The Acorn School

URN: 115808 • Stroud GL6 0BP

Overview

Name
The Acorn School
URN
115808
Type
Other independent school
Phase
Not applicable
Status
Open
Gender
Mixed
Religious
None
Admissions
Not applicable
Trust
Private
Yes
Ofsted rating
Outstanding
Ranking score
58.7 / 100
School thumbnail

Leadership & Contact

Headteacher
Mario Peters (since 2025) , Headteacher
Telephone
01453836508
Website
Visit
Address
Church Street, Stroud GL6 0BP

Summary

The Acorn School is a small, independent, Steiner-Waldorf inspired institution located in Nailsworth, Gloucestershire, catering to children aged 6 to 18 years. Established in 1991, the school transitioned to a charitable status in 2023 and has consistently focused on nurturing individual talents through a broad and ambitious curriculum. The school emphasizes experiential learning and personal development, fostering a supportive environment for all students, including those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

In May 2023, The Acorn School received an 'Outstanding' rating from Ofsted across all five inspection categories, highlighting the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership, and sixth-form provision. The school adopts a unique approach by not offering traditional exam-based qualifications, instead providing the New Zealand Certificate of Steiner Education (NZCSE), which is recognised by universities in the UK and internationally.

The Acorn School prides itself on its community ethos, where teachers know each child personally, allowing for tailored educational experiences. The school aims to create confident, balanced, and conscientious young people prepared to engage thoughtfully with the world.

Key details

LA
Gloucestershire
Age range
6 - 18
Boarders
No boarders
Sixth form
Has a sixth form
Trust
Capacity
123
Pupils
88
Boys
30
Girls
58
FSM %
Open date
1992-01-22
Close date
Last Ofsted
2023-05-25
Next inspection
Data snapshot
2025-07-14
County
Gloucestershire

Trends

DatePupilsBoysGirlsCapacityFSM%
2025-07-14 88 30 58 123
2024-09-11 70 27 43 123
2023-09-11 70 29 41 123 0.00
2022-09-11 70 29 41 123 0.00
2021-09-11 62 26 36 123 0.00
2020-09-11 50 26 24 123 0.00

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