At Ranelagh we are proud of our excellent reputation and strong sense of tradition. Our aim is to provide a supportive, stimulating and secure environment in which young people can thrive. The quality of guidance and pastoral care given to students is outstanding, but every member of the school community is also encouraged to take responsibility for their learning; students thereby grow in confidence, resilience and independence.

As a Church of England School, supported by the diocese of Oxford, education at Ranelagh is provided within the context of Christian belief and practice. The school’s latest SIAMS (Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools) report in March 2014, highlighted the way in which “the values of forgiveness, compassion, stewardship and reconciliation are fully understood and embedded in all aspects of school life.” This is a happy school in which we encourage an understanding of the meaning and significance of faith and promote Christian values through the experiences we offer each individual.

The excellent academic achievements of our students are underpinned by the high expectations established for all. Individuals are valued and expected to give of their best. We are, therefore, delighted that this has been recognised at national level. The school has received four consecutive outstanding Ofsted reports. Described as “a continually improving school”, we are restless to excel.

Naturally, we want students to achieve the best possible outcomes in public examinations, but we also recognise the fundamental importance of providing opportunities for sporting and creative excellence. The specialisms established in visual arts, business and enterprise, and maths and computing under the government’s former Specialist School programme are still very apparent in the school. They contribute significantly to our success and to a diverse programme of curriculum enrichment.

Education is, of course, a partnership. At Ranelagh, we know that, effective communication between home and school is essential if the needs of each child are to be recognised and met. Parents are always welcome and should not hesitate to contact the school to ask questions or to seek advice and reassurance. There are regular consultation evenings as well as occasions when parents and teachers are able to meet on a more informal basis. We are fortunate to have the active support of both a thriving Parent Teacher Association and the Friends of Ranelagh.