Nicholas Postgate

Children at a Middlesbrough primary school gave mayor Chris Cooke a tough grilling when he visited to talk about his role and open their new play area.
Mr Cooke was one of people from a wide range of jobs and careers who were invited to talk to pupils at St Thomas More Catholic Primary in Easterside about what they do.
They asked him how he got into politics, why he felt he had the right qualities for the role and even how much he earned!
“They were very well-informed, and I think they got a lot from it, which is good to see,” said Mr Cooke.
“It’s great to be invited and important to see what the challenges are and find out what’s happening in the local community and if there are any worries or anything we can help with.”
Later Mr Cooke opened a new play area, with the help of some of the school’s younger pupils.
The equipment is part of a multi-million-pound capital investment programme this summer by Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust, which runs 38 schools across Teesside and North Yorkshire.
Work will continue during the summer holidays to create new allotments and an outdoor relaxation area at St Thomas More.
Ofsted inspectors who visited recently judged the school to be good overall and good in all areas, saying children are proud to be part of the community.
“This is a welcoming and inclusive school,” the report said. “Pupils celebrate the kind and caring attitudes pupils and staff have towards each other.
“The care they receive from staff is key to the warm relationships shared across the school community. There is a strong sense of belonging here shared by pupils, staff and leaders. Leaders are tenacious in supporting pupils and their families.
“Leaders and staff have high expectations and ambitions for all pupils here. The curriculum matches these aims. The aims and ambitions are also shared by those responsible for governance. Pupils rise to the expectations set by leaders.”
Executive headteacher Liz King is delighted with the report and said the new facilities will help the school offer children even more opportunities.
“Ofsted said one of our strengths is the personal development element of the opportunities we provide for our children,” she said. “We are in the top five per cent most deprived areas in the country, so we try to ensure that our children get every opportunity they can.
“Ofsted commented on how inclusive we are, that everybody is included. No matter what their background is, everyone here is valued for their individual talents.
“The inspectors picked up the school’s family feel straight away and said the children are proud to come to St Thomas More and proud of Easterside.
“We’re also proud to be part of  the community of Easterside and proud of the children and the families we serve. We just want the very best for them.”

New play facilities at St Thomas More Catholic Primary School in Middlesbrough – Photo by Michael McGeary

NCPAT CEO Hugh Hegarty said: “The ongoing enhancement in our schools is a powerful illustration of the multiple benefits of being part of NPCAT.
“Part of that mission involves raising aspirations by bringing in visitors from similar backgrounds who have been successful in a wide range of fields to meet the children.”
Head of school Ciara Smith asked the mayor to come and speak and was delighted when he agreed.
“We want the children to know there’s a whole range of careers out there, they don’t all have to be footballers, which is what they all seem to want to be,” she said.
“They need to know that just because they’re from Easterside doesn’t mean that they can achieve whatever they want to.
“Raising aspirations is important because poverty is the biggest issue here and one way of breaking that cycle is through education.
“We’re fortunate to have the grounds we have here and we’re really grateful to the trust for the investment they’re making.”
During his visit, Mr Cooke revealed details of a new initiative that he says will make a big difference for schools such as St Thomas More.
“We’re going to make a decision on auto-enrollment of free school meals in Middlesbrough, which will be a massive change and will help schools like this one,” he said.
“It would mean Middlesbrough seeking approval to do free school meals centrally. They’ve done this in Sheffield and it meant 5,000 children got meals who previously weren’t getting them, and about £3.8m went to local schools in additional pupil premium money from the government.
“That’s exactly what we need in Middlesbrough, to make sure every child who’s eligible gets those meals, regardless of whether they’ve filled in forms or not, and that the schools get the pupil premium money they’re entitled to.”

A Middlesbrough school where “everyone is made to feel welcome” is celebrating an Ofsted inspection that saw it graded “outstanding” in two areas.

The report rated St Bernadette’s Catholic Primary School in Nunthorpe – part of the Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust (NPCAT) – as “good” overall and “outstanding” for both Behaviour and Attitudes and Personal Development.

“This is a school where everyone is made to feel welcome,” the inspectors said. “Caring staff ensure that pupils feel safe and they are well cared for. A typical comment from parents and carers is that the school ‘is like an extended family.’”

