INSPECTORS have praised a school’s strong sense of community and distinctive ethos which makes it a special place to learn.
Officials from the Department for Education-appointed Independent Schools Inspectorate spent a week at Barnard Castle School and Preparatory School examining every aspect of life.
They found standards to have been met in key areas including leadership, management and governance, the quality of education, training and recreation, pupils’ physical and mental health and wellbeing, students’ social and economic education and contribution to society and safeguarding.
Headmaster David Cresswell said: “The inspection process provided an excellent opportunity for the inspectors to experience daily life across our whole school community, from the earliest years in the preparatory school through to the senior school and boarding houses.
“Their findings recognise the strength of our educational provision, the quality of relationships across the school and the distinctive ethos that underpins all that we do at Barnard Castle School.
“My sincere thanks must go to all colleagues, pupils, parents and governors for the part they play in making Barnard Castle School such a special place to live, learn and grow. This report affirms much of what makes our school distinctive; a community rooted in strong values, ambitious for every child and committed to nurturing young people of character, confidence and compassion.”
Inspectors highlighted that leaders throughout the school and governors provided a clear vision that was firmly rooted in its ethos and values.
The report recognised the inclusive and purposeful culture of the school, the consistently positive relationships between pupils and staff and the strong sense of community that defined life at Barney.
Inspectors said: “Pupils demonstrate a well-developed sense of responsibility and contribute positively to the wider school community.”
The report also celebrated the breadth of opportunities available to pupils. Inspectors praised the way senior school opportunities such as public speaking, the Lectern Club, drama, music and competitive sport helped pupils to develop ambition, independence and leadership skills.
Equally, they recognised the important contribution made by pupil leadership roles throughout the school, including head boy and head girl, prefects and boarding house leaders.
In Prep School and early years, the inspectors observed the “caring and carefully created environment” provided for every child. They noted that children benefitted from a “well-structured and carefully planned introduction to school life” and developed “growing independence, confidence and positive attitudes to learning within a caring and well-structured setting”.
The boarding community was also warmly commended. Inspectors found boarding houses to be “inclusive and friendly”, highlighting the positive relationships between pupils and staff which fostered a “genuine sense of belonging”.
Mr Cresswell also highlighted statistics gathered through a survey which revealed 97 per cent of parents said their children were happy at Barney; 97 per cent of parents said the school helped their child settle well into boarding; and 100 per cent of parents felt their child was looked after well if they were ill or injured.
He added: “These outcomes reflect the dedication, care and professionalism of our staff, the enthusiasm and character of our pupils and the support of our wider parent community.”