Blundell’s School is proud to announce the outcome of its Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) inspection, conducted in December 2025, which confirmed that the school is fully compliant in all areas and, in an exceptional achievement, identified two significant strengths in its provision.
A significant strength is defined by ISI as an exceptional feature of a school’s provision that goes well beyond expectations and has a notably positive impact on pupils. Nationally, only around one in ten schools is awarded even a single significant strength, making the recognition of two an extremely rare accolade. Blundell’s is among a very small number of schools nationally to receive this distinction and may be the first outside the South East of England to do so.
The inspection highlighted the school’s co-curricular programme as a significant strength, praising its breadth, depth and impact on pupils’ confidence, leadership skills and personal development. Inspectors noted that pupils of all ages and abilities participate enthusiastically, with leaders carefully monitoring engagement to ensure that every pupil benefits. The programme is regularly reviewed to reflect pupils’ interests and supports meaningful connections across year groups.
A second significant strength was identified in the school’s careers education programme, which inspectors described as comprehensive, impartial and exceptionally well structured. The report commends the use of nationally recognised frameworks, strong employer engagement, tailored support for pupils with SEND, and close tracking of pupil outcomes. As a result, pupils are well informed and confident in making decisions about their next steps, whether university, apprenticeships or employment.
The inspection report also recognises strong leadership and governance, a broad and carefully structured curriculum, a welcoming and supportive boarding environment, and a culture in which pupils feel safe, valued and well cared for.
Commenting on the outcome, Head, Mr Bart Wielenga said:
“I am delighted to share the findings of the ISI inspection. Not only were we found to be compliant in all areas, but to be awarded two significant strengths is a tremendous and very rare achievement. This report reflects the hard work of many people over many years and a culture of educational excellence that we can take collective pride in. It is a tribute to our pupils, staff and governors, and we hope our whole community will share in our pleasure and pride.”
Founded in 1604, Blundell’s School is an independent co-educational day and boarding school for pupils aged 11–19, located in Tiverton, Devon. The school’s ethos of providing both “roots and wings” continues to underpin its commitment to academic ambition, personal development and preparing pupils to contribute positively to society.
