To celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, patron of the diocese, 300 children from schools in the Diocesan Schools’ Singing Programme came together to sing Mass at St Mary’s Cathedral.
Bishop Terry was the principal celebrant and all but one school involved attended, with children and staff coming from across Middlesbrough, Marske-by-the-Sea and York.
Priests from many of the parishes represented by the schools joined Bishop Terry on the altar.
The children sang four traditional hymns, the Lourdes Mass setting and all joined to sing Simon Lindley’s Ave Maria in Latin.
Children from schools who sing with one of the cathedral’s choirs robed and sat together, performing some sections by themselves, with one Year 4 chorister singing a brief solo.
All the music was prepared in whole-class singing sessions led by either choral director Andrea Maxson or diocesan director of music Steven Maxson as part of a structured curriculum delivered all year round.
We were blessed with fine weather between the rehearsal on the day and the Mass and the children enjoyed their lunch break outside, with the Google Street View car coming to take photographs and ensure that the event lives on!
In his homily, Bishop Terry said the children filled the cathedral with “a wall of sound” as he left the sacristy. He remarked how their singing ranged from music written this year to traditional plainsong written many centuries ago, with singing in English, Greek and Latin.
The first lesson and the bidding prayers were beautifully read by children from attending schools, and the altar servers were also drawn from several schools.
The Diocesan Schools’ Singing Programme is part of the National Schools’ Singing Programme.
What a wonderful year this has been for our children here at St Paulinus in Guisborough.
Since September 2023, all the children from Reception to Year Six have been able to come into church with Maggs Harrison, one of our parishioners, to spend time with Jesus before the exposed Blessed Sacrament.
Our school and parish work hard together, and this is just one of the many ways we are trying to make Christ known to the children and families of our loving community. We are lucky to have the school and church building on the same site but do now take it for granted!
The children have developed their understanding of the Real Presence of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, and what it means for them. They have sung and prayed, experiencing being still with Our Lord. What a joy it has been!
Maggs has been supported each week by one of our priests – Father Phil, Father Paul or Father Jose – and this has helped to draw us all into the mystery of this most beautiful way of being close to the Lord. We are so grateful for the time given by all involved.
Earlier this year we celebrated a whole-school Adoration, which brought all our children together, and we prayed, sung our hearts out and watched as Jesus moved around the church in the Monstrance. It was a truly wonderful time with the children, teachers, parents and parishioners.
There was no more beautiful sound that day than the children singing O, Sacrament Most Holy as the Blessed Sacrament was reposed into the Tabernacle.
We wait with bated breath for the Holy Spirit to reveal what may be in store for us at St Paulinus in the new school year.
Rachel Bircham, Head of School
Andrew Rogers, headteacher of Trinity Catholic College in Middlesbrough, was delighted to see a continued improvement in results.
He said: “It’s fantastic to see some of our pupils’ achievements, with success in a wide range of subjects, and especially to see a larger percentage of our students achieving grades 9 to 7.
“Staff and pupils have collaborated so well, especially during the last 12 months, to ensure progress has been made. We are especially proud of those pupils who have gone above and beyond in their studies to gain grades above their targets.
“Trinity has seen an improvement in results, with notable success stories in English and RE. This upward trend results from all the hard work and energy of the Trinity staff and fabulous pastoral support our young people receive.
“Success is testament to our brilliant students’ character. This cohort has withstood the lockdown disruption at the end of their primary school and first few years of secondary education to show resilience and determination to succeed.
“I wish all the class of 2024 the very best of luck for their futures – well done on your efforts and successes!”
To apply for a place at Trinity Sixth Form, email [email protected] or [email protected].
Nathan B has performed exceptionally well throughout his examinations and has been awarded with grade 9s in all his 12 subjects, including Further Mathematics.
This is an outstanding achievement for an incredibly hardworking, conscientious pupil who has shown tremendous drive in his studies and a courteous attitude throughout.
