General Information
The Richard Pate School is an independent co-educational preparatory school for girls and boys aged 3-11.
Pupils
There are approximately 290 pupils at the school.
Admission
Pupils can be admitted at any age, subject to the availability of places but most enter aged 3 or 7. The decision on whether or not to accept an external pupil into the Preparatory Department is taken after a preliminary visit.
External pupils wanting the Junior Department are required to take selective tests in March, at which time a limited number of 7+ scholarships may be awarded (full details from the School Administrator). Before any child can be considered for entry to the school, both parents must complete an application form and return it to the Headmaster together with the current registration and assessment fee. All prospective parents must accept that permission will not be granted for pupils to be ‘on holiday’ during term time.
Uniform
The main items must be obtained from the School Outfitters and children are expected to maintain a smart appearance at all times. Parents operate a second-hand uniform shop which opens monthly.
Destination of Pupils
Pupils leave at age 11 and ‘move on’ to a variety of schools, both state and independent. Many pupils wish to progress to grammar schools in Cheltenham or Gloucester, others favour local independent schools; occasionally, a child will progress to a boarding environment or join a comprehensive school. Children are thoroughly prepared, both academically and socially, for the secondary school ultimately chosen for them.
Contact with Parents
Educating the young must be a team effort and we do value our contact with parents. The Teachers, the Heads of Department, the Deputies and Headmaster are more than willing to discuss any concerns. Each term, parents meet their child’s class-teacher. Parents are sent two main newsletters per term and a calendar of events. There is an active PTA which organizes numerous activities in support of the school.