We underwent a school inspection last month and are delighted to be able to share the final report with you. 

You may be aware that ISI has changed the way inspection reports are written. The focus is no longer on the ‘quality of education’, rather on compliance with the standards. As a result the reports now contain rather bland language. That being said, we are pleased to say that we have passed with flying colours or, in ISI speak, that we have met all the standards!

You can read the report by clicking here.

Some of the key comments include:
● Pupils learn and achieve well, including in public examinations at the end of Years 11 and 13.
● The curriculum is delivered well by knowledgeable teachers who foster a love of
learning among pupils.
● Teachers nurture pupils’ eagerness to learn and equip them to embrace academic challenge.
● The digital strategy across the school enhances pupils’ learning experiences, enabling them to use information and communication technology (ICT) effectively across the curriculum and in their independent study.
● Well-planned pastoral care and opportunities for pupils to develop their personal and social skills nurture pupils’ self-awareness and self-esteem.
● Pupils behave well in and out of lessons, demonstrate kindness and model mutual respect for all.
● They are taught about the importance of respect and are considerate of others while expressing their own opinions. They take active roles in contributing to the local community.

● In the early years, effective teaching and nurturing help children to develop
self-confidence and self-esteem, and this has a positive impact on their wellbeing.
● Highly skilled teachers and teaching assistants deliver engaging activities that enthuse children in their learning and play. Leaders are diligent in ensuring that children have a range of opportunities in well-equipped areas both indoors and outside. As a result, children settle and progress in a secure and purposeful environment within an atmosphere of happy engagement.

Above all, we were pleased to see their view that we “actively prepare pupils for the future”, which is the key to our mission at Channing.

We received only two recommendations in the report. The first was to ensure that the attendance policy reflects the most up-to-date statutory guidance and the effective practice in the school. We did this while the inspectors were still in school.

The second is to ensure that tracking and assessment information is used consistently across all departments in the Senior School to support pupils’ progress. This came as no surprise as we have already started work on this important aspect of school life. Rest assured that it will continue throughout the remainder of the academic year and beyond.

We would like to thank our extraordinary and tirelessly committed staff and Governors for the unwavering support that they have shown to our pupils. And last but not least our congratulations to the fabulous Channing pupils, who live the Channing values every day and make this such a wonderful and special school. We are delighted that the inspectors recognised this so clearly: thank you all.