Nathan is keeping his options open for the future but is strongly considering university after college. We wish Nathan the very best for the future as he moves out of the area to Durham.
Nathan said: “It feels amazing to get the full set of 9s. I’m very proud of this achievement. I want to thank all my teachers but must give a little extra thanks to my English teacher, Miss McCaffrey, and Maths teacher, Mr Spenceley.”
Isaac D has shown outstanding determination, hard work and dedication to his studies throughout his time at Trinity Catholic College.
He has been rewarded with eight grade 9s, including Maths, English, RE and Sciences, a double distinction in Hospitality and Catering and a grade 8 in English Literature.
Isaac said: “I’m overwhelmed, but absolutely delighted. A big thank you to Miss McCaffrey for inspiring me in English.”
Isaac, who would like to study medicine at university, will join us in September at T6, where he will study Biology, Chemistry and Psychology.
Linsey A joined Trinity from Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School in Year 7 and has been a model pupil.
Her hard work and dedication is borne out in her fantastic results.
Having achieved grade 9s in Geography and RE, she also achieved 4 grade 8s and a grade 6 in Additional Maths.
On receiving her results, a very happy Linsey said: “I’m really happy and it’s unexpected how well I’ve done. I must thank all my teachers for helping me get these grades. I’m so pleased.”
Linsey hopes to study biomedical science at university.
Logan P has been on a truly remarkable journey in his time at Trinity.
The former St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School pupil said: “I feel so pleased to get these results and wouldn’t have ever got here without the support of staff like Mr Allen, Mr Smith and Mrs Shaw. I’m buzzing. I can now go to T6 and, of course, be on the ski trip!”
Logan is going to T6 to study Engineering, Physics, Maths and Chemistry. He has ambitions to study medicine.
Logan’s story is inspirational and shows that resilience and determination can make all the difference. The school is extremely proud of your achievements.
St Peter’s Catholic College in South Bank, Middlesbrough, goes from strength to strength, with this year’s results ensuring pupils have the opportunity to fulfil their potential and leave secondary education fully prepared for their future.
Building on improvements across GCSE results over recent years, the school recorded significant improvements across a wide range of subjects, including English, Math, Science, French, Geography, Art and Food Preparation. The number of pupils achieving the elusive grade 8s and 9s has increased five fold.
Headteacher Stephanie Garthwaite said the results show the school’s commitment to academic excellence and ensuring there is no ceiling to what can be achieved at St Peter’s.
Mrs Garthwaite said: “Our pupils have embraced the challenge of this exceptionally arduous exam period with determination, resilience and maturity. I continue to be proud of every single one of them and have enjoyed celebrating their successes with them today.
“As well as achieving some outstanding GCSE results, our pupils have grown into well-rounded young adults ready to live out our mission statement, ‘One Faith, One Family, One Future’.
“I would like to thank the wider St Peter’s family for their ongoing support as our school community continues to flourish, and to thank our staff for their commitment to ensuring every child has the opportunity to achieve their potential.
“I wish every Year 11 pupil every success in their next steps – and remember, you are always part of the St Peter’s family.”
If any Year 11 pupils are interested in continuing their post-16 education within our trust family, there are limited places available for September at Trinity Sixth Form, part of the Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust.
Email [email protected] and someone will contact them to discuss their options.
Ashton P has had a successful five years at St Peter’s, achieving high results in assessments, maintaining top set position and representing the school as head girl.
She has been consistently studious, hardworking and diligent and has been an especially high flyer in French and English.
Today she has achieved outstanding results, with three grade 9s, in French, English Language and Literature, and grade 8s in History and RE. We are immensely proud of Ashton’s fantastic achievements at St Peter’s.
Ashton, who will study for A levels including Politics, Literature and French, hopes to go into corporate contract law.
