Bishop Milner Catholic College

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 19 September 2023

Bishop Milner Catholic College leaders and pupils share the same high aspirations. Pupils understand and follow the values to 'inspire hearts and minds'. Relationships between pupils and staff are warm and respectful. Pupils work hard and achieve very well, including pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Typical parental comments are that 'staff are friendly, approachable, confident in their roles and often go above and beyond for their students'. There is a purposeful atmosphere around the school. Pupils say they can focus on their learning well. Most pupils work hard and want to do well. On the rare occasions when there is low-level disruption, teachers act quickly and efficiently to address it. During social times, pupils walk and mix in a calm and orderly manner. Pupils feel safe. They say they know who to talk to about any concerns they have. The school prioritises pupils' personal development exceptionally well. The extra-curricular programme is rich and diverse. Pupils regularly take part in a range of clubs such as art, chess and computing. Opportunities, such as the recent trip to France for modern foreign languages and history, enhance the curriculum. Pupils on the leadership team are proud to support others.

What the school should improve

• In some subjects, some teachers do not consistently check that pupils understand what has been learned and what pupils can remember. This means that some pupils may not fully understand the key knowledge they need to know as effectively in some subjects compared to other subjects. The school must ensure that all teachers further embed and consistently check pupils' understanding and recall at regular points in their learning, and adapt their teaching accordingly to ensure that all pupils know and remember the key knowledge they need.
• Some pupils do not read widely and regularly in school and at home. This means that they do not make sufficient progress in developing their reading, and lack an understanding of what they are reading. The school should further embed the current reading strategy to carefully monitor and support pupils and parents in engaging with regular and wide reading.

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