At Pilgrims’ we’re proud of what every single pupil and every member of staff does every single day, so we're delighted to share the findings of the Independent Schools Inspectorate inspection that took place in March 2026. 

Inspectors note that our curriculum is well-structured to meet pupils’ needs as they move through the school. The report says our teachers not only demonstrate good knowledge of their subjects, they know pupils well too.  Our careful planning of an extensive co-curricular programme with sporting and creative opportunities which allows boys to develop talents alongside their academic studies is acknowledged as encouraging all pupils of all abilities to broaden their interests, skills and self-confidence.

One particular part of our rich and varied school life was given a significant strength. A significant strength is an exceptional feature of the school’s provision that goes well beyond what is expected, and which has a notably positive impact on pupils. The ISI Inspectorate identifies Music as a significant strength, reflecting the extensive breadth of what we offer music-wise across the school, alongside our very public-facing choral opportunities.  Inspectors noted that the Pilgrims' music curriculum is well-designed and wide-ranging, supporting pupils’ different skills and interests. The report says this has a highly positive impact on pupils’ musical achievements, and it praises our music programme for being inclusive, with regular opportunities for collaboration, teamwork and community performances, giving pupils a clear sense of belonging. 

The Inspectors say leaders at Pilgrims' have a thorough understanding of the early years foundation stage (EYFS) that ensures children are supported to meet age-related expectations, arranging a thorough transition that prepares children in Reception so they can confidently move to Year 1and onwards through the school.  

This report reflects the hard work of many people over many years, and a culture of educational excellence that we should all be proud of.  It’s a tribute to the boys, staff and The Pilgrims’ Committee.

We hope you will share in our pleasure as you read the report, from which there are some highlights below.

ISI INSPECTION HIGHLIGHTS:

• '…pupils have a sense of what is right and wrong’ 
• 'The school’s approach to diversity and inclusion is woven into the curriculum'
• 'Leaders have a clear vision for the school’s development, based on close monitoring and thorough self-evaluation'.
• 'Pupils are articulate, kind and respectful of others. They demonstrate responsible and diligent attitudes towards learning'.
• '...an extensive and stimulating music curriculum that has a highly positive impact on pupils’ musical achievements and the development of pupils’ self-expression throughout the school'.
• 'Music is a significant strength of the school'.
• 'Teachers use dialogue and questioning effectively to deepen pupils’ thinking'
• '...pupils use their imagination and progressively complex vocabulary to extend their writing and link subject knowledge effectively'.
• 'The school’s varied and extensive co-curricular programme… encourages all pupils of all abilities to broaden their interests, skills and self-confidence'.
• '...pupils develop a sense of social responsibility and build positive relationships..'
• 'Pupils have a well-developed spiritual and moral understanding aligned with the school’s Christian ethos'.
• 'Pupils speak with confidence and express their views and feelings clearly and openly'.

Find out more

If you would like to find out more about The Pilgrims’ School, please contact our Registrar, Emma, to arrange a personal visit or ask any questions you may have. She can be reached via email at admissions@pilgrims-school.co.uk or call on 01962 854189.