Wyciffe ISI Report

Wycliffe College in Stonehouse was praised by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) for its ‘profound understanding of individual needs’, its ‘enrichment curriculum and wide-ranging experiences’ and its ‘initiatives which develop essential skills’ which, inspectors said, ‘has a highly beneficial impact on pupils’ overall personal development’ and was a ‘significant strength’ of the school.

A ‘significant strength’, the highest accolade from the ISI, recognises an area of a school’s provision that demonstrates an exceptional, highly beneficial impact on pupils, and Wycliffe College is one of the only schools in the entire West and South West of the UK to have achieved such recognition.

Inspectors noted that the College “upholds high aspirations for all pupils” and that “pupils benefit from warm and caring relationships with adults, which help them to feel valued and essential to the school community”. They added that “pupils’ self-knowledge, empathy and courtesy are particularly well-developed”.

Christian San José, Wycliffe College Headmaster, said: “We are absolutely delighted by the findings of the ISI which, we know, fully reflect the unique character of our school. As the inspectors identified, we uphold high aspirations for all pupils whilst at the same time helping them to develop essential skills such as leadership, collaboration, responsibility and communication.”

“As well as our academic achievements, I am pleased that the inspectors highlighted our pupils’ particularly well-developed sense of self and the prioritisation of mutual respect and inclusivity, which is modelled daily by staff and older pupils.

“It is the soul and spirit of Wycliffe which sets us apart, and this inspection report really spells that out. I’d like to pay tribute to all the staff, as well as the pupils, for demonstrating why Wycliffe is such a special place.”

The ISI said Wycliffe’s well-sequenced and ambitious curriculum enabled pupils to develop their knowledge and understanding across a wide range of subjects, adding: “effective teaching and high-quality resources motivate pupils to learn and achieve well. Well-trained staff quickly identify the individual needs of pupils. The curriculum and teaching promote positive values that contribute towards the school’s inclusive culture.”

Inspectors also highlighted pupil wellbeing. They said: “Pupils understand and recognise the differences and similarities among themselves and others, ensuring that these distinctions do not have an impact on how individuals are treated. The pupil-led diversity, equality and inclusion group plays a pivotal role in fostering values of inclusivity within the school community.”

Mr San José added: “The world we are helping to prepare our pupils to enter is becoming ever-more challenging, complex and dynamic, and we are proud of the wonderfully diverse community, broad curriculum and superb co-curriculum that is helping those pupils prepare for life beyond Wycliffe.”