“I am blown away! It wasn’t easy, but it was definitely worth it. I’m proud of my 9s and 8s and excited about the next chapter. I’m ready for France!”
Teachers have seen Harley S blossom into a resilient, hardworking and determined young man.
Today he has achieved excellent results, setting him up for an amazing future. Harley has grown in confidence and his dedication to his studies has certainly paid off, with grade 9s in English Language and Literature, grade 8s in RE and History and 7s in Maths and Science.
Harley will study got A levels in English Language and Literature and History. He is still undecided about his future career but is definitely excited about the opportunities his GCSE results have given him.
“I am shocked!” he said. “But I am very happy. I want to thank all my teachers and my mum for always believing in me and ensuring I pushed myself to do my very best and reach my potential.”
Jay B, a former pupil of St Mary’s Primary School, Grangetown, has had an incredible journey in St Peter’s, showing strong leadership skills and being a role model, taking part in extracurricular football refereeing and being an outstanding deputy head boy.
Jay has always strived for excellence and has worked exceptionally hard throughout his time here.
Today he has achieved excellent results, with a grade 9 in English Language, grade 8 in French and grade 7s in his remaining subjects.
Earlier this year, Jay was interviewed and successful in achieving a prestigious scholarship with Altrad, a construction and engineering company.
He will continue his further education within NPCAT at T6, Middlesbrough, where he will study Engineering and Physics. His ambition is to go into instrumentation.
“I feel good,” he said. “All the sixth lessons and Saturday sessions certainly paid off! I set myself the goal to achieve a grade 9 and I am super proud of myself for achieving my goal.”
Finley L, a former pupil of St Margaret Clitherow’s Catholic Primary School, South Bank, has consistently been a mature, conscientious and hardworking pupil who has shown leadership skills and been a role model as a prefect.
Today Finley is celebrating some excellent results, including a grade 9 in RE, grade 8s in History and English Language and Literature and a grade 7 in Art.
Finley intends to study Health & Social Care, Biology and Sociology and his ambition is to be a physiotherapist, which we know he will be amazing at!
“I wouldn’t be here without the support of my family and the dedication of my teachers,” he said. “I’m really happy with my results.”
Deborah Law, headteacher of St Patrick’s Catholic College in Thornaby, expressed her delight with this year’s results as the school continues to go from strength to strength.
She said the class of 2024’s results as a true testament to the pupils’ resilience and perseverance and commitment to their education, adding that their dedication has shone through in their achievements.
Results in core subjects continued to improve, including English, Maths, Science and RE, and results improved significantly in a wide range of subjects, including Geography, Engineering and French.
Miss Law said grade 9s are awarded to a very small number of pupils nationally, but St Patrick’s pupils have exceeded the number of top grades 7-9 and the school could not be prouder.
“We are immensely proud of each individual pupil’s success,” she said. “Their unwavering effort and hard work have ensured that they now have a wide range of opportunities as they transition into post-16 studies.
“Many pupils exceeded their initial targets, a remarkable accomplishment made possible by their determination, focus and the continuous support they received from our dedicated teaching staff, families, governors and parish.
“These pupils are an incredible and unique group of young people. They will always hold a special place in the St Patrick’s community, and we are excited to watch them continue to thrive as they move forward in life.
“They are now part of our alumni, and we look forward to hearing about their ongoing successes as they embark on a new journey.
“We also extended an invitation to pupils who may be considering continuing their education within the Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust. For those interested in furthering their post-16 education within our trust family, there are limited spaces available at Trinity Sixth Form.
“We encourage pupils to explore this opportunity for a supportive and high-quality continuation of their education.”
For more information and guidance, email [email protected].
Fern D, a former pupil of Christ the King Catholic Primary school in Thornaby, is ecstatic after achieving an outstanding set of GCSE results.
They include grade 9s across the Ebacc, a set of GCSE subjects that include English, Mathematics, Science, Geography or History and a Modern Foreign Language.
