Independent
October 2025
“Non-examined courses are a significant strength of the school.”
Welcome
We are delighted that the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) were so praiseworthy of Benenden following their inspection in October. Of course, we know Benenden is a wonderful school because we see it in action every day – but I’m somewhat biased, so ISI also formally recognising this level of excellence is a source of immense pride for us all!
We were especially pleased to be awarded a Significant Strength for the quality of our non-assessed curriculum.
A Significant Strength is a rare accolade that ISI only awards where a school sets itself apart from its peers in a particular area, and inspectors were enormously impressed by our innovative programmes such as the Electives, the CREATE Diploma and our Lower Fifth curriculum, which are truly preparing students for their futures and instilling in them a love of learning.
I hope you find this brochure useful in highlighting some of the ISI’s main findings. The full report is available on the Benenden website and I would encourage you to read it because it is a glowing summary of the strong community we are fortunate to have here at Benenden and of the success of our renowned model of A Complete Education.
With very best wishes
Rachel Bailey, Headmistress
Leadership
“Leaders fulfil their responsibilities and actively promote pupils’ wellbeing through strategic curriculum design and inclusive pastoral systems.”
“Leaders promote a collaborative, inclusive and aspirational culture in which pupils develop well academically, socially and personally.”
“Governors provide typically effective oversight and challenge, ensuring that the Standards are met consistently.”
“Boarding houses are led by compassionate and experienced staff who prioritise pupils’ wellbeing.”
“Leaders apply strategic insight and subject expertise to improve outcomes for pupils.”
Quality of Education
“Teaching is inclusive, well planned and responsive to pupils’ needs.”
“Teachers know their pupils well, use assessment effectively, and foster respectful, supportive classrooms where all contributions are valued.”
“Pupils engage in a broad range of co-curricular activities, fostering resilience and independence.”
“Pupils develop and practice these skills in academic lessons, co-curricular programmes and boarding experiences.”
“Pupils display enthusiasm for learning and demonstrate knowledge beyond the examined curriculum.”
“Lessons are structured and sequenced to promote pupils’ deeper understanding and help them make links between subjects.”
“Non-examined courses have substantially developed pupils’ academic curiosity and self-confidence.”
“These non-examined courses are a significant strength of the school.”
“British values are promoted through the curriculum and co-curricular activities.”
“The CREATE diploma develops collaboration, resilience, empathy, analytical thinking and leadership.”
“The curriculum is broad, balanced and ambitious.”
“Examination results for the school are above national averages, with an increase in the top grades at GCSE and A level over the previous two years.”
Wellbeing and Pastoral Care
“Behaviour is exemplary, supported by anti-bullying strategies embedded across the boarding and pastoral systems.”
“Relationships between pupils and staff are courteous and respectful.”
“Older pupils act as positive role models for younger pupils and help instil a moral compass and sense of accountability.”
“Day pupils are fully integrated into the boarding community.”
“Leadership opportunities across the school and boarding houses enable pupils to take responsibility and contribute positively to the community.”
“First aid provision includes 24-hour access to professional care through a team of nurses based in a well-equipped medical centre.”
“Boarders are provided with well-resourced, comfortable accommodation.”
Social Responsibility & Contribution to Society
“Sixth-form pupils contribute positively to the local area through weekly volunteering sessions.”
“The school’s careers provision from Years 7 to 13 is extensive.”
“Pupils’ participation in international exchanges helps foster their appreciation and understanding of different cultures.”
“The school develops pupils’ sense of social responsibility, tolerance and respect.”
“Leaders prepare pupils for life in wider society through a curriculum that builds respect for law and British institutions.”
“Pupils contribute to school life through leadership roles, food committees, fundraising and volunteering.”
“Pupils demonstrate a developed moral code and an understanding of right and wrong in respectful classroom discussions.”
“Activities such as mock elections, house councils and enterprise challenges help pupils understand democracy and real-world economic concepts.”
“Pupils receive comprehensive support for applications to university, apprenticeships and employment.”
“Economic education is integrated within the curriculum and enhanced through practical lessons on budgeting, savings and debt.”
“Leaders prepare pupils for life in wider society through a curriculum that builds respect for law and British institutions.”
Safeguarding
“A culture of the importance of safeguarding is embedded throughout the school.”
“Leaders and staff encourage pupils to feel safe and supported and provide them with clear reporting routes.”
“Pupils develop independence, self-esteem and confidence within a secure and nurturing environment.”
Independent Schools Inspectorate School Inspection Report October 2025