Whitehall School , founded in 1983, is a small independent day school, which takes boys and girls from 2½ to 11 years of age. It is a member of the Independent Schools Association (ISA).

The school is situated in pleasant grounds in the Cambridgeshire village of Somersham – within easy access of Cambridge and Huntingdon. Its secure site consists of a main house, 18 th century coach house, covered swimming pool, play areas and gardens, games field and separate library building.

• The school achieves its aims and meets the needs of its pupils effectively. A broad and wide-ranging curriculum is provided with opportunities for all pupils to learn and achieve well.
• Extra-curricular activities are notably extensive for a small school. Teaching is generally good and sometimes outstanding.
• Pupils are exceptionally well cared for and provision for their personal development is excellent.
• The headteacher leads a strong staff team very effectively.
• Both parents and pupils are very positive about the educational experiences provided, and relationships between all in the school community are very strong.
• The educational experience provided is of a high quality.
• Induction into the Foundation stage is well thought out and very effective.
• Results in national tests at age 11 over three years up to 2004 in English maths and science were high for pupils' abilities: they were far above the national average in English.
• Pupils have very positive attitudes and are extremely well motivated; their behaviour is exemplary.
• Pupils demonstrate an outstandingly well- developed spiritual, moral and cultural awareness.
• Relationships in lessons are outstanding.
• The quality of pastoral cure in the school is outstanding.
• Parents receive a very wide range of information and newsletters regularly.

Pupils move through Foundation and Infant stages to the Junior department where we prepare them for entry and scholarships to all major independent and maintained secondary schools.

At Whitehall School , we offer a broad, balanced and challenging curriculum, setting out not only to achieve high academic standards, but also to promote well rounded educational development. In this way, our pupils are encouraged to develop lively, questioning minds so that they acquire knowledge, skills and understanding in all elements of study. Homework is used throughout the school to support work covered in lessons.

We aim to ensure that all children make the most of their talents by extending the more able, whilst providing support for those who require it. We always set high standards and expectations, emphasising the importance of doing one’s best both within and outside the classroom. Reliability, consideration for others, good manners and self-discipline are all highly valued.

The school’s curriculum is based around the National Curriculum guidelines which have been enhanced to provide our pupils with the best possible education. To ensure constant development and progression, t he Headteacher and his staff regularly review curriculum content and delivery. Curriculum information is provided for parents through half termly letters and a series of curriculum evenings.

Performing arts

The performing arts play a central role in the lives of all pupils at Whitehall School . Dance and drama are taught within the curriculum and regular productions, concerts and talent shows allow plenty of opportunity for children to develop their confidence, experience and ability.

Each year, many pupils participate in local drama and poetry festivals and we have an outstanding record of success, winning many trophies.

The School maintains a strong musical tradition, where talent is nurtured and stimulated. Music is an integral part of the curriculum and is taught by a specialist teacher from Key Stage One. Children have the opportunity to learn to play the piano and recorder and to participate in musical activities and performances, both internal and in public, throughout the year.

Sports

Sport plays an important part in the daily life of Whitehall School and we are very much of the view ‘healthy body, healthy mind’. All the pupils have at least four P.E. lessons a week including activities such as games, athletics, cross-country, dance and gym. Swimming lessons take place in our own heated swimming pool. The children are encouraged to develop skills, interest and enjoyment in sport, whilst keeping fit and active.

Numerous other opportunities are available through after school activities and school teams regularly take part in inter-school matches and tournaments. In this way we aim to foster a healthy, competitive spirit, which is also evident in annual sports days.

Extra curricular activities

Whitehall School offers a wide range of extra curricular activities each day for infant and junior children, with over 20 clubs available every term. These provide an opportunity for pupils to develop or discover new interests and to experience another dimension of education.

Popular activities include chess, dance, aerobics, sports, fun with science, Spanish, computers, poetry, drama, music, art and craft, technology and parachute games. There are also opportunities for the older pupils to participate in the Cycle Proficiency scheme.

Early morning and late stay facilities are available at an additional charge for those parents who require them.