In January 2026, Holmwood House was inspected by two independent bodies: the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) for Reception through to Year 11, and Ofsted for our Nursery and Preschool. We are delighted to share the results.
ISI Inspection for Reception to Year 11
Our ISI inspection was conducted under the new framework, which replaces single-word graded judgements with a more holistic, pupil-focused assessment of school culture and standards.
We are delighted to report that all Independent School Standards were met across every area inspected, including leadership and governance, education, safeguarding, and the physical and mental wellbeing of our pupils.
Inspectors were clear about the academic ambition at the heart of our school, stating that “leaders have high expectations for pupils’ academic progress.” This is reflected in the curriculum, which inspectors found “enables pupils to gain new knowledge as well as develop skills, such as reasoning and evaluation, that make them effective learners.” Teaching was praised as “well planned and appropriately paced, enabling pupils to build secure knowledge, apply prior learning and articulate their understanding across the curriculum.”
The character and conduct of our pupils were equally recognised. Inspectors noted that they “show high levels of kind and respectful behaviour” and “have a well-developed moral understanding, are respectful of diversity and are polite to each other.” Going further, the report observed that pupils “show empathy in their interactions with others, voluntarily helping and demonstrating politeness and manners.” Inspectors commented that “Leaders ensure that pupils’ wellbeing is at the heart of their decisions and actions.”, with the result that “pupils experience positive relationships and are confident in how they are valued and recognised at school.”
Ofsted EYFS Inspection for Nursery and Preschool
Our Nursery and Preschool were assessed under Ofsted’s new report card framework, which replaces a single overall judgement with separate graded areas. We are thrilled to have achieved the Strong Standard in six assessed areas.
The quality of our curriculum and teaching was highly praised, with inspectors finding that “The curriculum is ambitious, inclusive and accurately implemented, drawing on expert guidance and the strong understanding of child development demonstrated consistently by staff.” Teaching was described as providing “High-quality interactions extend children’s thinking, language and understanding across all seven areas of learning.”
The care and expertise of our Nursery team was evident throughout the report. Inspectors found that “staff know children very well, including their routines, health needs, preferences and family circumstances,” and that “nurturing interactions, predictable routines and attentive care help children to develop trust, resilience and self-confidence.” They commented that “Children make sustained progress, particularly in communication and language, and are very well prepared to transition successfully at each stage of their learning.”
Inspectors found that “leaders have a detailed, accurate understanding of each child and their individual needs and use this knowledge to ensure no child is overlooked” and “Leaders demonstrate a clear and sustained commitment to providing high-quality education and care that improves outcomes for all children.”
Full copies of both inspection reports are available to read below.
