What Our Catholic School Inspection Says About Us

Catholic Schools Inspectorate, November 2023

Our Catholic School Inspection celebrates St Catherine’s as a faith-filled, welcoming and loving community, where the mission “Love God, work hard, be kind” is fully lived and clearly visible in daily school life.

Key Strengths from the Catholic Inspection

• “As you enter St Catherine’s, there is an immediate sense of welcome and belonging.”
• “The mission statement… is at the heart of the school community.”
• “It is a community where pride and family shines brightly.”
• “The school environment celebrates its Catholic character.”
• “The Early Years provision is particularly strong in teaching and in leadership of prayer.”
• “Prayer is central to school life… pupils participate consciously and actively in acts of prayer.”
• “The headteacher and deputy headteacher have a clear vision… driven to bring about excellent outcomes for this community.”
• “Staff and pupils create a calm, prayerful atmosphere… the mission is truly lived out.”
• Parent voice included:
  • “Christ is at the centre of our school family.”
  • “The children live out the mission ‘Love God, Work hard, Be kind’ in their daily lives.”

The school was graded Good in:

• Catholic Life and Mission
• Religious Education
• Collective Worship

What Ofsted Say About Us

Ofsted Inspection, May 2023

Ofsted describe St Catherine’s as a happy, nurturing and ambitious school where pupils flourish both personally and academically. Inspectors highlight the strong relationships, excellent behaviour, and high expectations that enable children to succeed.

Key Strengths from Ofsted

• “Pupils, including children in the early years, are happy and proud to be part of the St Catherine’s family.”
• “Staff know the pupils very well, and relationships are strong.”
• “Leaders have high expectations of all pupils… pupils live up to these expectations and achieve well.”
• “Pupils feel safe in the school because they know adults look after them effectively.”
• “Leaders have been resolute in designing a well‑organised and ambitious curriculum… pupils embed and consolidate their knowledge.”
• “Reading is at the centre of the curriculum… older pupils have developed a love of reading.”
• “Pupils with SEND play a full and active role in all aspects of school life.”
• Pupils told inspectors, “Everyone is different, but they are all welcome here.”

Overall, the school was judged Good in all areas.