DUNHURST PUPILS 'LOVE COMING TO SCHOOL'
About Bedales
Dunhurst Pupils 'Love Coming to School'
19/04/2010
Bedales Junior School, Dunhurst provides a "stimulating and exciting environment where individual talents are discovered and encouraged" and where pupils "love coming to school", according to independent school inspectors.
The Independent School Inspectorate (ISI) has published its report having visited Dunhurst to carry out a detailed inspection of the school which included lesson observations, interviews with pupils, staff and governors, and questionnaires for pupils and parents.
Commended in the inspection report for her "tireless drive and commitment to the highest possible standards", Dunhurst Head Penny Watkins said:
"I am delighted that this inspection has recognised the true value of a Dunhurst education. A broad and challenging curriculum provides great opportunities for our pupils to develop their independent thinking, initiative and creativity."
"I would like to pay tribute to Dunhurst pupils, parents and staff for embracing so strongly the ideals of the school’s founder in fostering such a positive, innovative and enjoyable learning environment."
"We are keen to use the findings of the inspection report to build on our strengths and continue the drive for improvement."
Dunhurst, together with Dunannie, the pre-preparatory school and the senior school form the Bedales Schools, were founded by John Badley in 1893. Dunannie welcomes its new Head Jo Webbern into post this week. She brings significant experience from Ibstock Place, a Froebel school in Roehampton, where she was head of the lower junior school and kindergarten.
Download a full copy of the inspection report.
Inspection process
The ISI inspects schools according to a standard framework for inspection which it has laid down for the purposes of ensuring that standards are maintained and that the school complies with relevant legal requirements. This framework has been agreed with the Department for Children, Schools and Families, which has recognised the ISI as the body responsible for the regular inspection of schools in England which are affiliated to the Independent Schools Council. More information is available on the ISI website.
