The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) is an independent, government-approved body which provides objective inspections to safeguard the quality and effectiveness of the education, care and welfare of children in schools. ISI is not an arm of the government, but an independent, not-for-profit inspectorate. Its work is monitored on behalf of the Department for Education (DfE) and a public report is made annually to the Secretary of State. ISI regularly contributes to the development of the national policy for education and welfare, including the latest DfE legislation and statutory guidance.
Safeguarding
Safeguarding is at the heart of all ISI inspections. This involves checking whether schools are compliant with the minimum standards required, not only in terms of policies and procedures but, importantly, in what they do. ISI inspectors not only check documentation but also interview staff and pupils to satisfy themselves as to the school’s safeguarding culture.
Cumnor House also featured in The Good Schools Guide.

Everywhere we saw evidence of lively and careful teaching, and the boys were vociferous about how much they enjoyed lessons.
‘History is my favourite, because it’s all about old things, and did you know that Henry VIII died because his bottom exploded on the toilet!’ cried a year 2 lad enthusiastically. The older boys were more…
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Welcome Back | Nursery | View/Download |
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Inspection Reports
“The Leadership and Management teams demonstrate good skills and knowledge, fulfil their responsibilities effectively and actively promote the well-being of their pupils”
“Principles and Values are actively promoted which facilitate the personal development of pupils as responsible, tolerant and law-abiding citizens”
‘The teaching enables pupils to make good progress, encompasses effective behaviour management and is supported by suitable resources.’
‘Principles and values are actively promoted which facilitate the personal development of pupils as responsible, tolerant, law-abiding citizens.’
‘Leadership and management demonstrate good skills and knowledge, and fulfil their responsibilities effectively, so that the other standards are consistently met and they actively promote the well-being of the pupils.’
‘The quality of the pupils’ academic and other achievements is excellent. Pupils exhibit a deep love of learning and are highly motivated. Pupils demonstrate substantial success in achieving scholarships and places at senior schools of choice.’
‘The quality of the pupils’ personal development is excellent. Pupils demonstrate substantial self-confidence and self-awareness. Pupils display excellent awareness of and sensitivity towards the needs of others. Pupils feel extremely safe, well-known and cared for.’
‘The achievement of the pupils is excellent and successfully fulfills the school’s aims. The pupils have a strong learning ethos, they are highly articulate, they listen carefully, the quality of their writing is of a high standard and the standard of their mathematics is exceptional.’
‘Pupils are very successful in their entry examinations to their senior schools and win a large number of academic and other scholarships.’