Under this updated framework, schools no longer receive a singular judgement or grading from inspectors. Gone are the days of being rated as ‘Excellent’ or ‘Good,’ as was the practice under the previous framework. Consequently, the 2024 report does not assign a specific grade for Forest Park.
Instead, it highlights our compliance with all areas (reported as met) demonstrating our adherence to the standards and regulations governing independent schools. Furthermore, the report provides a detailed commentary on various aspects of school life, outlined below:
- Summary of overall inspection findings
- Section 1: Leadership and management, and governance
- Section 2: Pupils’ education, training and recreation, to include pupils’ outcomes
- Section 3: Pupils’ physical and mental health and emotional wellbeing
- Section 4: Pupils’ social and economic wellbeing and contribution to society
- Safeguarding
We are thrilled that the inspectors really got to know and understand the school as exemplified by the extent of positive and affirming comments in this more nuanced style of reporting.
During the inspection, surveys were administered to pupils, parents, and staff. Many lessons were observed, and meetings were convened with pupils, staff, and governors. Exercise books underwent meticulous scrutiny, extracurricular activities were attended, assemblies were observed, and an extensive amount of documentation was thoroughly assessed. Additionally, supervision and safeguarding measures were closely scrutinised.
Key findings and highlights:
The leadership team enables pupils to succeed, including attaining places at their chosen senior schools.
Effective teaching informs and supports the pupils’ development of their physical and mental health and emotional wellbeing.
Pupils are well motivated and engaged in their learning, describing lessons as interactive and fun,
Leaders plan a curriculum that covers a range of subjects and is focused on developing pupils’ skills and knowledge to be successful at 11+.
Pupils are enthusiastic, polite, and thoughtful.
Leaders work together articulating their vision and strategy to realise the aims of the school.
Lively and engaging lessons in core subjects ensure that pupils’ mathematics and literacy skills are well developed.
Teachers use questioning skilfully, eliciting suggestions and developing pupils’ understanding.
The extensive choice of clubs provides pupils with opportunities to engage with different age groups, building tehri social skills and learning from others.
Teachers model the school’s values of ‘I Can and I Will’ by encouraging pupils to see making mistakes as helpful to learning.
Pupils are respectful, listen to one another, and are tolerant towards each other.
The school has strong links with groups in the local community, which encourages pupils to be caring citizens.
Please do take some time to read over the report which is testament to the brilliant things that take place here at Forest Park on a daily basis. Finally, thank you to the whole school for everything they are doing and will do to continue to make Forest Park the very special place to come to school for our pupils.
