Stroud School achieves highest grade obtainable in ISI inspection

Stroud School in Romsey is delighted to announce that it has achieved ‘Excellent’ – the highest possible grading – in its latest Focused Compliance and Educational Quality Inspection report from the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI). The top grading was achieved in both academic achievement and personal development, and was recognised as such from Nursery to Year 8. The ISI is the Ofsted equivalent for independent schools, approved by the Department for Education. This was the first inspection of this type that the school has had since 2011 and follows a Regulated Compliance Inspection in 2017 which the school passed with no recommendations.

Among the key findings for pupils’ academic achievements, the inspection team identified that “pupils’ knowledge, skills and understanding are strong across all areas of the curriculum. Their linguistic and mathematical skills are outstanding…” The report also stated that Stroud pupils are “outstanding, articulate communicators and confidently express their opinions and ideas to each other and their teachers because teaching allows them to question and explore in an atmosphere of mutual trust.”

In the report, the quality of the pupils’ personal development was also excellent and, following a range of pupil interviews, the team commented on the pupils’ confidence: “Pupils demonstrate exceptional levels of self-knowledge, self-esteem, self-confidence and resilience.” The report also stated that Stroud pupils “have a strong moral compass: they are very aware of the school’s expectations and their behaviour is exemplary. Pupils are very confident and reflective learners due to the embedding of the ‘Stroud Spirit’ across all areas of school life.”

Stroud children are proud of their school and are excellent ambassadors. The ISI inspectors also received very positive feedback from the eparents’ online survey, who appreciate the school’s promotion of good behaviour, outstanding curriculum and excellent pastoral support.

The Chair of the Stroud governors’ sub-committee, Mrs Caryn Musker, notes: “I am delighted that the inspectors have recognised all that is wonderful about Stroud School. It is a well-deserved tribute to every single member of the team, and to our wonderful children who so impressed the inspectors with their energy, their enthusiasm for learning and their love of the school.”

Mr Worrall, Headmaster, commented: “Our pupils continue to impress and humble me. It is clear from the report that our sense of community, our core values of Honesty, Respect and Happiness, and the enabling of pupils’ academic and pastoral development are all operating at exceptionally high levels. It is a great platform upon which we can continue to build! I am delighted with the team’s findings, which are due in no small part to our supportive parents and all the staff in every area of the school.”

The next Open Day is Saturday 14 March, 10am-2pm. To arrange a visit, call 01794 513231 or email registrar@stroud-kes.org.uk.