2024 ISI Inspection Report Highlights
Exeter School
Boys and girls aged 7-18
A School of Great Character
Introduction
We were very happy to open our doors to an inspection team from the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) in early November 2024. It is a pleasure to be able to share with visitors the strengths of an Exonian education, and for our pupils to share what they love about school with the inspection team. On this occasion, once again, we were delighted with the outcome – the personal development of our pupils, supported by our explicit character education programme based on Aristotle’s virtue ethics came through loud and clear. Of course, our pupils do brilliantly academically too, and this was also recognised, but Exeter School is about so much more than this, and the recognition given to the extensive range of co-curricular and enrichment opportunities, alongside leadership development and excellence in the arts, music and outdoor adventurous activities are all things that we are extremely proud of. There are few independent day schools nationally who offer as much as we do – and I hope that you enjoy reading the inspectors’ reflections in this summary of their findings.
Louise Simpson Head
An overview
We are delighted to share the results of our recent inspection by the Independent Schools Inspectorate, conducted from 12th to 14th November 2024. The inspection evaluated key areas of our school, including leadership and governance, quality of education, safeguarding, wellbeing, and pupils’ contributions to society.
We are proud to announce that Exeter School met the standards in all areas, reflecting our unwavering commitment to excellence in education, pupil wellbeing, and character education. These achievements are a testament to the dedication of our staff, the enthusiasm of our pupils, and the support of our wider school community.
As you read further, you’ll discover how our ethos to aspire & flourish—guided by the school’s virtues of kindness & integrity, collaboration & endeavour, inspiration & serviceshapes everything we do. Our character-led approach, from our academic success to our rich co-curricular programme, firmly demonstrates how Exeter School is a place where pupils thrive and prepare for a future filled with possibility.
A School of Great Character
The inspection report highlights how Exeter School’s commitment to character education is integral to its ethos. The school’s “virtue-based character education programme” helps pupils develop key qualities such as kindness, integrity, and respect, which are embedded across all aspects of the schools academic and co-curricular life. Inspectors noted that this approach “encourages pupils to challenge themselves, work well with others, and serve their community,” ensuring that character development is as important as academic achievement. This focus prepares pupils not only for future success but perhaps more importantly, for meaningful contributions to society.
• Virtue based education: The school instils a sense of responsibility and moral courage, teaching pupils to act with kindness, respect, and integrity.
• Community engagement: Pupils learn the value of service by supporting their peers and contributing to local initiatives, demonstrating the importance of giving back and building an inclusive community.
• Inclusion and respect: By embracing diversity, pupils are prepared to contribute positively to society, learning to welcome and value others from all backgrounds.
Outstanding Leadership and Governance
At Exeter School, our governors provide robust oversight and strategic vision, ensuring that pupils’ wellbeing and success are at the heart of everything we do. The inspection highlighted that governors “maintain close scrutiny of the school’s activities and the impact of these on pupils’ outcomes” and “provide effective support and challenge to school leaders.” Their hands-on approach, including regular visits and discussions with staff and pupils, fosters a culture of continuous improvement and shared ambition for excellence.
Reflecting our virtues of Inspire & Challenge and Kindness & Integrity
• Visionary leadership: The school’s leaders act with integrity, setting high standards and cultivating an ethos of kindness and excellence. Their decisions are driven by a commitment to the wellbeing and success of every pupil.
• Reflective and strategic practices: By challenging themselves and others, leaders ensure that Exeter School continuously improves and adapts to meet the needs of its community.
• Effective risk management: The school balances ambition with responsibility, enabling pupils to explore adventurous opportunities in a safe and supportive environment.
Exceptional Quality of Education, Training, and Recreation
Exeter School delivers an education that balances academic excellence with creativity, personal development, and broad enrichment opportunities. Inspectors commended our “wellthought-through curriculum” that ensures pupils build their knowledge and skills progressively, achieving outstanding results in public examinations. This seamless approach supports pupils’ confidence and intellectual growth as they move through the school.
Beyond academic achievements, the school offers a rich variety of recreational opportunities, with inspectors highlighting the “wide variety of clubs and societies” that help pupils develop their physical, intellectual, and social skills. From creative arts and music to competitive sports and innovative clubs, our co-curricular programme allows every pupil to explore their passions and reach new heights. This character led approach ensures our pupils are well-equipped for academic success but also to lead a fulfilling and balanced life.
Reflecting our virtues to Inspire & Challenge and Endeavour & Collaborate
• Broad and balanced curriculum: Pupils are inspired to reach their potential through a curriculum that fosters curiosity and encourages critical thinking. The school challenges pupils to excel academically while nurturing their creativity and problem-solving skills.
