Ackworth School has achieved an outstanding result in the recent Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) inspection. The school received the highest possible rating of “excellent” in all areas, which include pupils’ achievements, as well as their academic and personal development.
The ISI inspection is a rigorous process that evaluates all aspects of a school’s performance. Inspectors examine the school’s curriculum, teaching standards, extracurricular activities, pastoral care, and overall management to determine its effectiveness in delivering a high-quality education.
The “excellent” rating is the highest possible grade awarded by the ISI, and it reflects the school’s commitment to providing outstanding educational opportunities for its students. Ackworth School has demonstrated exceptional teaching, excellent support for student wellbeing, and strong leadership at all levels.
The inspectors were impressed with how pupils progress across our nursery, Coram House, and Senior School, as well as within our dedicated Autism Resource. They also commented on the wide range of community and volunteering activity that Ackworth School delivers within our local area.
In response to the inspection Ackworth School’s Head Anton Maree said, “We are delighted to have received an ‘excellent’ rating in all areas from the ISI. This inspection confirms what we have all known since our last full inspection, that Ackworth is an excellent small school that produces thoughtful and mature students who go on to do well beyond school. This is the result of the hard work and dedication of our staff, students, and parents, who have all played a vital role in our success. We are committed to providing our students with the best possible education, and we will continue to work tirelessly to maintain these high standards.”
The school’s governors (the School Committee) expressed their delight at the outcome of the inspection: “We are heartened by this public recognition of the quality of life at Ackworth School for all our students and staff. The ‘excellent’ rating is a deserved tribute to the hard work and dedication shown by so many in the school community over a number of years. We commit ourselves to building on this success by ensuring that Ackworth School continues to provide an outstanding environment for learning and teaching and well-being as we approach our 250th anniversary.”
Ackworth School is particularly pleased that the comments and feedback within the ISI report aligns with the school’s vision for education and reflects our Quaker ethos.
The ISI commented that:
The quality of the pupils’ academic and other achievements is excellent. All pupils, including those with SEND and EAL, make rapid progress in their learning throughout the school.
Pupils throughout the school demonstrate excellent self-discipline and resilience in all aspects of their school lives. The spirituality awareness of the pupils is highly developed.
Pupils make excellent contributions to the lives of others in the school, particularly within the boarding community and to society more broadly.
Pupils deeply respect and show strong appreciation of the diverse nature of the school community, this is especially embedded in the boarding environment.
The full inspection report is now available to view and download on the Ackworth School website at https://ackworthschool.com/about-us/inspection-reports/.
If you are interested in applying for a place at Ackworth School, please contact the admissions team on 01977 233621 or admissions@ackworthschool.com
For more information, please contact James Busson, Director of Marketing, Admissions and Communications on 01977 233620 or james.busson@ackworthschool.com.
About Ackworth School
Ackworth School is a co-educational independent school located in the village of Ackworth, West Yorkshire, England. The school was founded in 1779 by the Religious Society of Friends, also known as Quakers, and it remains a Quaker school to this day.
Ackworth School has a long history of providing a high-quality education for its students, and it is known for its emphasis on academic excellence, personal development, and social responsibility. The school offers both day and boarding options for students aged 2.5 – 18, and it is known for its inclusive and supportive community.
The school’s curriculum includes a wide range of subjects, including the sciences, humanities, arts, and languages. Students are also encouraged to take part in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, drama, and community service.
Ackworth School places a strong emphasis on Quaker values, which include simplicity, equality, truth, and peace. These values are reflected in the school’s culture and ethos, and they are an essential part of the school’s identity.