Fern also achieved a level 2 Distinction Star in Health and Social Care and a grade 9 in Religious Education.
The sky’s the limit for Fern, whose hard work and determination sets an excellent example for younger pupils. She has been a great asset to St Patrick’s and has many opportunities coming her way in the future based on these results.
Fern, who hopes to have a career in psychology, said: “Thank you to all the teachers that have supported me throughout my time at St Patrick’s Catholic College – I couldn’t have done it without them.”
Former Christ the King pupil George J is overjoyed with his GCSE results.
George is a conscientious and hardworking pupil who demonstrated great resilience in his studies.
He has been rewarded with grade 8s in Mathematics, Science and Religious Education, as well as a Level 2 Distinction Star in Engineering and a Level 2 Distinction in Sport.
George, who aims to pursue a career in electrical engineering, said: “Utilise revision time. What you put in is what you will get out of it.”
He added his appreciation for all the staff who have supported him through his journey at St Patrick’s.
A former St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School pupil, Alea M is elated with her GCSE results after overcoming personal challenges in the summer term.
Aela had quite a serious physical injury just before her GCSE exams and had to miss key revision time in school.
She showed extraordinary perseverance and continued to maintain a positive mental attitude to reach her potential.
Aela has achieved the Ebacc, a set of GCSE subjects that include English, Mathematics, Science, Geography or History and a Modern Foreign Language.
She also earned a level 2 Distinction in Health and Social Care and a grade 9 in Religious Education.
She is overjoyed with her results and hopes to continue her studies with A levels in History and Law.
Aela’s inspiring words of wisdom to younger pupils are: “Just do your best and let God do the rest.”
Harriett B, a former St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School pupil, has been a conscientious and reflective pupil throughout her time at St Patrick’s Catholic College.
These qualities, as well as outstanding motivation, have enabled her to reach her full potential.
The school is very proud that she has achieved the Ebacc, which includes grade 9s in English Language and Literature, Science, History and Religious Education, as well as a grade 8 in French.
Harriett is planning on studying psychology, early modern History and English at college in the hope of pursuing a career in journalism.
Harriett says to younger pupils: “Try to maintain a positive mental attitude and all will be well,” adding “Thanks to all the teachers who have supported me in my studies.”
Adrija C is elated with her GCSE results, which consist of the highest grades in the Ebacc, including triple Science.
Adrija arrived at St Patrick’s Catholic College from a primary school in India and despite this challenge she has shone throughout her time at St Patrick’s.
She achieved grade 9s in Mathematics, Biology, Religious Education and a Level 2 Distinction Star in Health and Social Care.
Adrija is an independent and reflective pupil who is very inquisitive and seeks out advice and support to help her achieve her full potential.
She hopes to enjoy a career in medicine.
“Study hard, reach for the top and then you will achieve your full potential,” she advised younger pupils.
St Francis Xavier, Richmond, headteacher Jackie Prime said: “Once again, our Year 11 pupils have made us extremely proud of their achievements.
“They have been a fantastic year group to work with and I am delighted to see their hard work and determination being rewarded.
“So many pupils have made great progress and many have achieved and surpassed already ambitious target grades. I look forward to seeing what they will choose to do post-16, having opened up so many opportunities for themselves.
“There are many impressive individual stories. Some pupils have achieved far beyond expectations academically, while others have managed brilliantly during times of real adversity within their own families.
“As a year group, these pupils have truly lived out our ethos of ‘Love of God and Love of Neighbour’. They have helped and supported one another throughout their school journey and have strived to make the most of their academic, sporting and creative talents.
“As a staff, we are thankful for the time we have been able to spend with these pupils during their years at St Francis Xavier School, and we wish them happiness and success in their futures.”
Robbie L has shown remarkable resilience during year 11 and has dealt admirably with a serious accident suffered by his dad, who is a professional jockey.
