Maria Fidelis Catholic School FCJ

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 17 March 2026

The school has a proud long-serving history in the community. It is firmly grounded in its ethos for pupils to become the best version of themselves. Staff support pupils in developing their confidence and resilience as well as the value in serving others. The values of the school are largely embodied by pupils, who are polite to adults and learn to have empathy for one another. This means that the school is calm and orderly. The school is warm and welcoming. Pupils are happy and safe at school. They attend school very well and form positive relationships with staff. They know that there are adults to speak to if they need additional help. Pupils work hard in lessons and respect one another. This is put into practise at social times. Discrimination and bullying are not tolerated. If any issues or concerns do arise, staff are quick to respond. Pupils follow a broad and ambitious curriculum. Typically, they achieve below national averages in their examinations. However, the achievement of pupils who are disadvantaged is close to national average at GCSE for disadvantaged pupils. Some pupils do not build their knowledge and skills as successfully as they could. This is because the curriculum is not delivered consistently to a high standard. While improvements are underway, it is too early to see the impact. The school has a Roman Catholic character and works closely with the Faithful Companions of Jesus Sisters whose site is nearby. The school also values diversity, promotes learning about different faiths and beliefs and instils a deep sense of responsibility towards others. Pupils benefit from a range of events and clubs, including debating, volleyball and choir. These enrich pupils' school experience and support their personal and social development.

What the school should improve

• Leaders must ensure that pupils have the appropriate support to secure strong foundational knowledge and skills, particularly in reading, so that all pupils can access the curriculum successfully.
• Leaders should ensure that pupils’ learning is carefully checked and teaching adapted accordingly to address misconceptions and/or to move pupils on to more challenging content.
• Leaders should ensure that pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities consistently have the adaptations and reasonable adjustments they need in lessons.
• Leaders should take the appropriate actions to drive improvement for pupils' attainment in national examinations.
• Leaders and governors should ensure that they strategically implement and quality assure new processes and systems in place so that they have the required impact.

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