Portsmouth pupils praised after school is rated excellent following 'incredible' Government inspection

The team from the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) scrutinised every aspect of school life at Portsmouth Grammar School, and spent time in all areas from the pre-school to the sixth form. It proved an eye-opening but ‘incredible’ experience for headteacher David Wickes, coming just weeks after he started his new role at the school in High Street.

‘The outcome of this inspection is fitting testament to the fantastic work that goes on day in and day out at the school,’ said Mr Wickes. ‘And of course, it speaks to the special nature of the pupils that are our school.’

The excellent grade is the highest possible classification given by the ISI, which is approved by the Secretary of State to inspect schools which are, or whose heads are, in membership of the associations which form the Independent Schools Council (ISC).

While at the grammar school, the inspection team observed lessons and extra-curricular activities, spoke to pupils, and examined examples of pupils’ work. They also attended house and form meetings and assemblies, spoke to members of staff and governors and considered the responses of parents, staff and pupils to a questionnaire sent out during their visit.

The inspectors’ report fed back on two key areas. The first was education quality - the achievement of the pupils, including their academic development and the personal development of the pupils. In both of these, PGS was found to be excellent.

The second area was ‘focused compliance’ - looking at how the school meets regulatory standards and requirements. PGS met all the standards required.

Mr Wickes, who returned to the south coast in his new role after being brought up in Hedge End, said: ‘The process is incredibly robust. As a new member of staff, seeing the whole school come together to show the inspection team how we work, what our pupils achieve and how we engage with each other as a community was incredible. The inspection comments on how our pupils are actively engaged in school life and how their attitude to their work is excellent were particularly great to hear.’