Berkhamsted School is delighted to announce that, following a recent inspection of Berkhamsted Boys, Girls, and Sixth, we were identified as having a “significant strength” in our use of ICT for teaching and learning.
This is a fantastic achievement which recognises ICT as having a highly beneficial impact on pupils. Currently, only about 11% of schools inspected receive an area of significant strength.
The inspection report provides extremely positive feedback about the pupils, the staff and the culture of the School. Thanks to the hard work and dedication of our community, our core values of aiming high with integrity, being adventurous and serving others are duly recognised and praised throughout the report. We were assessed across a range of areas and were found to meet standards across the board.
Academic
We offer a broad and balanced curriculum which offers opportunities for pupils to develop a range of skills across different academic disciplines. Teachers plan engaging lessons in which pupils are encouraged to develop their subject knowledge, independence and intellectual curiosity. Pupils with EAL and SEND are well supported and benefit from additional provisions, making good progress as a result. Pupils achieve highly in public examinations.
Wellbeing
We have a strong programme of personal development through tutor time, chapel services and a PSHE curriculum which strengthens pupils’ self-esteem and self-confidence. Pupils enjoy the many opportunities for physical exercise offered by our curriculum and extra-curricular activities. The relationships between pupils and teachers are positive, constructive and trusting, which supports both academic learning and pastoral support.
Behaviour
We have high standards of behaviour and pupils treat one another with courtesy and respect. Bullying incidents are rare and effectively managed, and pupils understand the negative impacts of bullying. Pupils are taught to develop appreciation and respect for one another’s religions and cultures, which promotes tolerance and understanding throughout the School.
EdTech
Teachers use technology to enhance lessons, provide resources for independent study, share plans and monitor pupils’ performance in detail. The embedded use of technology enhances pupils’ learning and digital skills, which helps to prepare them well for their future lives. The use of ICT in teaching and learning is a significant strength of the School.
Preparation for life beyond school
We successfully promote the aims of the school (Aim High with Integrity, Be Adventurous and Serve Others). Our curriculum promotes pupils’ understanding and appreciation of British values, and prepares them for their responsibilities in society. Careers advice is provided throughout the School and pupils are well supported in making decisions about their next steps. Pupils benefit from a comprehensive range of external speakers and use of our careers advisor. We offer a range of leadership opportunities which are highly effective in preparing pupils for life beyond school and emphasise the importance of contributing positively to the local community. Pupils are well informed and develop critical thinking skills in preparation for their future lives.
Safeguarding
We undertake safeguarding practices rigorously and staff understand the School’s procedures for reporting concerns. Pupils are well informed about how to keep themselves safe, including when online. Pupils are aware of the systems in place and who they should go to should they wish to share any concerns.
Boarding
Our boarding environment is welcoming and supporting, and successful in fostering pupils’ personal development. Boarders enjoy the cultural opportunities that boarding gives them through celebrating national days from a variety of different countries represented in the community. Boarders clearly understand the importance of responsibility and identify positive traits in older pupils who they see as role models. The wellbeing of boarders is a priority.
We are incredibly proud to receive such an outstanding report that recognises all the ways in which staff and pupils embody our values day to day. All our Schools have now received an area of significant strength, totalling three significant strengths across the Schools Group.
Inspectors identified our research-led teaching to be a significant strength of Berkhamsted Pre-Prep and Prep, while Heatherton’s significant strength was the development of pupils’ vocabulary. With the use of ICT highlighted in our Senior School, we are delighted to be recognised as leaders across such a range of educational disciplines.
We extend our gratitude to all the parents and pupils who provided feedback to the inspectors, and congratulate our whole community on achieving such an incredible feat. As we celebrate the results of this report, we are celebrating every member of our School who contributes to the remarkable culture it describes.
You can read all our reports on our website https://www.berkhamsted.com/about/reviews/