St Mary & St Thomas Aquinas Catholic Primary School, Blaydon

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 15 October 2024

Pupils at St Mary & St Thomas Aquinas Catholic Primary School are extremely happy, confident and articulate members of the school family. They have every opportunity to blossom and thrive in a remarkable, nurturing environment. A sense of care and mutual respect is at the core of everything the school does. Relationships are warm and highly positive. Pupils understand and follow the school's 'back pocket principles' of being ready, respectful and responsible. The school has incredibly high aspirations and expectations for every pupil. Talented and well-trained staff ensure all pupils have every chance to succeed. Pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), achieve exceptionally well. Pupils demonstrate exemplary standards of behaviour. Their conduct in lessons and around school is of the highest standard. Pupils have high levels of empathy for others. Older pupils relish opportunities to help younger children, calling them 'our soon-to-be special friends'. Parents and carers are extremely supportive of the school. Their comments were all of a similar theme such as, 'Staff know my children both academically as well as personally. They show a genuine interest in their lives, meaning they feel valued and safe.'

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