'Inadequate' Scathing report for city school

An independent school in Bristol has been slammed for putting pupils “at risk of harm”.

- Angus MCINTYRE

Bristol Waldorf School, on leafy Redland Hill just off the Downs, has had a scathing report from Ofsted inspectors, who awarded it their lowest possible rating of “Inadequate”.

The report was particularly damning of the school leadership's approach to child safeguarding.

“The proprietor does not check how effectively the school safeguards pupils,” the report said.

“Some staff lack a firm understanding of the latest statutory guidance.”

The school’s interim leadership, in place since May 2025, was given some credit for improving things slightly. However, inspectors said a weak culture pervaded.

“The interim leadership has made effective changes to safeguarding procedures,” the report continued. “Pupils feel safe.”

“They know who to talk to if they have any concerns. Despite this, a weak culture of safeguarding exists, which puts pupils at risk of harm.”