Bury Grammar School is now celebrating an outstanding achievement as we receive glowing inspection results from the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI).

The ISI inspection, which took place in December last year, covered every aspect of the School's operation, from academic performance to pastoral care, extracurricular activities, and overall school management. We are proud to announce that our school excelled in all areas, solidifying our reputation as a leading educational establishment in the region.  

BGS was inspected according to the new ISI inspection framework, which became operational in September 2023 and places children’s wellbeing first. In this framework, no overall one-word judgment is given.  

We were delighted with both the verbal and written feedback about our school and with the outcomes which could not have been more positive. 

Bury Grammar School met all the Standards, in every area, for: 

1. Leadership, management and governance 
2. Quality of education, training and recreation 
3. Pupils' physical and mental health and emotional wellbeing 
4. Pupils' social and economic education and contribution to society 
5. Safeguarding.

"Staff provide positive role models for the pupils who, as a result, demonstrate high levels of mutual respect and a genuine care for others."

The ISI inspection praised our school for our exceptional academic achievements, noting that pupils consistently perform well above the national average in GCSE and A Level examinations. The report also commended the quality of teaching, highlighting the staff's dedication and expertise in providing a stimulating learning environment:

"In lessons, pupils are highly engaged, disciplined and keen to learn"

"Pupils demonstrate a self-motivated and determined approach to learning"

"Children in the early years achieve well"

"Pupils work harmoniously with others"

"Pupils' behaviour is positive"

"Teachers assess and evaluate pupils’ progress regularly and keep parents and pupils well informed"

Moreover, the inspection recognised the School's emphasis on pastoral care and well-being, stating

"...pupils feel safe and staff are always present to support them if needed"

"Pupils are treated equally and feel supported by all their teachers"

"Children in the setting feel safe and happy"

"Positive relationships with the pupils"

"Arrangements are made to safeguard and promote the welfare of pupils"

The vibrant extracurricular programme was another area where the school was praised. The ISI inspection report celebrated the wide range of opportunities available to pupils, from sports to arts, ensuring that each pupils can explore their passions and interests outside the classroom and reported,

"Leaders have developed a diverse and extensive programme of recreational, intellectual, social, creative and physical activities that offer pupils opportunities to develop their own interests, daily living skills and independence."

"The school provides a wide range of activities such as water polo, yoga, cheerleading, water aerobics..."

Principal, Jo Anderson, expressed immense pride in these accomplishments, saying,

"We are delighted with the ISI inspection results, which reflect the dedication, hard work, and passion of our pupils, students, staff, governors, parents and community. It is a testament to the unwavering commitment to excellence that defines Bury Grammar School." 

This report serves as a shining testament to the dedication and excellence that defines our school as it continues to set a high standard for educational institutions in the region. The ISI report states, 

"...the school’s aim of challenging and inspiring the pupils to work hard and aim high is reinforced successfully as seen throughout all aspects of school life."

You can read the full report here: Inspection December 2023.