Chard Prep School receives positive feedback from ISI report

Under the new ISI framework, which assesses schools as either “met” or “not met”, it was recently announced that Chard Prep School has met all standards.

A spokesperson for Chard Prep School said: “We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional value.

“On average, our termly fees are 34% lower than the average fees of local prep schools. However, it’s not just lower fees that make Chard Prep School an outstanding choice.

“What truly sets us apart is the exceptional value we offer through our unique blend of educational excellence and holistic personal development.”

The key insights from the report celebrate the “exceptional contributions” of the school’s staff, governors, pupils, and parent community in creating a “truly special and nurturing” environment.

The ISI report particularly commended Chard Prep School’s inclusive and collaborative leadership, noting that it helps to create a calm and purposeful atmosphere where pupils are well-supported.

This aligns with the school’s overall mission to promote well-rounded development and build confidence in each of its pupils.

The report stated, “The school leaders’ approach is inclusive and collaborative, resulting in a school community atmosphere which is calm and purposeful.”

Supporting this, a recent questionnaire sent out by the school revealed that parents overwhelmingly feel that their children are happy at the school and making good progress.

The report also highlighted the pupils’ strong respect for others and the staff’s commitment to understanding differences while fostering wellbeing.

The ISI report said: “Staff and pupils are respectful towards each other. They actively promote understanding of the ways people can be different.”

Additionally, the ISI recognised the school’s comprehensive curriculum and teaching, which supports its strategy for academic excellence.

The report said: “Pupils benefit from an ambitious curriculum that covers a broad range of subjects. The teachers’ strong subject knowledge is evident in many lessons, and the positive impact of this upon pupils’ own depth of understanding is clear.”

Chard Prep School ‘s overall focus on small class sizes and the use of specialist teaching staff from Year 1 were also acknowledged as key strengths – along with the school’s “extensive range” of extracurricular activities and focus on outdoor learning.

The ISI report further reinforced the strength of the school’s pastoral care and focus on pupil wellbeing, remarking the school has many “warm relationships and clear, consistent expectations from staff foster an environment where children behave well and actively participate in their learning.”

The school spokesperson added: “Chard Prep School is incredibly proud of these findings and remains committed to providing an outstanding educational experience for all children.

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to our dedicated staff, wonderful pupils, and supportive parents for their continuous efforts in making Chard Prep a truly special place to learn and grow.”