Queen Ethelburga's Shines in Recent ISI Inspection
Queen Ethelburga's (QE) has once again demonstrated its exceptional standards of education and care, achieving glowing results in its recent ISI inspection.
The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) assessed QE under its updated framework, which evaluates schools across five key areas without issuing traditional graded judgments. QE proudly met all standards in these critical areas, cementing its reputation as a leading independent school.
ISI Inspection Results: Meeting All Five Areas of Assessment
The ISI inspection highlighted QE’s excellence in the following five areas of assessment:
- Leadership and Management, and Governance
- Quality of Education, Training, and Recreation
- Pupils’ Physical and Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing
- Pupils’ Social and Economic Education and Contribution to Society
- Safeguarding
Furthermore, the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) provision, encompassing Explorers Nursery, retained its outstanding rating. The EYFS inspection commended the school for its overall effectiveness, quality of education, leadership, and robust safeguarding practices.
Highlights of the ISI Inspection
The ISI report is a testament to the school’s commitment to providing an exceptional educational experience. Key findings across various areas include:
Leadership and Management, and Governance
- The school’s strong leadership structure ensures effective oversight, enabling students to achieve their full potential.
- A focus on promoting student wellbeing through leadership opportunities fosters confidence and self-esteem.
- The EYFS curriculum is well-planned, supported by effective staff guidance.
Quality of Education, Training, and Recreation
- Teachers possess excellent subject knowledge, delivering engaging lessons that inspire learning.
- A well-rounded curriculum supports students in developing communication and critical thinking skills.
- QE’s extensive co-curricular programme nurtures skills beyond the classroom, promoting personal growth.
Pupils’ Physical and Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing
- QE prioritises mental health and fosters positive relationships among students and staff.
- Pupils benefit from a supportive environment where their needs and ideas are valued.
Pupils’ Social and Economic Education and Contribution to Society
- QE ensures students are equipped with the skills needed for future success, whether in higher education or competitive careers.
- A diverse and inclusive community helps students learn about other cultures, faiths, and global perspectives.
Safeguarding
- Robust safeguarding processes, thorough staff training, and proactive governance ensure student safety and compliance with regulatory standards.
Continued School Excellence
This inspection follows QE’s excellent rating under the previous ISI framework in 2019. The school has continued to build on its strengths, evidenced by its strong academic and extracurricular achievements.
In 2023, QE College placed 2nd nationally for A-Level performance in The Sunday Times Parent Power league tables. This accomplishment reflects the school’s commitment to both academic success and holistic student development.
Experience Queen Ethelburga’s
Queen Ethelburga’s offers a co-educational, independent day and boarding school experience for children aged 3 months to 18 years. To explore what makes QE one of the top independent schools in the UK, attend an Open Day or schedule a private tour.
Discover how Queen Ethelburga’s can provide your child with an exceptional education and prepare them for a bright future.
For full details of the ISI inspection reports, click the links below:
College Inspection Report Faculty Inspection Report
This comprehensive ISI inspection underscores Queen Ethelburga’s unwavering dedication to excellence in education, wellbeing, and safeguarding, making it a top choice for families seeking the best for their children.
Please note that the Faculty has merged with QE College as of September 2025. We continue to provide an outstanding education, offering students a broad range of subjects in GCSE, A Level and BTEC.
