Exploring Ipswich School: See Reviews, Rankings, Fees, And More
Ready to dive into the world of Ipswich School? Get set for an exciting ride as we uncover all the awesome things about this top-notch institution. From student reviews to school rankings and everything in between, let’s explore what makes Ipswich School the top academic school in Suffolk!
Table of Contents
Key Features of Ipswich School
- Boarding: Yes
- Local authority: Suffolk
- Pupils: 800
- Age: 3-18
- Religion: Multi-faith
- Fees: Day £12,705 – £19,704; Boarding £36,639 – £40,365 pa
- Open days: September
- Ranking: 91
Ipswich School Results
GCSE Results (2023): 63% achieved grades 9-7.
A Level Results (2023): 50% attained grades A*/A.
GCSE Results (2019 – Pre-pandemic): 64% secured grades 9-7.
A Level Results (2019 – Pre-pandemic): 46% earned grades A*/A.
Boarding Experience in Ipswich School
Only around 10% of Ipswich students are boarders, forming a close-knit community here. Westwood House stands as the main boarding hub for years 9-13, offering a charming Victorian villa setting just a stone’s throw from the school campus. Here, students find solace in their own comfortable haven at the end of each day, with older pupils enjoying the luxury of private rooms, many with hand basins for added convenience.
At Westwood House, culinary delights await, courtesy of the dedicated chef and kitchen team. With flexibility at its core, students relish in the freedom to enjoy snacks throughout the day, while hearty meals are served in the evening, perfect for fostering bonds over shared experiences. The spacious sitting room provides the ideal backdrop for relaxation and socialisation, complemented by a well-equipped kitchen featuring toasters and kettles for on-the-go treats.
Each pupil is also greeted with brand new duvets and pillows upon arrival, a personal touch that embodies the school’s commitment to student comfort and well-being. The modern amenities, including newly renovated showers and toilets, ensure that every aspect of boarding life is met with convenience and care.
For senior students residing in Anglesea Heights, a converted former hospital complex, the allure of ensuite rooms and a vibrant common area beckons. With main meals shared at Westwood House, students at Anglesea Heights enjoy a slightly more adult atmosphere while still benefiting from the reassuring presence of dedicated house staff.
Beyond the comforts of campus life, weekend excursions to local attractions and further afield provide students with enriching experiences and cherished memories. With house staff as constant companions, students embark on a journey of growth, friendship, and discovery in an environment that feels like family.
On a side note, there is a strict mobile phone policy at Ipswich. Students are allowed to use their phones before and after classes, but they need to hand the phones in before bedtime.
Extracurricular Activities in Ipswich School
Despite excelling academically, Ipswich also demonstrates prowess in various other domains including music, arts, drama, sports, and more.
Music: At the heart of our musical community lies the Britten Faculty of Music, boasting a recital hall and practice rooms where students can hone their talents. From choir performances to orchestras and jazz bands, there are endless opportunities to showcase musical prowess. Music scholars benefit from exclusive masterclasses, enriching their skills under expert guidance.
Drama and Art: For budding thespians and artists, drama and art are integral parts of school life. From timetabled drama lessons to annual theatrical productions in the school’s own theatre, students have the chance to explore their creative flair on stage. Meanwhile, timetabled art classes, including sculpting, printing, and photography, foster artistic expression from prep through to year 8. GCSE and A level art students showcase their work in exhibitions, including the prestigious River Church display.
Thursday Afternoons (No Classes): Thursday afternoons are dedicated to a diverse range of activities for years 9-13. From volunteering opportunities in local primary schools to drama performances in care homes and eco projects, students engage in service-oriented pursuits that enrich their community and personal development. The Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme offers adventurous expeditions, while “The Edge” programme equips sixth formers with essential life skills for success beyond school.
Sport: For sports enthusiasts, Ipswich School offers a dynamic sporting environment. Hockey, rugby, and cricket are the mainstays of team sports, with professional coaching ensuring high standards and inclusivity. Girls excel in hockey, netball, and cricket, boasting national championship titles. With splendid grounds and sports facilities, including a large gym and fives court, students can pursue their sporting passions to a high standard. Club activities such as riding, golf, and skiing offer additional avenues for physical activity and skill development.
Admissions Process: Entering Ipswich School
Prep School Entry:
- Main Entry Points: Reception, Year 3, and Year 5.
- Additional Entry: Places available in all year groups if space permits.
- Assessment Day: Potential pupils spend a day in school completing tasks to assess potential, including literacy, numeracy, and non-verbal reasoning.
- References: References from the child’s current school will be requested.
- Early Years: Children as young as three months can join the Lodge day nursery, including the pre-school class within lower prep.
Senior School Entry (Year 7):
- Entrance Test: All pupils, including those from Ipswich Prep, take the entrance test in November.
- Test Components: Includes non-verbal reasoning, maths, and English papers, along with a confidential reference.
- Available Places: 120 places are available for Year 7 entry.
Year 9 Entry:
- Entrance Options: Entrance exam in February or Common Entrance.
- Admissions: Spaces are reserved for Year 9 entry, with many pupils coming from local preps like Orwell Park and Holmwood House School.
Sixth Form Entry:
- GCSE Grades: Entry dependent on GCSE results.
- Interview: An interview with the headmaster is required.
- School Reference: A school reference is needed.
- Subject Grades: Grade 7s in subjects to be studied at A level (Grade 8s for biology, chemistry, physics, maths, or computer science), with at least six Grade 6s overall.
- BTEC Option: For studying a BTEC in sport and exercise science plus one A level, six Grade 5s and a Grade 7 in the relevant subject for A level are required.
SEN Support in Ipswich
The academic team at Ipswich places a high priority to cater to students with special educational needs. In fact, the head of learning support is a Dyslexia specialist. Here are some of the needs they are capable of handling:
- Autistic Spectrum Disorder
- Aspergers
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders
- Dyscalculia
- Dysgraphia
- Dyslexia
- Dyspraxia
- Mental health
Ipswich School Testimonials and Reviews
Fun and inclusive to all
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Frequently Asked Questions
Boarding schools in the UK are educational institutions where students reside on campus, away from their homes. These schools offer full-time boarding options, where students live and study during term time, typically returning home during holidays.
Boarding schools offer a nurturing and immersive educational experience. Benefits include a structured environment for academics, access to a wide range of extracurricular activities, the development of independence and life skills, and a close-knit community that fosters lifelong friendships.
No, boarding schools in the UK welcome students from all over the world. Many schools have a diverse student body with students from various countries.
Boarding schools prioritise the safety and well-being of their students. They have trained staff, supervision protocols, health services, and designated staff members to address students’ emotional and social needs.
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