Prince George's first day at school: What he can expect from life at Thomas's Battersea
PRINCE George will start his first day at a school that has been ranked outstanding in all areas and where the number one rule is to “be kind”.
Prince George arrives for first day at school with William
Thomas’s Battersea in south west London has won rave reports from school inspectors for creating an environment where youngsters can thrive.
The 532-pupil school has been praised by Ofsted for the “inspiring” leadership of Eton-educated headteacher Ben Thomas.
Its last inspection report, published following a visit in May 2014, saw Thomas’s get the top “outstanding” rank across the board.
Inspectors say the young Prince can expect exemplary teaching in the key subjects of English and maths, with pupils hitting higher levels than expected for their age.
Inspectors wrote: “The quality of teaching in all key stages over time is outstanding.
“Teachers have very high expectations and plan interesting lessons that engage the pupils’ imaginations and enhance their love of learning, drawing on an exceptionally diverse and interesting curriculum.”
Thomas’s is a Christian school which is open to all faiths and offers a brand curriculum that tries to “prepare pupils not only for their senior schools but also for the life that lies beyond them”.
One pupil told the inspectors: “There is so much to do... life is never dull at Thomas’s.”
And the likelihood is George will leave the school with a passion for reading thanks to well-stocked shelves and areas dedicated to books.
Life is never dull at Thomas’s
He is also likely to follow in the generous footsteps of his family with an ethos that creates “givers not takers”, the report states.
Even the school’s food is described as “excellent” with a “very civilised” dining hall.
Proud parents William and Kate are also likely to have been reassured by a description of the school as “entirely safe” for pupils with every care taken to minimise risks.
Alongside the usual subjects, the £5,868 per term school also teaches classes understanding the world, expressive arts and communication.
Inspectors concluded: “At the end of their time at the school pupils are very well prepared for the next stage of their education with all gaining places at selective schools of their choice, including many with scholarships.
“Pupils leave at 11 or 13 years of age having gained enormously in both their academic prowess and in their personal development as a result of the very rich educational experience provided by Thomas’s Battersea.”