Inspectors find college 'exceeds expectations'

A college says it has achieved a rare "exceeds expectations" rating from the UK government's British Schools Overseas (BSO) scheme.

The Guernsey's Ladies' College rating follows an inspection as part of a scheme which ranks overseas British‑curriculum schools against standards in England.

The report highlighted academic results that surpassed UK independent school averages, noting the college's success in promoting female role models in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, the college said.

Principal Daniele Harford-Fox said the result was a testament to the school's dedication to empowering girls through "kindness, bravery, and integrity".

The British Schools Overseas scheme covers more than 200 accredited educational settings in more than 40 countries.

The Ladies' College said inspectors found the quality of leadership exceeded requirements in most areas, which had a highly beneficial impact on pupils.

A spokesman said: "For most accredited schools, the highest possible outcome is to meet all requirements, which in itself reflects a strong standard of quality.

"The Ladies' College has gone beyond this benchmark, with inspectors awarding the higher judgement reserved for schools where leadership has a clear and significantly positive impact on pupils."

Harford-Fox said inspections were "nerve-wracking" but created "incredible pride in the students and staff".

"My stand-out moment was when the lead inspector said that he was struck by how deeply our values and aims were lived," she said.

"That this was a place that truly did empower girls and where the girls really strove to be full of kindness, bravery and integrity.

'We are immensely proud of the findings of this inspection, which recognise the hard work, commitment and dedication of our staff, alongside the enthusiasm, drive and character of our pupils.

"This result is a testament to the community at The Ladies' College, and I feel very proud of our girls, their families and the staff who strive every day to provide an outstanding education."

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