Throughout their visit, inspectors noted the school’s determination for all children to succeed.
“The school is ambitious for all pupils to achieve success, including pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). This is realised in many subjects, particularly in reading where pupils consistently achieve exceptionally well.

“Teachers make sure that learning is enjoyable. Pupils enjoy their lessons and talk knowledgeably about what they have learned.”

The report praises St Bernadette’s “exceptional” enrichment programme, which it says ensures pupils engage with the local community, with events such as growing food for neighbouring residents, litter picking and supporting local charities.

“Pupils’ behaviour is exemplary. Pupils treat each other with respect and kindness. They concentrate extremely well in lessons.

“The carefully structured curriculum begins in early years where children get off to a flying start. Strong relationships between children and staff, ensure children develop positive attitudes towards learning. The school’s provision for pupils’ personal development is exceptional.” 

Delighted headteacher Sarah Brady said: “St Bernadette’s is a thriving, joyful school, working within the Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust.

“Our school vision is, ‘We will be courageous and inspire each other to excellence, shining in the light of Christ and making a positive impact on the world’.

“This vision is lived out every day by our children and staff, who create a harmonious environment where all children can succeed and all children feel valued.

“We are so proud of our school family for all of their hard work and of the dedication they show to our remarkable pupils.

“I would like to give special thanks to our wonderful governors, parents, staff and wider trust family for their support and commitment to ensuring our school is always the best it can be.”

NPCAT CEO Hugh Hegarty said: “The supportive parents and governors, along with all the staff, clearly evidence what can be achieved in our schools when the shared vision and determination to work in partnership is realised at all levels on a daily basis.

“I want to thank Ms Brady and all the team for their unrelenting commitment to all the pupils at St Bernadette’s Catholic Primary School.”

St Bernadette’s, which is in Cookgate, has 230 pupils aged from three to 11.

The appointment of a new leadership team is helping bring about “rapid improvement” at a North Yorkshire primary school, Ofsted says.

Inspectors judged Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School in Northallerton – one of 38 North Yorkshire and Teesside schools that make up Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust (NPCAT) – to be good in all areas and gave it a good overall rating.

“Sacred Heart Primary School has recently undergone significant change,” the report says. “Leaders have improved the quality of education for pupils. The curriculum is ambitious. The school has identified the important knowledge they want pupils to learn. There is also a strong focus on vocabulary.

“The school is now run by an executive team. They also have responsibility for another trust school in North Yorkshire (All Saints Catholic Primary in Thirsk).
“This leadership model has supported rapid improvement. Parents are overwhelmingly positive about the current provision in the school. Staff are proud to work at the school. “They appreciate how leaders listen to feedback. Governors and trustees know the school’s strengths and areas for development well.”

Ofsted said Sacred Heart pupils enjoy coming to school and are proud to live up to Sacred Heart’s vision of “being the best you can be”.

“The school has high expectations for the quality of education,” it said. “Pupils achieve well. They benefit from the well-designed curriculum the trust has helped to put in place. Pupils look forward to their lessons and enjoy positive relationships with staff.

“Pupils increasingly benefit from a curriculum that extends beyond the academic.”

Executive headteacher Paul Conway, who was appointed last September, welcomed the report and said the improvements were a real team effort.

“We are so proud of the significant improvements we are making and continue to make,” he said. “It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team and the tremendous support of the central NPCAT team.

“It’s great that Ofsted has recognised the ambitious curriculum we have put in place and how prioritising vocabulary and a positive reading culture has truly made a difference in the quality of education for our pupils.

“It is also heartening to see such positive feedback from parents, staff, governors and trustees. We are grateful for their support and commitment to our school community.

“This recognition from Ofsted is a validation of our efforts, but we will continue to strive to make even more progress to ensure we offer the children of Northallerton the very best education possible.

“We would encourage families with young children to visit our thriving early years provision and see for themselves what we have to offer.”

Recently appointed chair of governors Graham McCartney added: “I would like to express my gratitude to school leaders and the committed and loyal staff for this judgement.
“Our strengths have been recognised and governors are confident that as a combined team, we are well placed to drive further developments, and continue the trajectory of our ambitious programme of continuous improvement.”

NPCAT’s CEO Hugh Hegarty said: “Northallerton children deserve quality education and parents have shared the journey as we continue to grow the very best provision in this wonderful community and parish.”