Having achieved a really strong set of grades, including a 9 in PE and 8 in RE, he said: “I’m really happy with my results. I’ve had a tough year and I couldn’t have achieved this without the support of SFX and my family.”
Robbie will go on to study A levels in Maths, PE, Psychology and Applied Science.
We look forward to seeing his future success.
Ellie S achieved 10 strong GCSEs, including an impressive grade 8 in PE.
Her hard work and determination have allowed her to achieve above target in many of her subjects.
Ellie said: “All the staff and students at SFX have been fantastic. It’s been like being part of one big family.”
She plays for Richmondshire and has played at county level for three years. This year she has captained Yorkshire. Next year she will attend Bishop Burton College, a centre of excellence for rugby, to continue to develop her passion.
Ellie deserves every success in her future.
Niamh C achieved a fantastic set of GCSE results, including many grade 8s and a phenomenal grade 9 in PE.
Throughout her time at SFX Niamh has balanced her studies alongside achieving high standards in dance and athletics at county level.
Niamh said: “The teachers did everything they could to get us the best grades and always looked after us at the same time.”
Niamh will now go on to study A levels in Biology, Physics, PE and Chemistry.
A huge well done from all the staff at SFX.
From day one at St Francis Xavier School, Francis T has shown himself to be a very able and dedicated student.
He took 11 GCSEs, having opted to study Further Maths in his own time. Among his phenomenal results Francis has achieved six grade 9s and three grade 8s.
Francis said: “SFX always supports you to do your best and gives you lots of opportunities.”
He will now study A levels in Maths, Further Maths, Physics and Computer Science.
We can’t wait to see what Francis will achieve in future years.
Louise Dwyer, headteacher of Sacred Heart Catholic Secondary School, Redcar, was delighted with results that were yet again well above the national average.
She said: “At Sacred Heart, our mission is to make sure our young people fulfil their potential and find their future.
“The class of 2024 have truly fulfilled our mission by demonstrating hard work, grit and determination. As a result, they have secured some excellent GCSE results and secured their post-16 destinations.
“We are delighted our school has maintained an upward trajectory when compared to pre-pandemic results. This illustrates the continuous drive for improvement in our school ethos, culture and outcomes.
“We are particularly delighted that some of the most challenging academic subjects, such as English, Maths and French, continue to secure excellent outcomes, especially when compared with the national picture.
Sacred Heart Catholic Secondary School headteacher Louise Dwyer
“Nationally, the percentage of grades 4 and upwards in Maths was 59% and we achieved 82%. In English Language, the national average was 61% and we achieved 83%. In French, the national average was 71% and Sacred Heart pupils achieved 100%.
“Similarly, our extensive suite of vocational subjects has once again seen outstanding progress, particularly in Engineering and Health and Social Care.
“Overall, the class of 2024 have secured more than 200 of the top grades, 7 to 9.
“From the governors, teachers, support staff and I, we wish to extend a heartfelt well done to every one of our pupils as they begin their post-16 journey.
“We are confident that the Catholic values they have been taught at home and here at Sacred Heart, along with some excellent results, will help ensure they have a very bright future ahead.
“Finally, remember it is not too late to join our NPCAT Sixth Form if you wish to continue your education with us.”
For further information contact head of sixth form Phillip Scarr by emailing [email protected].
Ruby L has achieved an outstanding number of top grades with 3 grade 9s in French, Maths and Physics and 4 grade 8s.
Ruby attended St Benedict’s Catholic Primary School before joining Sacred Heart and is going on to study A levels in Maths, Further Maths, Chemistry and Physics.
She has worked incredibly hard throughout the year and has battled against illness in Year 11, which meant she missed an extended period of school, making her outstanding results even more remarkable. Ruby is highly ambitious and wants to go on to university and combine her academic ability with her passion for motor racing, with the ambition of pursuing a career as a Formula One engineer.
