Independent school celebrates top marks from inspectors

Derby High School is celebrating after being given the highest possible rating following an inspection.

The independent, coeducational day school has been rated as ‘excellent’ following a full inspection from the Independent Schools Inspectorate earlier this year.

The inspection was focused on the pupils’ academic and other achievements, as well as their personal development, with the school being found to be ‘excellent’ in every category.

After a three-day process of interviewing staff and students, surveying parents and observing classes and daily life at the school, the inspectors commented that pupils at Derby High “develop an excellent range of knowledge, skills and understanding across all age ranges throughout the school, well supported by the strong school-wide culture of respect and nurture”.

In addition, they noted that “attitudes to learning are exemplary, demonstrating excellent initiative and independence, both individually and collaboratively”.

As a consequence, pupils “make excellent progress across the school, attaining A level grades significantly higher than expected for those of their ability.”

Along with excellent academic results at GCSE and A level, Derby High prides itself on being a supportive and nurturing school with exceptional pastoral care and this was recognised by the inspectors.

The report concluded that “excellent moral awareness is deeply embedded into the ethos, values, policies and behavioural practices within the school; pupils readily take responsibility for their own behaviour and have a clear awareness of right and wrong”.

The inspectors commented on pupils being “mature, insightful and perceptive beyond their years”.

They remarked on “an excellent sense of community and responsibility towards others” and observed that “pupils are extremely tolerant and caring, and show sense and sensitivity to those from different backgrounds and traditions.”

Amy Chapman, head of Derby High, which has 640 students, aged three to 18, said: “I’m absolutely delighted with the outcome of the inspection.

“To receive ‘excellent’ ratings for both pupils’ achievements and personal development is testimony to the hard work and ongoing commitment from all the staff at Derby High, as well as the students’ positive attitude to learning.”