Rowan Preparatory School Receives Outstanding ISI Inspection Report

We are thrilled to announce that Rowan Preparatory School has received an exceptional report from the Independent Schools’ Inspectorate (ISI) following their inspection in June 2025. The inspection recognised the school’s commitment to academic excellence, wellbeing, and nurturing the individuality of every pupil. 

The report highlights Rowan’s shared “moral purpose and vision” and praises how school leaders “prioritise the wellbeing of pupils in the decisions that they make.” Inspectors noted the breadth and richness of our curriculum, which equips pupils with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to move seamlessly into secondary school. 

A particular area of strength is our Early Years provision, described as “relevant, engaging and developmentally appropriate.” Staff were commended for being highly responsive to the needs and abilities of children, using precise assessment strategies to ensure each child receives the support they need. Classrooms and resources were praised for promoting independence, curiosity, and purposeful learning, helping our youngest learners thrive. The inspection team concluded that our Early Years provision is a “significant strength of the school”, placing Rowan among the top 10% of inspected schools nationwide. 

This inspection was the first under ISI’s new framework, which focuses on evaluating how schools meet required standards rather than assigning a single judgement. Under this framework, the recognition of significant strengths is the highest accolade a school can receive.  

Inspectors also celebrated the school community, describing the girls as “polite and welcoming” and the learning environment as “calm, industrious and productive.” Academic achievement was praised, with teachers noted for their subject knowledge and thoughtful approach to assessing pupils’ learning. The report also highlighted the wide range of extra-curricular opportunities and sports, which pupils are encouraged to enjoy at a level that suits them. 

Rowan’s commitment to diversity and inclusion was another key highlight. Inspectors observed that the girls “possess an exceptionally well-developed understanding and respect for individuals with a range of diverse backgrounds, disabilities, ethnicities, faiths, beliefs, and lifestyles.” 

Looking ahead, the inspection team recommended building even more opportunities for pupils to contribute actively to their local community, an exciting step in our ongoing journey to foster responsible, engaged citizens. 

Headmistress Sarah Raja said: 
“We are thrilled that everything we strive to deliver has been recognised in this outstanding report. Our staff, pupils, and families all contribute to the special environment that makes Rowan such a unique and nurturing place to learn.” 

The full report is available to view [here].