Unless you’ve been hiding under a rock, you’ll know this week has been a busy one for us here at Banstead Prep. Our ISI (Independent Schools Inspectorate) inspection week has come and gone, leaving us proud, reflective, and a little in awe of what we’ve achieved as a school community.
We’ve always known that Banstead Prep is a fantastic school – it’s in our ethos, our daily practice and the smiles of the children. But there’s something uniquely challenging about having to prove your greatness to an outside audience. As much as the inspectors aim to see the school running “as normal,” the reality is that much work goes into ensuring they gather all the information they need to write their reports.
In a week where our magical Learning Powers have been in the spotlight, this week – as is so often the ironic case – adaptability was the star of the show. Both staff and children rose to the occasion, demonstrating resilience and flexibility in the face of a slightly altered routine. Timetables were adjusted to accommodate lesson observations, and an impromptu assembly was crafted to meet inspection requirements, even though one wasn’t originally planned.
For teachers, the challenge was twofold: not only did they need to continue their usual brilliant work in the classroom, but they also had to articulate why it’s so amazing – something that doesn’t always come naturally to our modest, hardworking staff! The spotlight required them to embrace the art of self-promotion, and they did so with grace and humility.
Behind the scenes school inspections fundamentally hinge on whether you meet all the required standards to be compliant or not! If you are not, then you have big issues and if you are, then you get the chance to celebrate why and what you are doing so well. I am delighted to share that we are, and we will share with you our report as soon as we can. Thank you to the site team, all the admin team and the SLT for the huge impact they have had this week.
And finally, the children, as always, were exemplary. They displayed their learning, teamwork and community spirit effortlessly. Watching them interact, support one another and showcase their talents reminded us why we do what we do. It was wonderful to see and read that their incredible character was recognised and celebrated and that everyone in the school was very proudly free to be themselves!
We are exhausted but beyond proud… have a lovely weekend.