Sacred Heart, on Broomfield Avenue, currently has 99 pupils aged from three to 11.  

Inspectors have praised a North Yorkshire school that is “built on love” as they rated it “good” in all areas.

Ofsted says All Saints Catholic Primary School in Thirsk – which is part of Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust (NPCAT) – is a place where “everybody is made to feel welcome”.

“Highly effective leaders have led the school through a period of rapid change,” their report says. “The trust has provided training and support to improve every aspect of the school since it opened as part of the trust.

“The curriculum is ambitious and well thought through. Pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), learn well. Children in the early years get off to a strong start.”

Delighted executive headteacher Paul Conway said everyone at the school is “immensely proud” of the report.

“We are grateful to the knowledge and expertise from our trust team and governors for supporting us in our ambitions to build a faith school Thirsk can be proud of,” he said.

“We are also grateful to our loyal families for being a steadfast support to us throughout this period of change.

“Most importantly, we are proud of our staff and children for embracing our culture of love and high expectations. We are pleased our reputation is recognised locally and would continue to welcome new families of all faiths to our school family.”

Ofsted says All Saints offers lots of after-school clubs for all pupils, including those who are disadvantaged.

“Pupils particularly enjoy the different sporting competitions they can take part in,” it says.

“There are also opportunities to celebrate pupils’ achievements in music, for example, by singing at a local cathedral.

“The school makes sure pupils have wider experiences beyond the curriculum. Pupils learn about the world of work when visitors come in to talk about their jobs.

“They have opportunities to take on responsibilities, such as being helpers at lunchtime, or pupil ambassadors. Pupils are very proud to take on these responsibilities. They serve as good role models for other pupils.

“Governors and trustees know the school well. They provide excellent support and challenge to help leaders continually improve the school.”

Trust associate senior lead Amanda Hick said: “As a school family, we are extremely proud of all our children, our community and our staff.

“It has been a real team effort to achieve such a positive Ofsted outcome. It’s thanks to the dedication and support of all our stakeholders that we are where we are today.”

NPCAT CEO Hugh Hegarty said: “We have taken this once failing school and turned it around. Today, the entire community can celebrate, but most importantly, our wonderful pupils are experiencing such a rich and nurturing learning environment with high expectations on a daily basis.

“This vision being realised is the result of a significant deployment of resources and the work of our fantastic team at All Saints, the governors and the entire NPCAT team.”

The school, which is on Green Lane East, Sowerby, has 86 pupils aged from three to 11, including a nursery.

NPCAT is a family of 38 Catholic schools throughout North Yorkshire – including the city of York – and Teesside.

Two elite youth football teams based at T6 Trinity Catholic College in Middlesbrough pipped rivals from top pro clubs to win two coveted league titles at just the second attempt.

Middlesbrough FC/T6 Academy under-19s clinched the National Football Youth League North-East Premier Division with a game to spare.

Meanwhile, T6’s under-17 team, comprising first-year players aged 16 and 17, secured the National Football Youth League North East Championship, beating rivals Sheffield United into second place.

What makes the achievement even more remarkable is that the team – run by Middlesbrough-based T6 Trinity Catholic Sixth Form in an exclusive partnership with Middlesbrough Football Club – was only formed two years ago.

Head of T6 football academy Dave McTiernan – who was a trainee in Boro’s acclaimed academy before enjoying a career in non-league football – said: “Winning the league titles in such a competitive environment is a testament to the talent and commitment of our players and staff.

“To see our players rise to this level within a short period is truly remarkable. It has been a fantastic journey for us.

“We didn’t realise quite how much talent there is in Teesside and North Yorkshire, but we’re proving we’re up among the best in the country.”

Backed by Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust (NPCAT), the T6 Academy boasts impressive facilities at its Phoenix Park home on Lacy Road, including high-quality grass and 4G pitches, a strength and conditioning suite including weights and cardiovascular areas and a video analysis room.

“Our facilities are excellent and are still being upgraded and that’s helped us,” said Mr McTiernan. “Families and fellow students and staff come along to game and it’s starting to really grow within NPCAT, not just within the academy.”

Some T6 Football students also represent semi-professional football clubs, while others have secured scholarships in the United States.

