St Christopher's School

St. Christopher’s School is a non-denominational independent day school for female pupils, established in 1883 and becoming a charitable trust in 1972. Located in a large Victorian house in a quiet residential area of Hampstead, the school caters to pupils aged 4 to 11 years, divided into Reception and Junior departments. The governance of the school is overseen by a board of trustees who also serve as the board of governors. Since the last inspection, the school has appointed a new head and chair of governors. The inspection took into account the challenges faced by schools during the COVID-19 pandemic and the restrictions imposed by government guidance.

The school aims to achieve high academic standards while fostering independent learning in a stimulating, child-centered environment. It seeks to inspire and challenge pupils, ensuring that creativity is integrated throughout the curriculum. The school promotes an atmosphere of respect, freedom of thought, and intellectual ambition, aiming to develop inclusive, courageous, and principled young people who are ready to embrace challenges and become change-makers.

The majority of pupils come from families with business or professional backgrounds within a five-mile radius of the school. Standardized test data indicates that the pupils' abilities are above average compared to national benchmarks. The school has identified 14 pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, all of whom receive specialist support. Additionally, 81 pupils speak English as an additional language, with 14 receiving extra support. The school also recognizes 34 pupils as the most able and modifies the curriculum to cater to their talents in various areas, including art, sport, and music.

The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) conducted a focused compliance inspection combined with an educational quality inspection. The ISI is approved by the Secretary of State to inspect schools that are members of the Independent Schools Council. The inspection assesses compliance with the Independent School Standards and the Early Years Foundation Stage statutory framework. The focused compliance inspection specifically examined standards related to safeguarding, health and safety, staff suitability, information provision, complaints handling, and leadership and management.

The key findings from the compliance inspection indicate that the school meets all the standards set forth in the regulations, with no further action required. The quality of education provided is assessed as good, with teaching enabling pupils to make good progress. The curriculum is well-documented and supported by appropriate plans and resources, covering the required breadth of material. The school provides relationships education and has consulted parents to publish a written policy in line with statutory guidance.

The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted, facilitating their growth as responsible and tolerant citizens. The welfare, health, and safety of pupils are prioritized, with arrangements in place to safeguard and promote their well-being. The school meets health and safety requirements, including fire safety, and provides adequate first aid provisions. The school maintains proper supervision of pupils and keeps accurate admission and attendance registers.

The school conducts appropriate checks to ensure the suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors, maintaining a register as required. The premises are well-maintained, providing suitable facilities for pupils' medical and therapy needs, and ensuring adequate outdoor space for physical education and play. A range of information is published and made available to parents, including details about the school's ethos, curriculum, and arrangements for admission, behavior, and health and safety.

Parental complaints are handled effectively through a clear three-stage process, with records kept appropriately. The leadership and management of the school demonstrate good skills and knowledge, fulfilling their responsibilities effectively and promoting the well-being of pupils.

The educational quality inspection focuses on the achievement of pupils and their personal development. The quality of pupils' academic and other achievements is deemed excellent. Pupils are high achievers, succeeding academically and in a wide range of co-curricular activities. They demonstrate highly developed communication skills and possess a strong base of knowledge, skills, and understanding. Pupils display exemplary attitudes towards their learning, working successfully both individually and collaboratively.

The personal development of pupils is also rated as excellent. They are self-confident, self-disciplined, and resilient, demonstrating a mature approach to decision-making. Pupils are sensitive to the feelings of others and appreciate the non-material aspects of life. They are kind, respectful, and tolerant, valuing each other and working together with a sense of purpose and enjoyment.

The school is encouraged to strengthen pupils' awareness of the creative possibilities of modern technology and their skills in applying these. The quality of pupils' academic achievements reflects the school's aim to provide an inspirational educational experience, equipping them with the confidence and life skills needed for future success. Over the years, nearly all pupils have gained places at highly selective senior schools, with a significant percentage achieving scholarships and exhibition awards.

Pupils eagerly participate in the school's co-curricular program, developing resilience and confidence through various activities designed to enhance their academic curriculum. They engage in a wide range of clubs, including modern foreign languages, sports, drama, music, and STEAM activities, which foster critical thinking and creativity. Pupils demonstrate high levels of competence in their use of information and communication technology, applying their skills effectively across subjects.

Throughout the school, pupils exhibit exemplary attitudes towards their learning, approaching their studies with commitment and resilience. They take ownership of their work and are proud of their achievements, supported by a teaching approach that instills a love of learning. The school promotes a strong sense of community, where pupils understand the importance of making responsible decisions and leading healthy lives.

Pupils display a strong appreciation for diversity and inclusivity, understanding the significance of respecting others and celebrating individual uniqueness. They actively participate in discussions about moral choices and demonstrate high levels of social awareness, supporting one another and contributing positively to the school environment.

In summary, St. Christopher’s School provides a nurturing and challenging educational environment that fosters academic excellence and personal development. The school meets all regulatory compliance standards and is committed to promoting the well-being of its pupils while preparing them for future success.