St Mary's Catholic Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 16 June 2026

Pupils feel happy and safe. They benefit from positive relationships with staff. Pupils know that adults are available to support them at all times. Pupils also have systems that enable them to raise concerns online. As a result, they are confident that adults will listen to them and take appropriate action. Pupils learn how to keep themselves safe from risks in the local community. For example, they learn about the dangers associated with drug misuse. Pupils attend well. They enjoy learning in a calm, purposeful environment. Established routines mean that pupils and staff understand expectations clearly. There is a culture of mutual respect across the school that reflects the ethos of the school. Consequently, pupils learn in classrooms where there is little disruption. Leaders deal with bullying effectively. Leaders know pupils well and have high ambitions for all. Leaders ensure that disadvantaged pupils and pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) receive appropriate support. For example, trained staff support pupils with SEND to overcome their barriers. Leaders also provide additional resources such as revision guides and equipment for pupils who need them. As a result, all pupils have an equitable school experience. However, pupils do not achieve as well as they should across many subjects. Pupils participate in a broad range of extra-curricular opportunities. For example, 'Shine' workshops help pupils develop their self-esteem. 'The Big Conversation' programme supports pupils' understanding of stress management. Pupils also learn about issues affecting their local community. For example, leaders have responded to local concerns about health by promoting healthy eating. These experiences help pupils to broaden their understanding of the world around them. Students in the post-16 provision study a curriculum that prepares them for local employment opportunities. They achieve well and benefit from leadership opportunities that develop responsibility. Detailed careers guidance helps most students move successfully into education, employment or training.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that improvements to teaching, including the checks made on what pupils know and remember, are embedded across all subjects.
• Leaders should ensure that improvements to the curriculum lead to a positive trend in pupils' achievement.
• Leaders should refine the tracking of pupils' participation in the personal development programme to respond to their individual needs and aspirations across all phases.

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