Notable individual achievements include striker Kayden winning the golden boot with an impressive tally of 29 goals so far.

“Last year Alfie Steele won it and went on to sign for Hartlepool United, so we’re hoping this will encourage professional clubs to come and look at Kayden,” said Mr McTiernan.

“Getting to the level we have within a couple of years is brilliant. Together with Alfie joining Hartlepool and making his debut, the title win has capped off a thoroughly successful year.”

“Our success results from the dedication and expertise of our staff, who have played a crucial role in shaping the players’ careers.

“The partnership with Middlesbrough Football Club is invaluable and I can’t praise them enough. We’ve been able to use their training facilities, we play in Boro kits and they’re always there to offer support. None of our players have progressed into their system yet, but who knows what the future holds?”

As well as their football training, T6 students also study for qualifications including A-levels and BTECs.

Recruits all have outstanding youth football pedigrees, with most having narrowly missed out on scholarships with professional clubs. 

Most of the T6 students come from secondary schools in the NPCAT family, but there are also trainees from as far away as York and Northallerton. 

CEO Hugh Hegarty paid tribute to all the staff and thanked parents for embracing the programme.

“NPCAT continues to be system-leading and this is a further example of our determination to have a positive impact on our communities. Congratulations to the players!”

Inspectors have praised a Redcar school where an “exciting” range of library books inspires a love of reading in its pupils.
The Ofsted inspection of St Benedict’s Catholic Primary School in Redcar was not graded, but the report said “the evidence gathered suggests the grade might be outstanding if a graded inspection were carried out now”.
The school’s efforts to ensure children benefit from a lifelong love of reading earn especially warm approval.
“The school inspires a love of reading for pupils,” the report says. “They are excited about the wide range of books in the school library.
“Leaders have embedded an excellent reading culture in the school. Pupils learn to read quickly and confidently. Pupils’ progress is checked diligently. The school provides effective support for pupils who struggle with reading. As a result, they catch up quickly.”
Trust CEO Hugh Hegarty praised the school leaders and governors, whose hard work he said had laid down the foundations for Ofsted’s glowing report.
“Their total commitment has ensured that Redcar children continue to be offered fantastic Catholic education, where everyone is welcome,” he said.
“I would also like to thank the trust’s Primary Standards team for supporting the continued development of excellent provision.”
Acting headteacher Suzanne Dickinson said she was extremely proud of everyone at the school and delighted that Ofsted acknowledged their efforts.
“This report is a testament to the hard work, perseverance and unwavering determination of our pupils, staff and parents alike,” she said.
“The report acknowledges an ambitious curriculum, which was demonstrated through the deep dives in reading, maths and history.
“The work over the last three years to further develop our curriculum highlights the quality of leadership and education St Benedict’s provides for every child. We are committed to ensuring we deliver a curriculum that challenges and inspires all pupils to reach their full potential.”

Pupils at St Benedict’s Catholic Primary School in Redcar celebrate their Ofsted visit

Ofsted said pupils are proud to attend the school, where they “thrive”. Their behaviour is exemplary at all times of the school day and “an exceptional variety of activities” are on offer at lunchtimes.
“Pupils benefit from an ambitious curriculum. Leaders are passionate and experts in their subjects,” it says.
“Pupils with SEND (Special educational needs and disabilities) follow the same ambitious curriculum as their peers. Pupils with SEND are identified early. They receive the help they need. They achieve well and are fully involved in the life of the school.
“Passionate and knowledgeable teachers make learning exciting. Pupils are attentive and enthusiastic in lessons. Pupils talk about their learning with confidence and accuracy.”
Mrs Dickinson added: “We have a team approach, based upon the generous sharing of individual gifts by all pupils, staff, parents, governors and parish.
“Our strength comes from the whole St Benedict’s community – home, school and parish – working together and appreciating and encouraging everyone’s contribution.
“This community is a shining example of how working together can lead to remarkable achievements. Together we have built an environment that nurtures our students, instils in them a love for learning, and empowers them to become competent and independent individuals.”
Executive headteacher Kendra Sill added: “This report reflects the commitment of all leaders and staff. We have been relentless in our ambition to provide the very best for the children.
“St Benedict’s is a truly outstanding place to be, and although no areas of improvement were identified, the leadership team will continue to strive to offer the very best education. Pupils are proud to attend this school as are the staff who we are indebted to for their unwavering dedication.”
St Benedict’s, which has 388 pupils, is one of 38 schools throughout Teesside and North Yorkshire, including the city of York, that make up Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust (NPCAT).
Ofsted said governors provide effective support and challenge to school leaders and that St Benedict’s benefits from the development and support of the trust.
St Benedict’s was also rated outstanding in its latest Diocese of Middlesbrough inspection.

