Charlton House School celebrates outcome of ISI inspection

An overwhelmingly positive report has been published following an Independent Schools Inspectorate visit to Charlton House School in Bitterne Park.

It comes three years after the school was considered ‘inadequate’ during an Ofsted report. A follow up report in January 2023 found that Charlton House met all independent school standards.

(Image: Charly Woodhouse of CW Photography for Charlton House School) READ MORE: Boy, six, collects 2,600 tubs to save them from landfill

The latest report, which followed a two day December visit to the school for three to 11-year-olds, said: “Leaders are effective in supporting school development through a rigorous process of self-evaluation. They promote the school’s aims effectively and make its values central to pupils’ educational journeys. Pupils’ welfare is consistently championed and is supported by leaders’ clear understanding of pupils’ individual needs.

“Pupils including those who have special educational needs and / or disabilities, make good progress due to the effective implementation of the broad and balanced curriculum that is followed throughout the school.”

The report added that ‘pupils enjoy high levels of emotional wellbeing’.

(Image: Charly Woodhouse of CW Photography for Charlton House School) Pupils are also said to ‘experience a broad and well-planned curriculum’ and ‘achieve well and make good progress during their time at the school’. 

The report goes on to say ‘teachers know their subjects well’.

Lea Pay, who has been head teacher at the 43 pupil school for nearly two years, told the Daily Echo: “I am thrilled. The team and I have been working tirelessly to improve standards of education at Charlton House and in the past 18 months there has been a complete overhaul of our curriculum, including highly individualised teaching of core subjects, specialist teaching of foundation subjects, increased computing lessons and the addition of weekly forest and eco-schooling for all children.

“We have also updated and improved our assessment strategies for all subjects, allowing us to identify and address when children need further support or challenge quickly and efficiently.

“Such positive outcomes are a testament to the unwavering support from our parents and families, the enthusiasm and diligence of our pupils, and the relentless dedication of our teachers, support staff and governors. Together, we have cultivated a community that prioritises excellence, inclusivity, and the holistic development of each child.” 

(Image: Charly Woodhouse of CW Photography for Charlton House School)