Brackenfield School in Harrogate has met all required standards in its latest inspection, with praise for its teaching, pupil wellbeing and caring culture.
Three inspectors from the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) visited the school from 30th June to 2nd July.
They assessed five areas, including leadership, education, pupils’ wellbeing, their contribution to society and safeguarding.
The school met the standards in every area.
The report said:
“Teaching is well planned and tailored to meet pupils’ needs. Pupils enjoy their learning and act on the helpful guidance and feedback for improvement given by teachers.
"They make good progress and are well prepared to transition to secondary school by the end of Year 6.”
Inspectors found that “leaders promote and prioritise the emotional and physical wellbeing of pupils” and that, as a result, “pupils are confident and behave well.”
They added that “the school’s values are central to its culture and help bind the community together.”
In Early Years, the report highlighted how “warm and positive relationships with staff help children to settle quickly, feel safe and secure, and develop confidence and independence.”
Older pupils were found to benefit from “a broad and stimulating range of co-curricular activities”, including debating, gymnastics and the choir’s annual performance at Ripon Cathedral.
The report also recognised pupils’ involvement in the community through care home visits, charity fundraising and litter picks. Safeguarding arrangements were found to be effective.
Brackenfield was rated ‘Excellent’ at its previous ISI inspection in June 2023.
The inspectorate has since introduced a framework which no longer awards graded judgements, instead reporting on whether schools meet the required standards.
Headmaster Joe Masterson said:
“I am delighted with this report. It reflects what I see every day at Brackenfield: children who are happy, confident and keen to learn, and staff who know each of them well.
“Our last inspection rated us ‘Excellent’. The way schools are inspected has changed since then, but it is very pleasing to see the inspectors recognise the same strengths – well-planned teaching, a caring community, and pupils who leave us well prepared for their senior schools.
“Thank you to our staff, pupils and families. This is their result, and a great way to begin the countdown to our 50th anniversary.”
Mr Masterson will step down at the end of December after six years as Headmaster.
He is working alongside Interim Head Philip Soutar, who joined in September, to ensure a smooth handover.
Mr Soutar said:
“This is a very positive report, and it is a credit to Joe, the staff and the whole Brackenfield community.
"I have seen for myself how well the children are taught and cared for here.
“It gives us a strong base to build on as we look ahead to the school's 50th anniversary next year.”
Brackenfield will celebrate 50 years of educating children from Harrogate and the surrounding area in 2027.
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