What an outstanding year for Oakhyrst Grange School, with its extensive programme of modernisation in full swing, pupils numbers at their highest since 2003 and a hugely successful ISI (Independent Schools Inspectorate) inspection. Indeed Oakhyrst’s Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) department has now received back-to-back ‘Outstanding’ Reports from Ofsted and the ISI – something that the Headmaster, Alex Gear, and the teachers, Mrs K. Brown, Mrs V. Munnery, Mrs L. Powell and their support staff are justifiably proud of.

The ISI inspectors considered many areas of school life to be excellent. Among many highlights, their comprehensive report made special mention of the pupils' continued high academic achievements across the entire curriculum, coupled with their impressive use of creative and independent enquiry. It was also noted that the success of the school also extends to its excellent and wide ranging list of co-curricular activities, with many of the pupils achieving high levels of success, both locally and nationally.

The report specifically praised the school’s excellent use of its outdoor space for learning and play, with the younger pupils being allowed to explore and develop the boundaries of their physical development.

The inspectors found that Oakhyrst provides a well-structured and stimulating curriculum, with particulary mention being made of its excellent integrated personal, social and health education (PHSE) programme. They also noted that many excellent opportunities exist at Oakhyrst Grange, all of which are delivered within a framework that nurtures the child.

Pupils were found to be confident, articulate and able to hold views of value. They were also found to have excellent moral and cultural awareness and a genuine kindness and tolerance towards their peers, members of staff and the general public.

The report also highlighted the excellent quality of the pastoral care and the attention given to the welfare of the pupils from the EYFS onwards, giving pupils a broad range of support from both the staff and older pupils.

Parents also played their part in the successful inspection. Many parents were more than willing to praise the standard of teaching, their children’s progress and level of achievement, the range of subjects taught, the worthwhile attitudes and values the school promotes and the high standard of behaviour. All of these factors were strongly cemented by the strong communication between the school and the parents.

While the Governors, Head and members of staff are justifiably proud of the conclusions of this latest inspection, as a team they are all also committed to maintaining these exceptionally high standards going forward. Coupled with a continuing dedication to every child’s pastoral care, the results of this year’s ISI Inspection suggest that Oakhyrst Grange School is set to continue its remarkable success story.