EDUCATION
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
BECKENHAM’ S BEST KEPT SECRET: ST CHRISTOPHER’ S THE HALL SHINES IN EXCEPTIONAL ISI REPORT
Nestled in the heart of Beckenham, St Christopher’ s The Hall has long been a hidden gem- a school quietly delivering excellence without fanfare. Now, following a glowing inspection from the Independent Schools Inspectorate( ISI), the secret is well and truly out.
In its most recent ISI inspection, conducted in March 2025 under the new and more rigorous framework, St Christopher’ s was recognised for its exceptional leadership, inspiring curriculum and outstanding pupil development. Most notably, the school was awarded the ISI’ s highest possible commendation- a‘ significant strength’ rating for its leadership of teaching and learning and continuous improvement in the quality of education – a rare honour within the prep school sector.
‘ Leaders’ strategic focus and action to ensure continuous improvement in the quality of education is a significant strength,’ the report stated.‘ Through this approach, leaders strive for excellence in pupils’ experience of their curriculum.’
Reflecting on the report, head Tom Carter, explained:“ 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 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.’
This moment of recognition comes at an exciting time for the school. Earlier this year, St Christopher’ s joined the prestigious St Dunstan’ s Education Group, a move that builds on its existing strengths while offering new opportunities for collaboration and innovation.
Group CEO Nick Hewlett, added:“ 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. St Christopher’ s may have been Beckenham’ s best kept secret – but this report shines a spotlight on everything that makes it exceptional.”
Whether it’ s the warm and ambitious atmosphere, the passionate teaching, or the rich variety of experiences offered to pupils from Nursery through to Year 6, St Christopher’ s The Hall is a school that speaks softly but achieves loudly. With this outstanding inspection report, it’ s clear the secret is out – and it’ s one worth sharing.
Find out more about St Christopher’ s The Hall at its upcoming Discovery Morning on Saturday 11 October 2025.
www. stchristophersthehall. org. uk stchristhehall
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