Bedford Girls' School

Bedford Girls' School is an independent day school for female pupils aged 7 to 18, overseen by a board of governors, primarily trustees of the Harpur Trust. The school consists of three departments: the junior school for ages 7 to 11, the senior school for ages 11 to 16, and the sixth form for ages 16 to 18. Located on the banks of the Great Ouse, the school was established through the merger of two Harpur Trust schools, with the junior school opening in 2010, the senior school in 2011, and the sixth form in 2012. Since the last inspection, the school has refurbished its science department.

The school aims for excellence in all its endeavors, supporting and challenging pupils to develop into self-assured, open-minded thinkers who aspire to make a positive impact on the world. Most pupils come from professional backgrounds, with their abilities generally above average compared to national standards. The school has identified 25 pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, including dyslexia and autism spectrum disorder, and provides necessary support. Additionally, 37 pupils speak English as an additional language, with some requiring specialist assistance.

The regulatory compliance inspection conducted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate confirmed that Bedford Girls' School meets the standards set by the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014. The inspection focused on various aspects, including the quality of education, spiritual and moral development, welfare and safety, staff suitability, premises, information provision, complaints handling, and leadership quality. The school was found to have effective measures in place for safeguarding, promoting good behavior, preventing bullying, and ensuring health and safety. The school maintains appropriate records and has a strategic approach to risk assessment.

In terms of educational quality, the school employs its own framework for assessing attainment in the junior school, while performance at GCSE and A-level has consistently exceeded national averages for maintained schools. The curriculum is well-documented and supported by appropriate plans, enabling pupils to make good progress. The teaching is effective, with suitable resources and a framework for assessing performance in place.

The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted, fostering responsible and tolerant citizens. The school encourages pupils to engage in community service and understand diverse cultures, contributing to a respectful and inclusive environment. The welfare, health, and safety of pupils are prioritized, with arrangements in place for first aid and proper supervision.

The school ensures the suitability of staff through appropriate checks and maintains a register as required. The premises are well-maintained, providing suitable facilities for pupils' medical and therapy needs, and outdoor spaces 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 admissions and behavior.

Complaints are handled effectively through a structured process, with clear time scales and records maintained. The leadership and management demonstrate good skills and knowledge, ensuring that standards are consistently met and promoting the well-being of pupils.

The educational quality inspection highlighted the excellent academic achievements of pupils, who exhibit outstanding attitudes towards learning. They actively engage in their studies and extracurricular activities, demonstrating strong communication skills and the ability to analyze complex information. Pupils excel in various sports, creative endeavors, and academic competitions, showcasing their well-rounded development.

The personal development of pupils is also excellent, with a strong sense of community and respect for diversity. They actively contribute to the school and wider society, demonstrating moral awareness and social responsibility. Pupils are encouraged to reflect on their actions and show compassion towards others, fostering a positive school culture.

Pupils are well-prepared for future challenges, with effective transition programs and pastoral care in place. They develop essential life skills and are supported in their academic pursuits, leading to high expectations and successful outcomes. The school emphasizes the importance of mental and physical well-being, providing resources and support for pupils to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Overall, Bedford Girls' School is committed to providing a high-quality education that nurtures the academic, personal, and social development of its pupils. The school fosters an environment where students can thrive, develop confidence, and prepare for their future endeavors, ensuring they are well-equipped to face the challenges of the wider world.