ISI Inspection Report 2026
The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) visited us in September and found us to be meeting all statutory standards. You can read the full inspection report through the link below.
The inspectors found our curriculum to be “broad and balanced” and “designed to support pupils' academic achievement and personal development” with a breadth of subjects available that “enables pupils to follow pathways suited to their individual interests and aspirations”.
They reported that “Teachers help pupils to build on their prior learning by asking probing questions to check their understanding and by selecting a range of resources that promote independent thinking” and that “pupils are engaged in lessons and apply intellectual and creative effort to their learning”. They found that we “analyse assessment information to identify pupils who require additional academic support and those who would benefit from additional challenge, including their participation in the 'scholars' programme'”. They noted that we use self-evaluation to identify our own priorities for improvement “including the current focus on teaching and learning, which supports the progress of all pupils”.
The strength and characteristics of our Benedictine ethos shines through in the inspectors’ report, “The emphasis on respect, service, responsibility and care for others is understood across the school community and is evident in pupils' everyday conduct and relationships. These values shape leaders' decision-making and the school's consistent focus on developing the whole person, contributing to pupils' sense of belonging and responsibility towards others.”
“The school's ethos contributes to a well-established culture in which pupils treat one another with respect and consideration. This is evident in houses, at shared mealtimes and during pupils' free time, when pupils of different ages meet and develop supportive relationships with each other and with staff.”
“Pupils learn the importance of listening to and understanding others, including those from different cultures and beliefs… As a result, pupils contribute to, and share, a school community that is welcoming and inclusive.”
“The school's high behavioural expectations are reinforced through clear daily routines and reminders. Pupils support one another in their houses, treat their peers respectfully in lessons and take responsibility for communal spaces. As a result, pupils behave with maturity and show consideration for others.”
“Pupils develop self-confidence and leadership skills and understand the value of using their responsibilities to make a positive contribution to their community.”
We are delighted that the team of inspectors recognised the quality and strengths of the unique education we offer. We are very proud that this came across so clearly to them, even though they visited only one week into the new academic year, and many new teaching staff and pupils were involved.
We would like to thank the hundreds of parents who completed the survey, the results of which confirmed the positive impact that Ampleforth has on their children.