• Creative and sporting opportunities: From school plays and concerts to a wide variety of clubs and sports, pupils develop new talents and skills, striving for excellence in all they do.
• Outstanding exam performance: Pupils achieve beyond expectations in public examinations, reflecting their commitment to personal endeavour and a love of learning.
‘ Warm relationships between staff and pupils create a safe and supportive environment’
Supporting Pupils’ Physical, Mental, and Emotional Wellbeing
Exeter School is dedicated to fostering pupils’ physical and mental health, ensuring their overall wellbeing is a priority in every aspect of school life. Inspectors praised the school’s “warm relationships between staff and pupils” that create a safe and supportive environment where pupils feel valued and confident to raise concerns. The Hub (junior school) and character and practical wisdom lessons were highlighted as key features that help pupils “develop self-confidence and self-esteem” while equipping them with the skills to make informed decisions about their health. Inspectors also noted the importance placed on healthy living, with pupils being encouraged to “make healthy food choices independently” and engage in a wide range of physical activities that build strength, fitness, and resilience.
Reflecting our virtues to Endeavour & Collaborate and Welcome & Serve
• Safe and nurturing environment: The school provides a collaborative and inclusive environment, where pupils feel safe, supported, and valued.
• Wellbeing and mental health: Through thoughtful programmes and facilities like the wellbeing room (room 3), pupils are supported in their personal growth and emotional resilience.
• Exceptional facilities: Exeter School’s inclusive and well-maintained facilities reflect its commitment to safety, innovation, and community collaboration.
Pupils’ Social and Economic Education and Contribution to Society
Exeter School places a strong emphasis on developing pupils’ social responsibility and understanding of economic principles. The inspection noted that the school effectively integrates the value of service into its ethos, with pupils engaging in “a wide variety of volunteering activities in the local area” and supporting their peers through initiatives like the Young Changemakers programme. The curriculum also provides important lessons in economics and financial literacy, with Upper Two (Year 6) pupils learning about “loans and entrepreneurship” and older pupils gaining practical experience with budgeting and savings. Inspectors highlighted that through these opportunities, pupils are “well-prepared for the next steps in their education journey” and understand the importance of contributing positively to society, demonstrating values of service, leadership, and respect for diverse perspectives.
Reflecting our virtues of virtues of Endeavour & Collaborate and Inspire & Challenge.
Career and university guidance: Pupils are inspired to explore their potential through expert guidance on university, apprenticeships, and career options. The school challenges them to set high aspirations for their future.
Financial literacy education: Initiatives like “Make £5 Grow” encourage entrepreneurial thinking and practical financial skills, empowering pupils to succeed in life beyond school.
‘ Pupils are well-prepared for the next steps in their education journey’
‘ The school’s commitment to safeguarding ensures that every pupil can thrive academically and emotionally in a secure environment, with a dedicated and responsive system in place to protect their wellbeing’
Robust Safeguarding Practices
At Exeter School, safeguarding is a cornerstone of our educational ethos, ensuring that all pupils are protected and supported in a safe and nurturing environment. Inspectors praised the school for its “robust safeguarding culture” and highlighted how “leaders have established effective systems.” This commitment to safety is evident in the comprehensive training provided to staff, who are equipped to identify and address any concerns swiftly.
The inspection also acknowledged the school’s proactive approach, noting that “staff are confident to enact the procedures effectively,” ensuring pupils feel secure and supported. Governors play an integral role, with regular visits to the school to review safeguarding procedures, receiving “detailed safeguarding reports” to ensure policies remain relevant and effective.
Pupils themselves benefit from a school culture where they are encouraged to raise concerns, with inspectors highlighting that “pupils are confident to raise any concerns” knowing they will be addressed promptly. Furthermore, the inspection found that Exeter School’s safeguarding team maintains “detailed records” of any concerns, working closely with local agencies to provide targeted support where necessary.
Reflecting our virtues of virtues of Kindness & Integrity and Endeavour & Collaborate
• Specialised support for SEND and EAL Pupils: Staff act with kindness and integrity, tailoring support to individual needs to ensure every pupil flourishes. Collaborative efforts between staff and external specialists provide exceptional care.
• Personalised learning: Teachers work collaboratively with pupils, adapting lessons to ensure unique strengths and challenges are addressed.
• Emotional and mental health support: Kindness is at the heart of the school’s wellbeing initiatives. The dedicated wellbeing room, the Hub and pastoral care nurture pupils’ emotional resilience and self-confidence.