom.

Our pupils benefit from small class sizes, exceptional pastoral care, a broad and ambitious curriculum, extensive outdoor learning opportunities and a genuine sense of community. We believe there should be no ceiling on learning, and every child is encouraged to reach their full potential.

What makes Steephill School different from other schools?

Steephill offers a unique blend of academic ambition and nurturing support.

We know every child as an individual and provide opportunities that allow them to excel academically, socially, creatively and emotionally. Our pupils enjoy specialist teaching, Forest School, enrichment opportunities, leadership experiences and a curriculum designed to develop curious, knowledgeable and compassionate young people.

Our aim is simple: to provide the education every child deserves and inspire a lifelong love of learning.

What are Steephill School's values?

Our school values are at the heart of everything we do:

KIND -Kindness

K – Knowledge
I – Inclusivity
N – Nurture
D – Determination

These values shape our culture, relationships and curriculum. They help children develop into confident, respectful and responsible members of society.

What curriculum does Steephill School follow?

Steephill School delivers a broad, balanced and ambitious curriculum designed to inspire a love of learning and provide strong academic foundations.

We predominantly use the CUSP Curriculum framework, which is knowledge-rich, carefully sequenced and designed to develop deep understanding across all subjects.

Alongside CUSP, we utilise carefully selected resources including the PSHE Association Programme of Study, PiXL resources for assessment and targeted interventions and specialist subject materials to ensure pupils receive a high-quality educational experience.

Our curriculum encourages children to think critically, ask questions and make meaningful connections across subjects.

What are academic standards like at Steephill School?

Academic excellence is a key strength of Steephill School.

Our ambitious curriculum, small class sizes and personalised approach enable children to make excellent progress and achieve strong outcomes.

We have high expectations for every pupil and firmly believe there should be no ceiling on learning. Children are challenged, supported and encouraged to develop confidence in their abilities while nurturing a genuine love of learning.

How does Steephill School challenge high-achieving pupils?

We believe every child deserves to be stretched and inspired.

Learning at Steephill is designed to promote depth of understanding rather than simply moving through content more quickly. Through high-quality questioning, enrichment opportunities, independent projects and leadership roles, pupils are encouraged to think deeply and develop intellectual curiosity.

Our philosophy is that learning should never have a ceiling.

How does Steephill School support children's wellbeing?

Pastoral care is one of the defining features of Steephill School.

Children learn best when they feel safe, valued and understood. Our nurturing environment ensures that every child is known as an individual and supported to develop confidence, resilience and emotional wellbeing.

Strong relationships between staff, pupils and families create a warm, welcoming atmosphere where children can thrive.

What is SMSC education and why is it important?

Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural (SMSC) development is woven throughout school life at Steephill.

We believe education extends beyond academic achievement. Through assemblies, curriculum experiences, enrichment activities, charitable work and daily interactions, children develop empathy, respect, integrity and an understanding of the wider world.

SMSC education helps prepare pupils to become thoughtful, responsible and active citizens.

How does Steephill School promote British Values?

British Values are embedded throughout our curriculum and school culture.

Children learn about:

• Democracy
• Individual liberty
• The rule of law
• Mutual respect
• Tolerance of different faiths and beliefs

Through pupil leadership opportunities, School Council, discussions, community engagement and curriculum learning, children gain a strong understanding of their role within modern British society.

Does Steephill School teach global citizenship?

Yes.

Our curriculum includes meaningful links to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), helping pupils understand their responsibilities as global citizens.

Children explore themes such as environmental sustainability, equality, wellbeing, responsible consumption and climate action through classroom learning, outdoor education and enrichment opportunities.

We aim to develop young people who are prepared to make a positive contribution to both their local community and the wider world.

What outdoor learning opportunities are available?

Outdoor learning is one of the distinctive features of Steephill School.

Our extensive outdoor environment allows us to offer an exceptional outdoor curriculum that enhances learning across many subjects.

Children regularly learn beyond the classroom, developing independence, resilience, teamwork, problem-solving skills and confidence through meaningful real-world experiences.

Does every child participate in Forest School?

Yes.

Forest School is a valued part of life at Steephill and every child has the opportunity to participate.

Through Forest School sessions, children develop practical skills, creativity, resilience, risk awareness and environmental understanding while building confidence and independence.

The benefits extend far beyond outdoor education, supporting wellbeing, communication and personal development.

Why is outdoor learning important?

Research consistently shows that outdoor learning supports children's physical health, mental wellbeing, engagement and academic development.

At Steephill, outdoor education is not an occasional activity but an integral part of our curriculum. It helps children develop confidence, curiosity and a deeper understanding of the world around them.

How does Steephill School prepare children for secondary school?

Preparation for secondary school begins from the moment children join Steephill.

Alongside strong academic foundations, pupils develop independence, resilience, leadership skills, organisation and confidence.

By the time they leave Year 6, our pupils are well-prepared academically, socially and emotionally for the next stage of their educational journey.

What opportunities are available beyond the classroom?

We believe education should be rich, memorable and inspiring.

Children benefit from a range of enrichment opportunities including:

• Forest School
• Educational visits
• Gardening Club
• Sports activities
• Music and performance opportunities
• Leadership roles
• Community projects
• Eco initiatives
• Theme and enrichment days

These experiences help children discover new interests and develop confidence in their abilities.

How does Steephill School support children with additional needs?

Every child is unique and deserves to succeed.

We work closely with families and specialists where appropriate to ensure children receive the support, challenge and encouragement they need.

Our small-school environment allows staff to know pupils exceptionally well and respond effectively to individual needs.

What are class sizes like?

One of the key benefits of Steephill School is our small class sizes.

Smaller classes allow teachers to provide personalised support, develop strong relationships with pupils and ensure every child is actively engaged in learning.

Children benefit from greater opportunities to contribute, ask questions and receive individual feedback.

What role do parents play in school life?

We see education as a partnership between school and home.

Strong communication and positive relationships with families help children achieve their best. Parents are encouraged to engage with school events, support learning at home and become active members of our school community.

Together, we create the best possible experience for every child.

What kind of community can families expect at Steephill?

Steephill School is known for its warm, welcoming and family-centred atmosphere.

Families often comment on the strong sense of belonging, the supportive relationships between staff and parents and the genuine care shown to every child.

Our community reflects our values of Kindness, Knowledge, Inclusivity, Nurture and Determination.

How can I arrange a visit to Steephill School?

The best way to understand what makes Steephill special is to visit us.

We warmly welcome prospective families to tour the school, meet staff and pupils and experience our learning environment first-hand.

Please contact the school office to arrange a personalised visit.