Why inspections matter
In the world of independent education, school inspections serve as the cornerstone of excellence and accountability. These comprehensive evaluations provide parents with crucial insights into a school's performance, standards, and overall quality of education.
For parents considering independent education, inspection reports are more than just documents – they're a window into your child's potential future. They offer:
- Independent verification of educational standards
- Detailed assessment of teaching quality
- Insights into student wellbeing and personal development
- Evaluation of leadership effectiveness
- Evidence of regulatory compliance
What is "ISI"?
The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) is the body responsible for inspecting independent schools in the UK. Unlike standard OFSTED inspections (which are predominantly for state schools), ISI inspections are specifically tailored to the independent sector, with a deep understanding of what makes independent education unique.
How we can help
They inspect over 1,200 schools, making sure each one meets government standards for education quality and student wellbeing. Every inspection results in a public report that helps parents make informed choices about their children's education.
At Chattan Harbour, our consultants have not only led successful ISI inspections but have been at the helm of some of the UK's finest schools - meaning we know exactly what excellence looks like from the inside.
Understanding the Standards That Shape Your Child's Education - the ISI Principles
01
Children Come First
Every decision and assessment is made with your child's happiness, safety, and success in mind.
02
Everyone Belongs
They make sure schools welcome and support all children, checking that every student has the chance to thrive, regardless of their background.
03
Fair and Independent
Like an independent referee, ISI has no ties to the schools they inspect, ensuring their judgments are always honest and unbiased.
04
Open and Clear
They believe parents deserve to know everything about their child's potential school, which is why all their inspection reports are public and easily accessible.
What you will find in a report
The big picture: a clear overview of what the inspectors found - think of it as the school's report card
School Leadership: how well the school is run, from the headteacher to the governors
Learning and achievement: your child's educational journey - from classroom success to sports and activities
Health and Happiness: how the school supports students' physical and mental wellbeing
Life skills and community: how students develop social skills and contribute to the wider world
Keeping children safe: the school's approach to student safety and protection
As of September 2023, no inspection has an overall grading. You won't find words like "outstanding" or "good" anymore.
There are standards that are either "met" or "not met"; if you see anything else, it is a report from an older inspection before the new "framework".
"Unannounced Inspections"
Sometimes ISI needs to visit a school without advance notice - we call these 'emergency inspections.' As parents, you might wonder what this means. Think of it like a spot-check: ISI inspectors arrive at the school unexpectedly to look closely at specific concerns that need immediate attention.
Having led schools ourselves, we know these inspections can sound worrying, but they're actually part of ISI's commitment to keeping standards high.
They are typically for one of three reasons: safeguarding concerns, concerns over leadership and governance, or a significant "material change" to the school.
The Chattan Harbour Difference
At Chattan Harbour, we've led schools through inspections successfully. That's why our Gold tier (and above) families can reach out to us right away if they hear about an emergency inspection at their child's school. We'll help you understand what's happening, what it means for your child, and what questions to ask - all in plain English, no education jargon.
What Inspectors Say About Schools
We've Led
Leaders have established a culture of vigilance which promotes the safeguarding and welfare of pupils
October 2023
The headteacher demonstrates a keen determination to motivate and empower staff to provide all learners with
the highest quality school experience.
May 2024
Boarders benefit from well-organised houses that pupils say are like a second home to them.
October 2023
Book your consultation
Understanding ISI reports is a crucial part of choosing the right school for your child. At Chattan Harbour, we don't just read these reports - we've helped create them.
Your child's education is too important for guesswork. Let's navigate this journey together.