Haileybury celebrates 2025 inspection outcome

 The school met all standards under the inspection framework, and its academic and co-curricular enrichment programme was recognised as a significant strength, confirming the breadth and quality of the opportunities available to pupils.

The inspection covered every aspect of school life, including the quality of education, pastoral care and wellbeing, extra-curricular provision, pupils’ personal development, accommodation, health and safety, governance and leadership. Inspectors noted that this strong performance reflects the high quality of Haileybury’s provision and the rich experiences open to every pupil.

Motivated, ambitious and resilient pupils

The report placed particular emphasis on the pupils themselves, praising them as “motivated learners who engage productively with academic challenge.” It highlighted that pupils “demonstrate ambition, confidence and resilience,” qualities that underpin their success both in and beyond the classroom.

Inspectors also commended the school’s ethos, noting that “the school’s ethos centres around the values of respect, inclusion and mutual understanding.” This culture, they observed, supports positive relationships across the community and helps pupils to thrive academically, socially and personally.

Academic excellence and enrichment

In its key findings on academic and other achievements, the report described Haileybury’s curriculum as “broad and balanced, offering pupils a wide range of academic and creative opportunities.” Teachers were recognised as “enthusiastic” and praised for using strong subject knowledge to plan well-structured lessons that engage and challenge pupils.

The school’s enrichment offer was singled out for particular praise. Inspectors noted that “the school provides pupils with an array of opportunities for academic enrichment, such as collaboration with international universities on genetic mutation, sending satellites into space and developing robots for entry into a global competition.” They also highlighted that leaders have “integrated a programme of relevant educational visits for pupils, both locally and internationally, that enriches the curriculum.”

Personal development, community and co-curricular life

The inspection confirmed that pupils’ personal development is a key strength of Haileybury. The report states that “pupils behave well and take ownership of their actions” and that they benefit from “many opportunities for outdoor activity, including sport,” ensuring that “there are pursuits and experiences for everyone.”

Social and cultural awareness were also praised. Inspectors reported that “pupils’ social and cultural awareness is enriched through community service, charity work and cultural events,” adding that pupils “volunteer to help others, show compassion and develop curiosity about the wider world.” This reflects the school’s commitment to forming well-rounded young people who contribute positively to their communities.

Co-curricular programme a ‘significant strength’

Haileybury’s extensive co-curricular and enrichment programme was a standout feature of the report. Inspectors concluded that “the co-curricular and academic enrichment programme is a significant strength of the school,” emphasising that it is “extensive and inclusive, providing for a wide range of pupils’ interests and for all performance levels.”

The programme spans “an array of sports, outdoor education, which includes adventurous activity, drama, music and university-level research,” ensuring that pupils can develop their talents, discover new interests and challenge themselves in a supportive environment. This recognition from the ISI affirms Haileybury’s strategic focus on providing a holistic education that balances academic rigour with breadth of experience.

The full report is available to read below: