The ISI Report 2025

It would be easy to say that an independent school produces polite, well-rounded or resilient students – and, of course, Scarborough College does. But the latest Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) Report reveals something far more powerful about our community: Scarborough College students are exceptional because they experience an exceptional education built on the partnership between dedicated teachers, engaged pupils and supportive parents..

The College is a school where academic ambition, personal growth and pastoral wellbeing are all held to the same high standard – and that standard defines every single stage of school life.

Excellence in Learning

At the heart of the 2025 ISI report is a simple truth: students achieve highly because they are taught to think deeply. Inspectors praised the “stimulating and varied lessons” and “thorough subject knowledge” of teachers who adapt their approach to bring out the best in every learner.

Whether it’s rigorous analysis in the IB Diploma Programme, creative experimentation in the arts, or hands-on exploration in science, lessons at Scarborough College go beyond the textbook. They inspire curiosity, independence and confidence, and these qualities stay with our students long after they leave.

Excellence here isn’t about rote success or exam statistics; it’s about building intellectual courage and a genuine love of learning and the report highlights this, stating that, “Pupils are proactive and diligent learners and develop their skills and understanding consistently.”

More Than Extracurricular Activities and Manners

The ISI Inspection report recognises what parents and students already knew: Scarborough College’s strength lies not in one area, but in the balance between them all. Yes, students excel in sports, perform brilliantly in drama and music, and show impressive kindness and resilience, but inspectors found that these qualities stem from something deeper.

They come from a culture of high expectations, expert teaching and a commitment to helping every member of the community understand the value of effort, curiosity and compassion. Students “approach their education with enjoyment and confidence,” not because they are told to, but because they feel it every day.

A Community That Inspires Confidence

The report highlights Scarborough College as an “open and tolerant community” where inclusion and respect are woven into daily life. Pupils of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to share their ideas, listen to others, and celebrate differences and, “Leaders promote a robust safeguarding culture.”

This environment of belonging allows students to grow into confident young adults who know how to lead, how to collaborate, and how to think globally. It is no surprise to us that inspectors found that our students “behave respectfully and supportively towards each other”.

Supporting Boarding Students

The College was awarded a BSA (Boarding Schools’ Association) Award for the support of boarders and the report emphasises this strength of boarding provision, stating that, “Leaders promote an inclusive community which is sensitive to boarders’ individual needs.” It further highlights the respect, friendship and support of boarding pupils among each other and staff being both receptive to pupil voice and open to making changes with regards to food, activities and trips.

Nurturing the Whole Person

Inspectors praised the school’s commitment to wellbeing, describing how Scarborough College “promotes pupils’ physical and mental health effectively.” From the nurturing early years to the independence of boarding life, students are surrounded by adults who know them, guide them, and believe in them.

Sports and outdoor learning are central to school life, not simply for fitness and wellbeing, but for the life lessons they teach: teamwork, resilience, and balance. Students leave Scarborough College ready for the challenges ahead because they have been supported, stretched and inspired in equal measure.

The Road Ahead 

The ISI report confirms what those within the community see every day: Scarborough College is not just a good school – it is a place of genuine educational excellence.

Of course, it would not be a rounded report without some steps that need to be taken. Although our careers education was highlighted as very good in both the Prep School and in Years 10-13, measures are already in place to bring the rest of provision up, in Years 7 – 9, to an equally high standard. Our PHSE provision is already being reviewed to invite in more guest speakers into these year groups specifically, encouraging high aspirations throughout. 

We are delighted with the findings of this report as it confirms our own views. Scarborough College doesn’t just produce polite, sporty, resilient young people. It produces exceptional learners because the education they receive is exceptional as well.

You can find the full ISI Inspection Report here: https://scarboroughcollege.co.uk/policies/

Back to News