Brighton and Hove High School

Brighton Girls is an independent day school for girls aged three to eighteen, including a co-educational Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). Established in 1876, the school is part of the Girls Day School Trust, which oversees its operations through a council, complemented by a local advisory governing body. The school consists of a prep school that incorporates the EYFS and a senior school that includes a sixth form. Since the last inspection, significant refurbishments have been made to both schools, including the establishment of a design hub.

The school aims to foster an environment where students are fully supported to excel academically and socially, discover their character, strengths, and interests, and make a meaningful impact in the world. The student body is diverse, with most pupils residing within a 20-mile radius of the school. Nationally standardized test data indicates that the pupils' abilities are above average in both the prep and senior schools. The school has identified 85 pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), including dyslexia and anxiety, who receive support within lessons and through one-on-one assistance. Additionally, there are 12 pupils for whom English is an additional language (EAL), receiving tailored support as needed. The curriculum is modified for 72 pupils identified as the most able, ensuring they are challenged both within and outside lessons.

The regulatory compliance inspection, conducted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI), assesses whether the school meets the Independent School Standards. The inspection confirmed that Brighton Girls meets all standards outlined in the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014, as well as the requirements of the statutory framework for the EYFS. The inspection also evaluated the school's compliance with safeguarding regulations, health and safety measures, and the suitability of staff, among other areas.

In terms of educational quality, the school has demonstrated excellent academic achievements. In the prep school, attainment is measured using nationally standardized tests, with results consistently above the national average for maintained schools from 2016 to 2018. At the GCSE level, performance has also exceeded national averages during the same period. A-level results in the sixth form have similarly been above the national average for maintained schools. The curriculum is well-documented and supported by appropriate plans and schemes of work, enabling pupils to make good progress. The teaching is characterized by effective behavior management and suitable resources, with a robust framework for assessing pupil performance in place.

The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted, fostering responsible and tolerant citizens. The school emphasizes the importance of personal development, and the standards related to this area are met. Arrangements for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils are in place, ensuring good behavior is encouraged and bullying is effectively prevented. Health and safety requirements are met, including fire safety provisions, and first aid is adequately provided.

The school maintains appropriate checks to ensure the suitability of staff, supply staff, and proprietors, with a register kept 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 exclusions.

Parental complaints are handled effectively through a structured three-stage process, ensuring clear timelines and appropriate record-keeping. 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 the excellent quality of pupils' academic and personal achievements. Progress made by pupils, including those with SEND and EAL, is exceptional, supported by high-quality teaching that encourages higher-order thinking skills. Pupils exhibit high standards in their approach to learning, developing excellent linguistic and communication skills. The quality of personal development is also rated as excellent, with pupils demonstrating confidence, self-esteem, and respect for one another.

The school encourages pupils to engage with the local community and develop their ICT skills more effectively in lessons, particularly in the sixth form. The quality of pupils' academic achievements is consistently high, with evidence from external examinations, lesson observations, and pupil interviews indicating that a large majority of pupils achieve excellent standards across the curriculum. In the EYFS, children make very good progress, with most exceeding the Early Learning Goals by the end of Reception.

Pupils' attitudes towards learning are commendable, with a genuine desire to succeed and high expectations of themselves. They actively participate in discussions and collaborate effectively in group activities. The school provides a suitable range of extracurricular activities that help develop pupils' character and interests, with notable successes in various competitions and awards.

Pupils demonstrate a strong understanding of the importance of staying safe, both online and offline, through a well-structured PSHE program. They are aware of the significance of a healthy lifestyle and hygiene standards, particularly in food and nutrition lessons. The school fosters a culture of respect and understanding for diverse cultures and beliefs, encouraging pupils to engage in thoughtful discussions about contemporary issues.

Overall, Brighton Girls provides a supportive and enriching environment that promotes academic excellence, personal development, and social responsibility. The school's commitment to high standards in education and the well-being of its pupils is evident in its comprehensive approach to teaching, leadership, and community engagement. The positive relationships among pupils, staff, and the wider community contribute to a vibrant school culture that prepares students for future success.