Inspectors praise King’s for exceptional opportunities and culture of care

The King’s School Chester is celebrating an outstanding report from the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI), including the rare accolade of being given a ‘significant strength’ for the co-curricular life of the school. 

The awarding of a ‘significant strength’ is a notable honour, bestowed on only 20% of independent schools nationally, with even fewer receiving it specifically for the quality and breadth of their co-curricular programme. 

Mr Hartley said: “We understand the difference that an exceptional co-curricular programme can make in terms of nurturing intellectual curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning 

“Pupils at King’s embrace opportunities that contribute so richly to their confidence, wellbeing, and character development, from our youngest learners in Willow Lodge right through to Sixth Form.  

“So often, those crucial skills of collaboration, leadership, and resilience are developed both in and out of the classroom. I am proud that our commitment to the developing the whole child has been recognised by inspectors.”  

The school’s co-curricular provision is exceptionally broad, including sports, drama, art, music, CCF, academic scholarship, subject-related clubs, and much more, ensuring that every pupil can explore their interests and talents.

King’s met all the exacting standards of the new ISI framework, reflecting a commitment to the highest standards of educational excellence, pupil well-being and character-led education across the school. 

Mr Hartley added: “On the back of a record year of GCSE and A level results, it was perhaps no surprise that we were commended for our balanced curriculum, quality of teaching and high levels of pupil engagement, but it is particularly pleasing that inspectors noticed and  praised the inclusive and supportive environment at King’s that allows every child to flourish both academically and personally. 

“This report is a reflection of our whole community – our dedicated staff, our engaged and compassionate pupils, and the ongoing support of our parents.  We are incredibly proud of this achievement and remain committed to continuous improvement in all areas of school life.”   

Key highlights from the inspection include: 

• All exacting standards met for leadership, education, wellbeing, contribution to society and safeguarding 

• A balanced, high-quality, well-structured curriculum enables pupils to learn successfully and flourish 

• Leaders have created a warm, friendly and welcoming environment which, in turn, inspires commendable behaviour from the pupils  

• Pupils show empathy, respect for diversity and the ability to engage thoughtfully with differing viewpoints 

• Exceptional co-curricular opportunities foster confidence, leadership and creativity 

• A proactive approach to safeguarding that creates a culture of care, vigilance and trust where pupils feel safe and supported  

The full report is available to read here.   

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Headmaster George Hartley is pictured here with Head of Willow Lodge and Junior School, Michelle Dewhurst, and pupils from across the school.