The View from My Study 21 March 2025

The Sun has been shining, the birds have been singing, Spring has sprung and the inspectors have been inspecting. What a glorious week!

Facing an inspection as a teacher induces a range of emotions. From the initial sense of worry that everything is in place, to the reluctance of having strangers invade our classroom; and then the complete transition into actually being annoyed when the inspectors don’t come in to see our amazing lesson alongside the sense of pride at showing off our wonderful school. And there really has been exuberant pride in the school, not just on show from staff but from the children too.

It will be approximately 30 days before the report is published. ISI protocol prevents me from saying too much at this stage but I can say that I am very proud to be Head of Bilton Grange and I am pleased that ISI have visited to scrutinise the school so thoroughly; it is important that they do.

One of the things that struck a positive chord with the inspectors was the sense of community and this was beautifully and colourfully illustrated on Wednesday and yesterday with the World Culture and Languages events for the Pre-Prep and Prep. The children engaged so well with the unusual learning opportunities and the sense of fun and camaraderie during the final parade was brilliant to see.