Latest Inspection Report
We are delighted and proud to announce the publication of the latest Inspection Report by the Independent Schools Inspectorate, which was performed in February and March of 2011.
These are the main findings of the Inspectorate, to read the entire report please click on the "Downloads" Button
2. THE SUCCESS OF THE SCHOOL 2.(a) Main findings
2.1 Throughout the school the pupils’ achievement in academic work and in extracurricular activities is excellent overall. The curriculum supports the work of the school and supports its aims. On evidence available pupils’ attainment is above average and they make good progress. Well-developed skills in literacy, numeracy and information and communication technology (ICT) extend pupils understanding and contribute to the pupils’ excellent progress over time. Pupils are successful in all aspects of their learning, which is reflected in their considerable success at the age of eleven in scholarships awarded to independent schools. The quality of teaching is good, being both challenging and interesting, and involves all pupils well. The school is starting to introduce new systems for assessing Year 1 and 2 pupils to track their progress more accurately against national norms. The school is aware that these have yet to be fully established and embedded. Notable successes achieved by pupils who have attended activities include, for example, drama, music and dance examinations. In sporting opportunities pupils have been successful in local and regional swimming competitions and county level athletics. In academic pursuits pupils were winners in a local prep schools general knowledge quiz and runners up in a schools ‘Science Challenge’.
2.2 The pupils’ personal development is outstanding, being well supported by excellent pastoral care, welfare, health and safety arrangements. Pupils show a strong sense of responsibility and actively involve themselves in all aspects of school life, contributing to its ethos of respect which ensures that they all support and care for each other within the community. Pupils rise to the challenge when given responsibilities, for example as school prefects, form captains, library monitors, or school counsellors, and these enhance their personal development. Charity events continue throughout the year, involving pupils, parents and staff.
2.3 The quality of governance is excellent. Well-defined structures enable governors to provide effective oversight of the school. Governors offer a wide range of experience and a number have undertaken appropriate training. They have clearly defined roles and discharge their statutory responsibilities correctly. Leadership and management of the school are excellent. Structures and routines are clear, comprehensive and well communicated and are effective at all levels. Recruitment procedures are efficient and safe. The school has good links with parents, whose responses to the pre-inspection questionnaire were overwhelmingly favourable.
6. THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE EARLY YEARS FOUNDATION STAGE
6.1 This is an outstanding setting, which is highly effective in meeting the needs of the children and provides good support as required. Excellent teaching and a nurturing and stimulating environment ensures that all children achieve high standards in their learning and development. Children’s welfare is effectively promoted and thorough safeguarding procedures are in place. Teachers’ detailed knowledge of the children ensures that they have the best start to their education. The recent self-evaluation reveals a clear vision for future developments and the capacity for sustained improvement.