The Senior and Junior Schools of Plymouth College are celebrating the 'outstanding' results of a rigorous inspection carried out by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI). Not only did both schools meet all the regulatory requirements in the areas assessed but between them they achieved three 'outstanding' and nine 'good' judgements accompanied by a clutch of positive comments.
Inspectors commended the "diverse and enriching" education at the Senior School and observed "high levels of success" across a wide range of activities. They said that "staff teach their pupils well" and that "the relaxed and friendly manner in which pupils and staff work together enhances every aspect of the life of the College and promotes the development of pupils". The inspectors concluded that "good leadership and management throughout the College give clear direction and support in creating an educational experience of benefit to all pupils".
They said that the life of a pupil at Plymouth College Junior School is "rich and rewarding" and praised the school for its good teaching and for the high standard of its activities. Inspectors commended the school on providing "an all-round education of high quality that fulfils the aims of the school in challenging pupils with high expectations and providing opportunities for each child to fulfil their potential within a wide and balanced curriculum".
ISI is the independent schools sector's equivalent of OFSTED. Inspections take place every six years. The latest inspection was carried out in November 2007, with the official report published in February 2008.
"We are extremely pleased with the inspection report", said Plymouth College Headmaster, Dr Simon Wormleighton. "We knew that we had all the elements of a resoundingly good school and it is so rewarding to have that officially recognised. I am particularly delighted that the school was judged 'outstanding' in three areas of assessment. The report states that the College has very few issues to resolve. Never the less this will not result in a complacent satisfaction with things as they are. Rather it will provide the spur to develop and improve further all that we offer in order to provide the very best education possible for present and future pupils".
Chris Gatherer, Plymouth College Junior School Headmaster said: "I am particularly pleased that the report reflects the 'strong sense of cohesion in the community' and the fact that the 'quality of the care, guidance and personal development of pupils' is such a strong feature of the school. I am delighted that the inspectors were so impressed with our academic results and the happy atmosphere. We have a great history and this report shows how well we are retaining the traditional strengths of the school while constantly evolving to ensure that our pupils get the best possible preparation for secondary education and beyond".
Copies of the reports are available by calling 01752 203245 (Senior School) or 01752 201368 (Junior School).
For more information please contact Stephi Baker on 01752 203241.
ISI Inspection System:
The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) arranges and carries out the inspection of any school that wishes to be accredited by the Independent Schools Council (ISC), thus enabling its head to become a member of one of the ISC's affiliated association of schools. The ISI also inspects every school whose head is already a member of one of these associations.
The ISI inspects schools according to a standard framework for inspection which it has laid down for the purposes of ensuring that standards are maintained and that the school complies with relevant legal requirements. This framework has been agreed with the DCSF and they have recognised the ISI as the body responsible for the regular inspection of schools in England which are affiliated to the ISC.
