Under the new ISI inspection framework, schools are no longer graded as ‘Excellent’ or ‘Good’. Instead, inspectors focus on whether schools meet the required standards and identify any “Significant Strengths” where a school demonstrates practice that is truly exceptional and has a particularly strong impact on pupils’ learning and development.
St Ives met all standards and has been awarded a "Significant Strength" recognising the exceptional quality of our curriculum and the outstanding learning experiences provided for our pupils.
This is a rare and prestigious distinction, awarded only when inspectors identify an aspect of a school’s provision that stands out as truly exceptional. Only around 10% of schools nationally receive this recognition, so we are absolutely thrilled to be able to share such wonderful news
We were delighted to welcome The Good Schools Guide to St Ives in June 2026 for an independent review of our school.
Renowned for its honest, impartial and insightful school reviews, The Good Schools Guide provides parents with an authentic picture of school life, looking beyond prospectuses and exam results to explore what makes each school truly special.
Describing St Ives as “joyful, green and the perfect place to be a child”, the review beautifully captures the warmth, individuality and nurturing spirit of our school.
From our inspiring learning environment and enriching curriculum to the happy, confident children at the heart of everything we do, the review celebrates what makes St Ives such a special place to learn and grow.
"I love St Ives because it feels like everyone's your family." Pupil
"I love St Ives because it feels like everyone's your family."
"Our experience of St Ives has been excellent. Our daughter is thriving in this safe nurturing environment, and we would highly recommend it to others." Parent Survey November 2024
"Our experience of St Ives has been excellent. Our daughter is thriving in this safe nurturing environment, and we would highly recommend it to others."
"Our boys are thriving at St Ives - the school is bursting with academic, sporting and creative arts opportunities, delivered by exceptionally talented and passionate teachers." Parent
"Our boys are thriving at St Ives - the school is bursting with academic, sporting and creative arts opportunities, delivered by exceptionally talented and passionate teachers."
"St Ives School is a very smiley place and everyone is happy to come to school every day." Pupil
"St Ives School is a very smiley place and everyone is happy to come to school every day."
100% of parents say "St Ives is an inspiring place to learn" Parent Survey November 2023 Edurio
100% of parents say "St Ives is an inspiring place to learn"
"Pupils attribute their progress to the support of their teachers who know each pupil well." ISI Report 2023
"Pupils attribute their progress to the support of their teachers who know each pupil well."
"Amazing pastoral care, amazing teacher child relationship, amazing support and very caring. My child loves going to school and had all the support he needed to excel." Parent Survey November 2024
"Amazing pastoral care, amazing teacher child relationship, amazing support and very caring. My child loves going to school and had all the support he needed to excel."
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