Taking part in the Eskdale Festival of the Arts has sparked a love of performing that now extends throughout the year at a North Yorkshire school.
Gifted pupils from St Hedda’s Catholic Primary School in Egton Bridge came away with an impressive haul of prizes after showcasing their talents for the second consecutive year, having sampled the spotlight at the 2023 event.
School governor Leanne Coates, who helped prepare the children for their performances, said taking part in the festival has sparked a passion for the performing arts at St Hedda’s.
“What started off as a drama club just so we could enter the Eskdale Festival soon ignited into something much bigger,” she said.
“We’ve enjoyed seeing the children take on the challenge of learning their parts. Some children who wouldn’t always speak up in class suddenly wanted to be on stage.
“The transformation in those children was astounding. Their confidence flourished and it made me realise we couldn’t just do the festival then stop and we have since put on performances of Matilda and The Grinch.
“The children have learnt so much, working as a team, developing listening skills and building their confidence even more. Seeing their personalities coming out on stage is a delight.
“The staff have all played a huge part in getting the children and school ready. St Hedda’s feels like one big, happy family!”

Pupils from Year 1 to Year 6 scooped first, second and third prizes in the verse-speaking category after reading poems by AA Milne and Wes Magee.
Delighted judges praised them for speaking out well, expressing their feelings and recreating the atmosphere of the poem.
Four children came first in the choral speaking category, with one judge saying: “You all had energy and really enjoyed expressing the script – well done!”
Two girls won first prize for a duologue poetry recitation and a Year 4 pupil took first prize for her piano solo performance of two songs.
Executive headteacher Kendra Sill was delighted with the children’s confidence and how well they performed and thanked parents and carers for all their support.
“Oracy and performance are so important to us at St Hedda’s, and the judges’ notes mention the wonderful promise our pupils show,” she said.

St Hedda’s School in Egton Bridge is celebrating successes in the Eskdale Festival 2024

“It was lovely to hear positive comments from people attending the festival about the high standards of behaviour and performance from the children.
“We are so proud of you for all of your hard work letting your lights shine so brightly.”
Some of the children were invited to perform at the Best of the Festival concert on Saturday (March 16).
Established in 1903, the festival takes place in Whitby every March to help inspire and create opportunities for young people in music, drama, dance, art and speech.
St Hedda’s is part of the Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust, which runs 38 schools across Teesside and North Yorkshire, including the city of York.

