A school has been praised not only for the quality of its academic education but for the enrichment opportunities it provides to young people.

Bolton School boys' division and the junior boys' division both received glowing reports in their latest Independent Schools Inspectorate inspection (ISI) after an inspection in February.

In the report, the inspectors assessed both schools as having met all five of the standards and identified their programmes of extra-curricular and outdoor learning activities as being a ‘significant strength’, a plaudit which recognises the school's national leadership in this area of education.

During their three-day visit, the team of eight inspectors observed lessons, assemblies and extra-curricular activities.

They also met pupils, teachers, the schools' leadership teams and the Chair and other Governors.

Inspectors scrutinised samples of pupils' work, reviewed a range of policies and considered the views of pupils, staff and parents who had responded to their pre-inspection survey.

Key findings from the report found that the schools' academic curricula and extra-curricular programmes instil a culture of high expectations, mutual support, inclusivity and tolerance within the school community.

The report says the schools offers an extensive programme of extra-curricular and outdoor learning activities in which pupils of all ages excel in.

Students are said to make good academic progress, develop creative and critical thinking skills and demonstrate determination and self-discipline.

Pupils' behaviour and attitudes to learning are respectful, and there are effective arrangements for safeguarding which promote the safety and welfare of pupils.

The inspectors also noted that all school premises and accommodation are suitably maintained, well-resourced and secure.

Head of Foundation Philip Britton, MBE said: "The ISI's new inspection framework aims to capture what is distinctive about a school's culture and ethos, and I am delighted with how successfully the inspectors have recognised all that makes both the Boys' Division and Park Road so special in this report.

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"The inspectors' description of the 'positive and supportive environment' provided by both schools, 'which allows pupils to grow in confidence and self-esteem', is a point of particular pride, as it reflects the significant impact our post-pandemic focus upon pupil well-being and behaviour has had on the lives and experiences of our pupils.

“Equally pleasing is the inspectors' description of pupils' understanding that 'The school is an inclusive community [where] differences are accepted and diversity is celebrated', and the acknowledgement that provides of the warm and welcoming community we work hard to foster across the Bolton School Foundation.

Head of the boys' division, Nic Ford, said: "The inspectors' report is testament to the tremendous commitment of my colleagues and leadership team, and I am overjoyed that their efforts have been recognised with such fulsome praise.”