Tom M, a former pupil of St Paulinus Catholic Primary School, has achieved a grade 9 in Geography and 7 grade 8s.
He is going on to study A levels in Chemistry, Computer Science and Geography. Tom has kept himself in good physical shape as well as applying himself to his academic studies.
“I found that going to the gym throughout Year 11 has really helped me get the balance right and look after my own mental health,” he said.
When he completes his A levels, Tom hopes to go to university.
Head girl Imogen S achieved two grade 9s and six grade 8s.
Imogen is a former pupil of Coatham Primary School and will go on to study Performing Arts at college.
Throughout her time at Sacred Heart, Imogen has attended weekly singing lessons and a performing arts school every weekend. She also performed in Elf the Musical at Middlesbrough Theatre.
Imogen hopes to achieve her burning ambition of becoming a professional actress.
“I have always wanted to be an actress and all of these grades should help me achieve my dream,” she said.
Jack, a former pupil of Newcomen Primary School, achieved a grade 9 in English Language and five grade 8s.
Jack is going on to a high level apprenticeship in Electrical and Mechanical Engineering with Caterpillar in September.
While studying for his GCSEs, Jack also qualified as a football referee and officiated matches throughout Year 11.
“I’m really pleased and proud of my GCSE results,” he said. “I’m excited to start my apprenticeship in September, which will begin on a college campus before going on day release at the Caterpillar site.”
The overall A level average grade at T6 Sixth Form in Lacy Road, Middlesbrough, increased between 2023 and 2024.
This is echoed in an increased average points score, rising from 28.09 (2023) to 30.65 (2024). Similarly, students achieved a 91% pass rate across all A levels, up 9% on last year.
The newly launched Extended Project Qualification was a resounding success, with 66% of students achieving an A/A* grade.
Significant improvements were seen in A level Biology, English Language, English Literature and Law – with average grade measures rising by one or more grades.
The proportion of students who received AAB in two facilitating subjects increased by 10%. Similarly strong performances were seen in BTEC subjects.
Head of sixth form Phillip Scarr said: “We are immensely proud of our students’ achievements.
“Exam success is testament to our students’ character. This cohort has withstood the lockdown disruption in Years 9, 10 and 11, owing to the pandemic.
“Thanks also goes to our amazing T6 staff, who have shown resilience, care and expertise in equal measure to ensure students fulfil their potential.
“I wish our Year 13 cohort all the best for their future.”
To enrol at T6 Sixth Form, contact [email protected].
Sophie secures her place at Medical School
Sophie Rashid showed resilience throughout her time at T6 Sixth Form to secure Medicine at Manchester University.
Sophie earned As in Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Physics. As part of her enrichment she completed an Extended Project on breast cancer, for which she earned an A* grade.
Sophie attended St Edward’s Catholic Primary School and Trinity Catholic College before choosing T6 as her further education provider. Throughout this time Sophie has shown outstanding dedication to her studies and unrelenting support for our ethos and standards.
Sophie said: “I am relieved and glad all my hard work has paid off. I have really enjoyed my time as part of the NPCAT family from primary school through to T6. I would also like to thank all my teachers for their help and support.”
History buff Joseph heads off to Durham
Joseph Roche
Joseph Roche excelled in his T6 studies to gain a place at Durham University where he will study English Literature.
Joseph secured an A* in History and A grades in English Language, English Literature and his Extended Project.
Joseph’s NEA piece for A Level History featured an outstanding essay on Tsarist and Soviet Economic Development. His Extended Project focused on History curriculum content at secondary level in local schools. This is testament to his passion for teaching and education.
Joseph attended Outwood Academy Acklam Secondary School before choosing T6 as his further education provider. In his time here he has thrived both in and out of the classroom, supporting the sixth form through the oracy skills he has developed in his time here.
Joseph said: “I am very proud and have exceeded my expectations in my A level results. I would like to thank all my teachers and a special thanks to my mum.”
