Independent SchooIs Inspectorate

Last term Hipperholme Grammar received a visit from the Independent Schools Inspectorate. The report has now been finalised and published, and the Governors of Hipperholme Grammar are delighted to announce that the school meets all five Independent School Standards.

 

The brand new inspection framework has done away with the old ‘one-word’ judgements in favour of more nuanced and descriptive language about a school’s strengths. Inspectors found that the school’s “nurturing care is characteristic of a culture which is inclusive and supportive of all pupils”, also noting the school’s “dedicated and compassionate care”.  They observed that “secure and respectful relationships between pupils and staff enable the pupils to feel safe and flourish”, identifying that “pupils of all abilities make good progress”. They highlighted the “extensive programme of recreational, intellectual, social, creative and physical co-curricular opportunities available” and praised “the wide celebration of diverse cultures… [that] promotes tolerance and respect between those of different faiths, background and race”.

 

Head of Foundation, Mr Nicholas James, said: “I am immensely proud of the staff and the pupils; the inspectors commented in their verbal feedback how welcome they had been made to feel by the school community, and it is clear from the published report that they left with a strong sense of the nurturing environment that permeates the whole Foundation.”

 

The extent to which the school meets the Standards:

  • Standards relating to leadership and management, and governance, are met.
  • Standards relating to the quality of education, training and recreation are met.
  • Standards relating to pupils’ physical and mental health and emotional wellbeing are met.
  • Standards relating to pupils’ social and economic education and contribution to society are met.
  • Standards relating to safeguarding are met.


Summary of inspection findings:

  • Leadership is successful at all levels in promoting the wellbeing of pupils. The nurturing care is characteristic of a culture which is inclusive and supportive of all pupils whatever their background and ability.
  • The school provides dedicated and compassionate care and creates a sense of community where pupils are sensitive to the needs of others and welcome all, irrespective of background or circumstance.
  • Pupils have the confidence to be open in their discussions about their experiences within the school. Their comments reflect maturity and extremely thoughtful and balanced viewpoints, which reflect the school’s leaders’ efforts to establish rapport and harmonious relationships.
  • Leadership at all levels enables pupils to make good progress and gain the skills and experience necessary for the future. Teachers demonstrate an effective understanding of the aptitudes and prior attainment of all groups of pupils in the school to ensure that their educational needs are met. Staff provide effective support to pupils who have special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) that enables them to make good progress.
  • Leaders maintain effective self-evaluation. For example, they have accurately identified that collaboration between the junior and senior sections of the school could be strengthened to benefit pupils’ transition and continuity of learning between the two departments.
  • The school has a robust approach to safeguarding. Leaders encourage pupils to share any concerns that they might have. Pupils feel safe in school.
  • Throughout the school, pupils of all ages display an appropriate awareness, appreciation and understanding of diversity and different cultures. Pupils representing diverse backgrounds mix and work with each other happily and comfortably.
  • Pupils welcome leadership opportunities as enhancing their sense of self-worth and self-esteem. However, the range of such opportunities is not as extensive as possible.

 

All reports are available on the ISI website and can be downloaded below:

Inspection Report November 2023

Archive:

Inspection Report January 2020

Inspection Report May 2019

Inspection Report May 2016

Inspection Report April 2013