St Thomas More Catholic High School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 17 May 2023

There is warmth and friendliness at St Thomas More Catholic High School. Although the school is large, pupils are treated as individuals and staff know them well. The pastoral support and care that staff give to pupils is a particular strength. Leaders have invested in this area and many parents value both the academic and personal guidance that their children receive. Pupils attend well. The high standard of pastoral support means that most pupils feel safe in school. The vast majority of pupils feel that bullying is rare. Pupils feel that, if bullying does happen, it is dealt with well by staff. Pupils conduct themselves well. They are friendly and polite. Pupils understand the behaviour system and most feel that staff apply this consistently. In lessons, behaviour is positive. If there is minor off-task behaviour, staff deal with this swiftly to prevent escalation. Pupils appreciate the broad range of subjects that they can study in school and in sixth form. Pupils have opportunities to develop leadership skills by joining committees such as the charity or leadership committee. Students who attend the sixth form are very positive about their decision to study here. One student commented that 'it is like a family', illustrating the kind and inclusive atmosphere that is present.

What the school should improve

• Some teachers do not carefully plan to involve all pupils in the lesson. This means that not all pupils fully engage with learning, particularly those who are disadvantaged. Leaders must ensure that all teachers use consistent approaches so that all pupils know that they are expected to participate fully in lessons to maximise learning.
• Not enough pupils, including those who are disadvantaged, pupils with SEND and sixth-form students, attend extra-curricular provision. In addition, not all sixth- form students choose to access work experience opportunities. This means that too few pupils access activities that enhance their curriculum beyond the academic. Leaders need to ensure that more pupils are accessing the extra- curricular offer and make good use of opportunities to develop their talents and interests.

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