Soccer ace Will scores place on sports course
Will Gatiss
T6 Football Academy student Will Gatiss earned top grades and is looking forward to a career in Sport at Teesside University.
Will chose to join T6 Sixth Form from Laurence Jackson Secondary School in Guisborough to gain first-class academic qualifications while also developing his football career.
Will achieved a Double Distinction in Double BTEC Sport and a Distinction in BTEC Business. His teachers are thrilled with Will’s well-deserved success.
Head of T6 Football Academy Dave McTiernan said: “Will has always been a joy to work with and was instrumental in contributing to the team winning the league in Year 2. He has always been a hugely valued member of the Football Academy, both on and off the pitch.”
Will said: “I am very happy with the results I have achieved, and I am excited about my next steps in sport at Teesside University. I would like to thank all my teachers and a special thank you to the T6 Football coaching team.”
Hard work pays off for gifted Paige
Paige Heseltine combined natural academic flair with endeavour to achieve outstanding A Level Results.
Paige achieved an A* grade in Chemistry, an A in Mathematics and a B in Physics. Paige has spent all her education in the NPCAT family, attending St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School and Trinity Catholic College Secondary School.
Paige will use these excellent grades to go on to study Chemistry at the University of York.
“I am delighted with my A Level results and would like to thank all my teachers and T6 staff,” she said.
The headteacher of St Gerard’s Catholic Primary School in Hemlington, Middlesbrough, has welcomed a report that praises her school as a “haven of calm”, in stark contrast to the negative headlines its estate sometimes attracts.
Joanne Coe was delighted with a “good” judgement from Ofsted, and especially with the warm words from the inspectors.
“I am absolutely delighted that St Gerard’s has been recognised as a haven of calm for our pupils,” Joanne said. “Hemlington has been at the forefront of lots of negative press in the last few years, but I can say that it’s a genuinely wonderful place to work.
“The children are an absolute delight to be around, and the support we receive from our families is truly incredible. To know that the children feel loved and cared for is simply amazing and everything we aim to achieve.”
The report highlights reading, maths and help for children with special educational needs and abilities as particular strengths, saying the teaching and learning model put in place by Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust (NPCAT) is implemented consistently across the school.
“Staff make the school a haven of calm for pupils,” it says. “The school’s Catholic values and clear behaviour policy help to teach pupils about the importance of behaving responsibly.
“Pupils understand the significance of the school’s nine virtues, such as respectfulness and decency. These virtues reinforce high expectations and make pupils feel loved and cared for at St Gerard’s.
“Pupil conduct in lessons and at playtime is impressive. Pupil sports leaders plan and support lunchtime activities. This develops their self-confidence and communication skills.
“Pupils reflect positively on the school’s programme to support their mental health. Pupil ‘happiness heroes’ support the well-being of their peers.
“The school proactively works with external agencies and the local authority to support pupils with SEND. The school has made vast improvements in adapting tasks for pupils with SEND.
“The local governing body holds leaders to account through a clear trust framework. The link governors visit the school termly to challenge and support leaders at all levels.
NPCAT CEO Hugh Hegarty shared his praise for this school and acknowledged the work undertaken by the leaders and staff.
“It’s wonderful to see St Gerard’s continue to offer a quality Catholic education and I am sure this will be welcomed by the entire St Mary’s Cathedral parish community,” he said. “There is a coherence and consistency to their reporting.”
Joanne said the inspectors’ positive comments also reflect her experiences of working with families on an estate that has its challenges.
“St Gerard’s is a special place to be part of and I feel incredibly lucky to be able to lead a team of dedicated and hardworking staff who go above and beyond for the pupils in our care,” she said.
“I would like to say a huge thanks to the team of leaders, teachers, support staff, including lunchtime supervisors, office staff, kitchen staff, cleaners and the site operative, who all work tirelessly to ensure our children are provided with the best care and education possible every day. Thanks must also go to NPCAT members for their support.
