Question 1

Where is Bredon School located?

Answer

We are situated on the Gloucestershire and Worcestershire borders, just 15 minutes from the M5. The airports of Bristol and Birmingham are approximately one hour away, with London being a two hour drive.

Question 2

How many children are there at Bredon?

Answer

We currently have 220 pupils at Bredon.

Question 3

How many pupils are there in a class?

Answer

Small class sizes are a key to Bredon’s supportive learning environment. Typically class sizes will be 8 – 12 pupils. Classes can be smaller in the Junior School and again in Sixth Form as pupils focus their subjects.

Question 4

When can pupils join Bredon?

Answer

We are a non-selective school and welcome applications for entry into Bredon at all times throughout the year. It is possible to join mid-term and all places offered are subject to the completion of a successful taster week (3 days for day pupils, 5 nights for boarders).

Question 5

How many pupils are there at Bredon with a unique learning profile?

Answer

Approximately 80% of children at Bredon have dyslexia or an associated learning need. Many other children come to Bredon because of our small class sizes, supportive teaching, nurturing environment and emphasis on outdoor learning.

Question 6

How many teachers are specifically trained to work with SpLD pupils?

Answer

All teaching staff hold a SpLD qualification or are currently studying for a qualification. We have a whole school approach to dyslexia and all of our teachers can demonstrate the ability to meet the needs of dyslexic pupils within their classes.

Question 7

How is specialist teaching delivered: in class, by withdrawal, individually or in a small group?

Answer

All of the above. As our class sizes are very small, individual learning needs are usually addressed in the classroom. This means that withdrawal is not the norm apart from for Speech and Language Therapy and Occupational Therapy which takes place during the school day. Every child is unique and the most appropriate provision will always be recommended and provided.

Question 8

How is the school day structured?

Answer

The school day starts at 8:30am every day. There are four teaching periods in the morning and three after lunch. School finishes at 4:30pm Monday – Thursday and 3:15pm on a Friday.

Question 9

Is there a Saturday school?

Answer

We do not have lessons on a Saturday. Our boarders can take part in a range of fun and cultural activities and sports at weekends.

Question 10

What sports and activities do you offer?

Answer

We offer all a full sports programme, with activities including rugby, football, netball, hockey and cricket to name but a few. Kayaking, climbing and clay pigeon shooting are particular strengths of the School and we place a huge emphasis on outdoor activities and learning. Every child up until Year 10 will have Farm School each week and our Junior pupils also enjoy weekly lessons in our four-acre Forest School. There is a comprehensive programme of lunchtime activities for pupils to choose from, including Woodwork Club, Art Club and Kurling Club. Our Boarders have evening activities every day and can choose evening activities ranging from Horse Riding, Golf and Running Club through to Warhammer Club and Film Club. Please see our Clubs and Activities page.

Question 11

How is technology integrated into the classroom?

Answer

We use Google Classroom and every child in the School has their own Google Chromebook for use in lessons. The Chromebooks have dyslexia specialist software built into them e.g. Google Dictate to help those pupils who find writing very challenging. We also have computer suites within school and our own CISCO Academy, equipping our pupils with practical and applied computer skills for life after Bredon.

Question 12

Are school meals included in the fees?

Answer

Yes. For day pupils, a morning break snack and a delicious cooked lunch is provided by our school catering team. For boarders, all meals are provided and eaten in the Dining Room. All dietary requirements and allergies can be catered for.

Question 13

What proportion of students are boarders?

Answer

Approximately 40% of our pupils are boarders. We also have a number of students who choose to flexi board and spend one, two or three evenings a week with us.

Question 14

How many international students are there at Bredon?

Answer

We welcome pupils from all over the world to Bredon and relish the cultural experiences they bring with them. Currently just under 10% of pupils at Bredon are from overseas from countries such as China, Russia, Spain, France, the Netherlands and Germany.

Question 15

Are exeat weekends compulsory?

Answer

Yes. We have an exeat weekend every half term and pupils are expected to return home or stay with their Guardian, family member or friend (arrangements to be arranged with the Head of Boarding).

Question 16

What if my child becomes unwell?

Answer

We have an on-site Medical Centre with fully trained nurses who are available from 7am – 7pm during the school day. Please see our Medical Centre page for further details.

Question 17

Do you take children who have an Educational, Health and Care Plan (EHCP)?

Answer

Yes. Approximately 30% of pupils hold an EHCP.

Question 18

Do you offer bursaries?

Answer

Yes. We have a limited number of bursaries available. Please see our fees page for more information.

Question 19

Do you offer scholarships?

Answer

Scholarships are not available at Bredon School.

Question 20

Do you offer a military discount?

Answer

Yes, a 10% discount is given to military personnel families. The MoD may also help with fees for eligible personnel to pay for the boarding school education of your child through the Continuity of Education Allowance (CEA).

Question 21

Is there a school bus?

Answer

Yes. We have nine bus routes covering the three counties. Please see our transport page for full details.

Frequently asked questions