St Anselm's Catholic School, Canterbury

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 12 September 2023

Pupils blossom at this happy and caring school, where difference is prized and nurtured. The school's values, 'the three R's', underpin all aspects of daily life. Pupils do the right thing because they are taught the importance of having 'respect for self, for others and for the environment'. Effective partnerships with parents and carers are at the heart of ensuring that pupils thrive, both socially and academically. As one parent shared, 'This is a fantastic school, where the staff work tirelessly for the pupils.' There is a strong sense of belonging here. The school has high aspirations for all pupils. Classrooms are calm and orderly places conducive to successful learning. Pupils listen carefully to staff and approach their work diligently. Consequently, they learn well. Many pupils feel proud to go on to study courses in the school's growing sixth form. The pastoral support that staff give to pupils is a particular strength. Pupils feel safe. They know that there is always someone to talk to who will listen to them and take them seriously. Pupils play an active role in their school and the wider community, such as by raising funds for local charities. Many sixth-form students enjoy being a peer mentor for younger pupils.

What the school should improve

• There is a small number of inconsistencies in how well the curriculum is taught. This sometimes limits how well pupils consolidate and deepen their knowledge and understanding. The trust should continue to develop staff's pedagogy so that all pupils learn well across the different subjects in the curriculum.
• Some pupils do not attend school often enough. This means that they miss out on essential learning. The trust should ensure that its ongoing work leads to improvements in pupils' attendance where they are needed.

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