Blessed Hugh Faringdon Catholic School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 13 September 2023

Pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), flourish at this inclusive school. Relationships are strong. Pupils know that staff care about them deeply. Together, pupils and staff create a vibrant community, which helps pupils feel loved and cherished. In lessons, pupils listen to one another respectfully. They benefit from learning from engaging and skilful teachers. The school is calm and orderly. Staff share consistently high expectations regarding pupils' behaviour and conduct. Pupils rise to these. They are polite and hold the door open for each other. The school responds thoughtfully to make necessary improvements to, for example, the recently updated one-way system. Celebrating success is a priority. Pupils relish the awards they receive, including for achievements beyond the academic curriculum. Opportunities to take on leadership responsibilities are plentiful. Older pupils train to be 'peer supporters'. This is one of many ways pupils serve and help each other. The proactive school council gives pupils a meaningful voice in how the school is run. The school's focus on promoting pupils' positive mental health and well-being ensures that pupils know how to keep themselves healthy and happy. Pupils and staff understand and confidently apply the school values of fortitude, resilience and commitment. Parents recognise and appreciate the support pupils receive from the caring staff. One parent, typical of many, said: 'My children have really thrived here'.

What the school should improve

• Precise adaptation of the curriculum for pupils with SEND is still being refined. This means that the support that some pupils receive in lessons is not as effective as it could be. The school should continue its work to enhance and embed best practice across the school and ensure systems for oversight are consistently robust.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)