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13
Feb
Government inspectors deliver verdict on independent Harrogate school
An independent Harrogate school has received widespread praise from government inspectors.
Harrogate Ladies’ College was found to have met all required standards following an inspection in October last year.
The 494-pupil school, which includes 103 boarders, charges £6,800 per term for day students and about £13,000 for boarders, was assessed by the Independent Schools Inspectorate rather than Ofsted.
Six inspectors visited the ladies’ college on Clarence Drive, alongside Highfield Prep School and Highfield Pre-School, for what was the first inspection for three years.
They observed lessons, assemblies and extra-curricular activities and evaluated five key areas: leadership, management and governance; quality of education, training and recreation; physical, mental and emotional wellbeing; social and economic education; and safeguarding.
The recently published report praised the school for its effective governance structure.
It said:
The school’s governance structure ensures effective oversight, with governors providing support and challenge to senior leaders. Senior leaders annually review and update policies to ensure they are up to date, and changes are implemented effectively.
Governors actively ensure that risks are managed, and leaders collaborate with external agencies to support safeguarding. Pupil feedback is valued, leading to changes such as a revised sixth form dress code.
'Effective curriculum'
The report also praised the school’s quality of education. It said the curriculum is well-planned and effectively delivered, and that the teachers demonstrate a good subject knowledge and enthusiasm. Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) were seen to have been identified promptly.
The inspectors also praised the school for its diverse range of extra-curricular activities and said it met the required standards for the wellbeing of pupils. They said:
Leaders have introduced and embedded the ‘I am me’ approach which celebrates inclusivity, encouraging pupils to believe in themselves.
Well-trained boarding leaders understand how to actively promote and support the wellbeing of boarders and provide activities such as ‘Wellness Wednesdays’, inter-year discussions and mindfulness.
Respect for all is encouraged through chapel services and assemblies at which pupils present topical matters that are personal to themselves. This has included presentations on different faiths and mental health awareness.
The report described safeguarding measures as satisfactory. All staff, including those involved in boarding, received appropriate training for their roles, and a robust system is in place for the recruitment process.
Chair of governors Dame Francine Holroyd said:
The report really captures what is so special about our school community and our pupils, in particular. We were pleased the inspectors saw what we see every day, that our pupils are incredible, and our school community is inclusive, respectful and safe.
We have an outstanding staff body who deliver a first-class education from pre-school to sixth form, and the glowing feedback from the inspectors is testament to their hard work; their innovation; and their talent.
I’d like to thank all the pupils, parents and staff who took part in the rigorous inspection process and who are such wonderful advocates for our school community.
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