Private School News

EXCELLENCE AT FARNBOROUGH HILL CONFIRMED BY INSPECTION REPORTS

Farnborough Hill ‘aspires to academic excellence and to giving pupils a sense of fun and enjoyment in their learning. It amply fulfils both these aims’ according to school inspectors. Inspection reports by ISI in May and by the Portsmouth Diocesan Validation team in April have just been released. Mrs Sarah Buckle, Headmistress, said “Both reports describe Farnborough Hill, its students and staff in the most glowing terms. It was gratifying to know that independent assessors came to such positive conclusions based on all the evidence before them.”

The ISI report praised all aspects of the school. Mrs Buckle commented “We were particularly pleased to have our pastoral care recognised as ‘outstanding’ and our teaching summarised by the phases ‘the staff teach enthusiastically, imaginatively and very effectively” and “many lessons are taught to an outstanding standard”.

Other statements that the school is particularly proud of include:
·‘Socially, pupils display a cheerful and enthusiastic attitude towards school life. They enjoy excellent relationships with each other, within and across year groups, and with the staff.’
·‘The pupils … are confident, without being over-confident; they are concerned for each other and for their fellow human beings; they become courteous and responsible young people.’
·‘The school has a vibrant cultural life, which pupils enjoy and in which they take pride.’
·‘The school enjoys excellent governance and strong leadership at all levels.’

Phrases used by the Diocesan Validators include:
·“The positive Christian ethos and respectful interpersonal relationships reflect the excellent spiritual and moral development of the students”
·“A dedicated and talented staff combines with the enthusiastic and well motivated students to create a community that pulsates with activity and endeavour.”
·“Teaching and attainment in Religious Education are outstanding.”

Praise is also included for Farnborough Hill’s community links, charity work, extra-curricular programme, learning support and provision for gifted and talented. Mrs Buckle says “We are very proud of the students and staff who do so much to make all this happen.”

Of course there is always room for improvement and both reports include targets and next steps for the school which had already been identified. For example Farnborough Hill is reviewing the timing of the school day to accommodate the increased time needed by students to move to the new sports hall, art, design and technology facilities.