Following a
full ISI inspection in April 2015, Shiplake College has been judged as
‘excellent’ across every single inspection category, the highest possible grade
of achievement. Commendation of this magnitude is rare in independent
education, placing Shiplake amongst the leading independent schools in the
country.
A team of ISI inspectors visited
the College from Tuesday 28 April to Friday 1 May 2015. The inspectors observed
lessons, conducted formal interviews with pupils and examined samples of
pupils’ work. They held discussions with staff, observed extra-curricular
activities, conducted a full assessment of boarding, reviewed exam results and analysed the responses of parents and pupils
to pre-inspection questionnaires.
The inspection report gave a
clear judgement on each aspect of the school’s work. These headline statements are
based on a four point descriptor scale ranging from ‘unsatisfactory’ to
‘excellent’. After collating and analysing evidence in each of the nine
domains, the inspection team deemed Shiplake College to be ‘excellent’ – the
highest accolade – in every field.
Quality of academic and other achievements
Under the umbrella of the 'quality of academic and other achievements', inspectors deemed the 'quality of pupils' achievements and learning', 'the contribution of curricular and extra-curricular provision' and 'the contribution of teaching', all to be excellent. The report stated that 'pupils receive a high quality of education, consistent with the school's aims to provide a broad education that encourages individuals to achieve their full potential.'
The positive attitude of pupils towards learning,
particularly through the use of the innovative and popular Thinking Space, was
frequently referenced. The ISI representatives were highly impressed by the
individualised curricular and extra-curricular programmes in place, which
‘allow all pupils to develop self-confidence, achieve a measure of personal
success and be challenged inside and outside the classroom.’ Inspectors were
extremely complimentary of Shiplake’s teaching staff, with over 50% of lessons
observed receiving the highest possible grade – a truly exceptional statistic.
Special praise was reserved for teachers’ ‘warm and respectful relationships
with pupils’, whom they get to know very well as individuals.
Quality of pupils' personal development
The next section of the inspection focused on ‘the quality
of pupils’ personal development.’ Spiritual,
moral, social and cultural development were all deemed as excellent, in
addition to the ‘contribution of
arrangements for pastoral care’, ‘arrangements
for welfare, health and safety’ and notably, the ‘quality of boarding’.
The report noted that ‘pupils display a cheerful confidence
and ready courtesy to all members of the community, and flourish in the
school’s nurturing and supportive atmosphere.’ Inspectors cited numerous
opportunities which allowed pupils to ‘develop their character, confidence and
leadership skills.’ Shiplake’s welcoming atmosphere was not lost on our
visitors as they explained that ‘the school is highly successful in maintaining
a friendly atmosphere, which enables pupils and staff to enjoy their busy
working lives.’ The report was also full of praise for the pastoral management
and care offered by staff throughout the College.
A comprehensive review of our boarding provision concluded
that ‘the school works extremely hard to nurture, encourage, challenge and
support every boarder in its care’, observing that ‘boarders are confident,
courteous and self-reliant’. Excellent pastoral care is evident through all
boarding houses, as ‘staff at all levels show interest and pride in boarders’
achievements and are keen to support them in furthering and widening their
skills.’ The assessment also covered boarding facilities and the systems in
place to safeguard pupils’ welfare and safety, which were described as ‘robust
and well-developed’.
The Effectiveness of Governance, Leadership and Management
The report’s final judgements found the ‘quality of governance’ and ‘quality of leadership and management’ to
be excellent. This includes links with parents, carers and guardians.
Inspectors found that governors and senior staff shared a clear vision for the
school’s development. ‘Commitment to enhancing the school’s academic life’ and
‘commitment to meeting the needs of each pupil’ were identified as particular
strengths of the school’s leadership and management.
The Headmaster’s View
‘We are proud and
thrilled to be formally recognised as one of the leading independent schools in
the country. It is a great honour to be classed as ‘excellent’ in every domain,
affirming our belief that the College has evolved and progressed significantly
in recent years. I am particularly proud that our teaching and learning,
personal development of pupils, and ability to inspire and engender creativity
and innovation amongst young people are now applauded alongside the outstanding
pastoral care and extra-curricular provision for which we have always been
known.’
This excellent news, arriving so shortly after our
overwhelmingly positive parent satisfaction survey results, is testament to the
skill, passion and dedication of my colleagues. We look forward to carrying
this momentum through the summer into the next academic year and continuing our
excellent development as a College, built on the strength of our unique and
unwavering community spirit.’
Gregg Davies
Downloads
We hope that you
will find time to read the ISI report in its entirety. However, we have also
compiled a summary of the most salient points for ease of reference. Both
documents are available to download below:
ISI Inspection Summary
Full ISI Inspection Report