“We could not have achieved what we have without the support of the whole school community – our parents and carers, governors, parish, the diocese, our incredible staff and last but by no means least, our incredible children. We will continue to build on everything that we have achieved so far, and St Gerard’s will go from strength to strength.”
Chair of governors Don Lillistone added: “The Ofsted inspection report is a testimony both to the professional expertise of the staff and to their deep personal commitment to the education and wellbeing of every pupil.”
St Gerard’s, which is on Avalon Court, has 186 pupils aged from three to 11. NPCAT is a family of 38 Catholic schools throughout North Yorkshire and Teesside. All 32 of its primary schools are rated good or outstanding by Ofsted.
Howzat! A Middlesbrough school where pupils excel at cricket has hit the sweet spot with a striking Ofsted report that judged it to be good overall and outstanding in two fields.
Inspectors said St Alphonsus’ Catholic Primary School in North Ormesby is outstanding in the areas of Behaviour and Attitudes and Personal Development.
Ofsted said leaders work tirelessly to support families, as well as the pupils, through initiatives including an eco-shop opened during the financial crisis and engaging with a local charity that purchases sportswear for every pupil.
“Pupils at St Alphonsus’ are exceptionally polite, kind and caring,” the report states. “This is a very inclusive school. Pupils are tolerant and accepting of others. They enjoy coming to school and attend well. Pupils are very proud of their school. They are keen to show visitors the work they do and the trophies they have won.
“The school has very high expectations for all pupils. Staff help pupils to be successful in later life.
“Pupils’ behaviour is exemplary. Pupils have impeccable manners. The school is calm. There are warm relationships and high levels of respect between pupils and adults.
“Leaders are determined that pupils will leave St Alphonsus equipped for life in the world. The school welcomes the support offered by the wider trust network.
“Governors have different experiences and skills. They use these to support the school effectively.
“Staff are proud to work in this school and feel valued. Parents appreciate the support the school offers them.”
Headteacher Angela McCann said the glowing report is testament to all the hard work of pupils, staff and governors.
“Our mission of ‘Learning, serving, loving with Christ’, is at the centre of everything we do,” she said. “Our high expectations, relationships and learning are rooted in the teachings of Christ, and we encourage children to be the very best that they can be by learning with each other, serving each other and loving each other.
“In partnership with home, school, parish and community, we are dedicated to working together to develop children who achieve spiritually, academically, socially and emotionally.
“We encourage our pupils to try new things, to be creative, resilient and to constantly strive to improve.
“The school is often described as a ‘safe haven’ or an ‘oasis’ where we nurture and care for our pupils, with staff regularly going that extra mile, and we value the trust families place in us.”
St Alphonsus’ pupils swept the board in competitions run by Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust (NPCAT), winning all four NPCAT Sport cricket competitions for year 3/4 boys and year 5/6 boys’ and girls’ teams.
All went on to represent the trust at the North Yorkshire Cricket finals, where two of the teams won silver medals as runners-up.
Both year 5/6 teams then represented both NPCAT Sport and North Yorkshire Cricket at the Yorkshire finals in Leeds, with the girls’ team coming third in a competition that involved around 800 schools.
Cricket at St Alphonsus’ isn’t just for the summer months, the bats and stumps are set up all year round.
Every break time and lunchtime the children make for the wicket as soon as they go out onto the yard, with even reception children joining in the fun!
“Two of our teaching assistants in particular give up their lunch and break times to help coach the children ready for competitions,” said Angela. “We also have some sports leaders who are now coaching younger children in sport.”
St Alphonsus’, which is on Cadogan Street, has 244 pupils aged from three to 11, including a nursery.
CEO Hugh Hegarty said: “A huge congratulations to the pupils and staff of St Alphonsus’ who continue to demonstrate our trust’s values.”
All 32 NPCAT primary schools are rated good or outstanding by Ofsted.
