The Red Maids' School

Redmaids’ High School, an independent day school for female pupils located in Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol, has a rich history dating back to 1634. The school was formed in 2016 through the merger of The Red Maids’ School and Redland High School and is governed by a dedicated body. It comprises a junior school, a senior school, and a sixth form, with each section led by its own headteacher while maintaining close collaboration. The current headteacher of the senior school was appointed in 2020. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the school adapted by providing remote learning materials and remained open only for children of key workers during certain periods.

The school aims to empower every pupil to achieve success as they define it, fostering a culture of high aspirations and collaboration. It seeks to instill confidence in students, preparing them to contribute meaningfully to the wider world. Most pupils come from professional families in the local area, and the school has identified a number of students with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), providing additional support where necessary. The school also accommodates pupils for whom English is an additional language (EAL).

The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) conducted a focused compliance inspection combined with an educational quality inspection. The inspection assessed the school’s adherence to the Independent School Standards and evaluated the quality of education provided. The key findings indicated that the school meets all the standards set forth in the regulations, with no further action required. The quality of education provided is characterized by effective teaching that enables pupils to make good progress across all year groups.

In the junior school, the assessment framework confirms that teaching facilitates good progress, while GCSE performance from 2019 to 2021 further supports this finding. In the sixth form, A-level and International Baccalaureate (IB) results also demonstrate that pupils are making good progress. The curriculum is well-documented and supported by appropriate plans and schemes of work, ensuring a breadth of material that meets educational requirements. The school provides relationships education in the junior school and relationships and sex education in the senior school, with parental consultation and published policies in place.

The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted, fostering responsible and tolerant citizens. The school has established arrangements to safeguard and promote the welfare of pupils, ensuring good behavior and preventing bullying. Health and safety requirements are met, and appropriate supervision and first aid provisions are in place. The school maintains accurate admission and attendance registers and has a strategic approach to risk assessment.

The school conducts thorough 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. A range of information is published and made available to parents, including details about the school’s ethos, curriculum, and arrangements for admission and behavior.

Parental complaints are handled effectively through a structured process, with clear time scales and 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 highlighted that the quality of pupils’ academic and other achievements is excellent. Pupils exhibit a high level of knowledge, skills, and understanding, making excellent progress in their learning. They are effective independent and collaborative learners, with strong skills in information and communication technology (ICT) seamlessly integrated into their work. Pupils communicate articulately, both orally and in writing, and display excellent personal development, characterized by self-confidence, self-discipline, and a strong sense of responsibility.

The school encourages pupils to lead healthy lives, both physically and emotionally, and fosters a clear moral code. Pupils engage fully with school life, contributing positively to their community. Recommendations for improvement include enabling pupils to gain a stronger understanding of their role in the world and how they can contribute to the wider community.

Pupils achieve high standards of results, exceeding predictions from standardized assessments. A significant percentage of A-level entries are graded A* or A, and a high proportion of GCSE grades are awarded at the top levels. The school’s strong academic performance is reflected in the success of its pupils, many of whom progress to higher education, including prestigious Russell Group universities.

Pupils demonstrate eagerness to learn and contribute to class discussions, showcasing their strong creative skills across subjects. They are highly articulate and effective communicators, benefiting from detailed feedback that supports their progress. The school’s management of ICT enhances learning, with pupils displaying excellent numeracy skills and applying mathematical knowledge across various subjects.

The study skills of pupils are well-developed, supported by specific lessons on purposeful studying. Pupils are encouraged to work independently and collaboratively, demonstrating advanced thinking and research skills. They actively participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities, achieving success in sports, music, and drama, reflecting their commitment and talent.

Pupils exhibit outstanding attitudes towards learning, taking their education seriously while enjoying the process. They support each other and contribute to a positive learning environment. The school’s culture promotes mutual respect, support, and kindness, fostering a collaborative atmosphere where pupils work together effectively.

Pupils are committed to supporting one another and engage in charitable work, demonstrating empathy and a sense of responsibility towards their community. They celebrate diversity and show respect for different beliefs and values, engaging in discussions about social issues with maturity and understanding.

Overall, Redmaids’ High School provides a nurturing and empowering environment for its pupils, promoting academic excellence and personal development while fostering a strong sense of community and responsibility. The school’s commitment to high standards and continuous improvement is evident in its practices and the achievements of its pupils.