A York school where classrooms are “calm and focused places to learn” has been handed a glowing report by Ofsted.
St Aelred’s Primary – part of the Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust family of 38 schools throughout North Yorkshire and Teesside – was rated as good in all areas and good overall.
Inspectors said: “St Aelred’s is a welcoming school. Pupils are proud to attend. They know and understand the school values of friendship, courage and respect. Pupils demonstrate these values in their attitudes to learning and relationships with each other and with staff. “Pupils show maturity and confidence when talking about a range of issues. Equality and fairness are a key part of school life.
“School leadership roles such as school councillors and anti-bullying ambassadors are celebrated.
“Rapid progress is evident in the pace of change to strengthen the curriculum and improve behaviour in school. Classrooms are calm and focused places to learn. Pupils benefit from clear school rules. Their positive attitudes and hard work are rewarded in different ways.”
Delighted headteacher Claire Hughes, who took over at St Aelred’s last April, said a real team effort was the secret of the Fifth Avenue school’s success.
“It’s wonderful to celebrate this positive outcome, which recognises the many strengths of our school,” she said.
“The report is testament to the hard work and commitment of our dedicated staff team who go above and beyond in their daily roles to support the children at St Aelred’s.
“Partnership working and links with the community are a critical aspect of school life and this is far reaching, with involvement from stakeholders including governors, parents and carers and the parish, who are all committed to and invested in helping our children flourish and grow.
“We have worked hard to drive forward several key improvements this year, including changes to our curriculum, more extracurricular activities and a new behaviour strategy, and we are delighted to have this work positively recognised.”
Inspectors said school trips help pupils learn beyond the classroom and praised after-school activities such as dance and art clubs.
They added: “Stakeholders, such as governors, trustees and trust leaders, are proactive in holding leaders to account. They have the same high expectations as leaders.
“The school has high expectations for pupils’ behaviour and positive attitudes to learning. Pupils know and understand the clear and effective school rules. Pupils can see how recent changes to behaviour have improved the school. Children in early years are well supported to work in familiar routines and structures. They play and learn together well.
“The school has a rigorous and well-planned curriculum for all pupils, including pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Pupils benefit from teaching that helps them to build the small steps of knowledge that they need to be successful.”
Mrs Hughes thanked her dedicated team, including teachers, support staff and leaders who had worked so hard to secure this outcome.
She said: “They bring such dedication and commitment to our children through their various roles in school and their work within the wider community.
“The school has also benefited significantly from the support of NPCAT in moving forward key aspects of school improvement this year, and leaders and governors are extremely grateful for the support that has been afforded to the school through this partnership.
“We look forward to building on the many strengths identified within the report in our next stages of school improvement at St Aelred’s.”
CEO of NPCAT Hugh Hegarty said: “Mrs Hughes has had a significant impact since her appointment in April and the capacity of the trust to support leaders and staff at all levels has also been hugely important.
“The support from St Aelred’s governors has been and continues to be so highly valued by both the trust and the school.
“We look forward to continuing to work in partnership with St Aelred’s and to the impact of NPCAT reaping benefits for all the school’s pupils in the years ahead.”

A Catholic primary school where behaviour and attitudes to learning are “exceptional” might be rated as outstanding if a full inspection was held today, Ofsted says.

Inspectors who visited for an ungraded inspection described Christ the King Catholic Primary School in Thornaby as “positive and welcoming” and that pupils feel “happy and safe”.

They said: “The evidence gathered suggests that the inspection grade might be outstanding if a graded (section 5) inspection were carried out now.

“Behaviour and attitudes to learning are exceptional. Pupils take care of one another and their school community with pride.

“Pupil groups, such as sports leaders and eco-warriors, plan purposeful opportunities to help and enhance the whole school community.

“Leaders have developed an ambitious and well-connected curriculum. It carefully sets out what pupils need to know and remember over time. Well-chosen and purposeful learning activities bring the curriculum to life.

“Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are well supported to work alongside their peers. Careful adaptations and resources help pupils with SEND learn in the classroom. The school makes sure these pupils get additional support from other professionals when needed.

“High expectations for behaviour start in early years. Routines are clear. Children access their learning with sustained focus in this part of the school. This continues for older pupils. Pupils in Key Stage 1 and 2 behave impeccably well.”

Executive headteacher Mark Ryan said the report reflects the school’s many strengths and how well we prepare children for their next stages in life, both academically and socially.

“This is wonderful news for the school community and is a clear reflection of all the hard work from the pupils, parents, carers, staff and governors,” he said.

“Christ the King is a hidden jewel in Thornaby and there are many comments in the inspection report that parents and carers will be rightly proud and pleased to read.

“We are very grateful for the benefits that come with being part of Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust and the support we receive.”

Head of school Helen Lickess added: “There are no recommendations or areas for improvement from Ofsted. However, we want to continue to improve and we will work hard collectively with our parents, carers and pupils to do so.

“This report clearly identifies how well behaved our pupils are, how well they do in lessons and the work we carry out within our community.

“We are delighted for the pupils, parents, carers, teachers and governors. They have every right to be proud of their school.”

Christ the King is one of 38 schools throughout Teesside and North Yorkshire, including the city of York, that make up Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust.

CEO Hugh Hegarty said: “I’m so pleased for the leadership team, staff and governors of Christ the King, who I know work so hard every day to make the school such a special place.

“The report is yet more evidence of the high standards we set across all our schools. We are all determined to continue raising standards even further to make sure all our children benefit from the very best in Catholic education.”

The school retains its overall judgement as good and its next visit from Ofsted will be a graded inspection.