St Christopher’s The Hall, Beckenham, is proud to celebrate the superb outcome of its recent Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) inspection, carried out in March 2025.
Under ISI’s rigorous new framework—which evaluates academic achievement, compliance, personal development, leadership, and the overall quality of education—the school received an exceptional report that highlights its strength, ambition, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
In a rare and prestigious acknowledgement, the school was awarded a ‘significant strength’ for its leadership of teaching and learning and the continuous improvement of the quality of education. This is the highest commendation ISI can give, reserved only for areas that have a sustained, transformative impact on all pupils.
‘Leaders’ strategic focus and action to ensure continuous improve in the quality of education is a significant strength,’ the report explained. ‘Through this approach, leaders strive for excellence in pupils’ experience of their curriculum.
Speaking about the report, Head, Tom Carter said: ‘This report is a powerful affirmation of everything we stand for at St Christopher’s. It reflects the dedication of our staff, the joyful engagement of our pupils, and the strength of our community. We are thrilled that the inspectors saw what makes our school so special.’
The report comes at an exciting time for St Christopher’s The Hall. Earlier this year, it was announced the school would be joining St Dunstan’s Education Group, which now educates nearly 1,800 children in south-east London.
Following the release of the report, CEO, Nick Hewlett added: ‘The whole group is delighted with St Christopher’s The Hall’s latest ISI report.
‘To be awarded a significant strength is still rare within the prep sector and is an endorsement of the inspiring education Tom and his team provide for the children under their care. I pay tribute to all the staff, pupils and families who make St Christopher’s such a special place. I am delighted that this report marks the fourth significant strength to have been gained by schools across St Dunstan’s Education Group within the last two years.’
The inspectors praised the school’s inspiring curriculum, inclusive ethos, and vibrant co-curricular programme. They noted how pupils are supported as individuals, encouraged to aim high, and nurtured in a warm and ambitious environment that promotes both academic success and personal growth.
‘Pupils develop a thorough understanding of the importance of mutual respect for those who have different values, beliefs, faiths and cultures,’ the report explained. ‘This is provided through the curriculum and reinforced through assemblies, visiting speakers, trips and visits. The school fosters an inclusive environment where all pupils feel valued.’
The inspectors also praised the Early Years’ provision and the support given to the pupils: ‘Teachers provide carefully planned activities for children in the Nursery and Reception classes. They have embedded an appropriate phonics programme and structured reading scheme to develop early literacy skills.
‘Children’s language and communication are strengthened through planned activities and play-based learning. Adults develop children’s co-ordination and control, including pencil grip and early letter formation, building strong foundations for children to move onto Year 1.’