Mackenzie comes home to inspire school’s colourful transformation

1st October 2025Dodio Dodio

World-renowned artist Mackenzie Thorpe returned to his beloved Teesside to unveil a stunning new art display.

Middlesbrough-born Mackenzie has been collaborating with talented pupils from St Paulinus Catholic Primary School in Guisborough, giving bespoke tutorials to inspire their efforts.

The vibrant art, which features local scenes such as Roseberry Topping and Gisborough Priory together with Mackenzie’s signature love heart motif, now brightens the school’s entrance and playground for all to enjoy.

During his visit, Mackenzie praised the special “vibe” at St Paulinus, adding:

“Some schools I’ve been to don’t touch this one. I just wanted to say that for all your staff and for you. You’re so privileged and so lucky to be here.”

He told the children he began drawing in the fireplace ashes in the family’s Cannon Park home and he still draws every day of his life.

“There’s only one person who draws like me and there’s only one person who draws like you,” he said.

And he told them they can do whatever they want to if they work hard and put their heart and soul into it.

Speaking about his love for Teesside, he said:

“I can only talk about it as a spirit. It’s the men I grew up with in the shipyards or the foundries and what I always taught as a kid – you don’t let anybody down, you respect everybody and you don’t get too big for your boots or forget who you are.”

As part of the project, art subject lead Mrs Rathbone took pupils to the art department at Redcar’s Sacred Heart Secondary School, which like St Paulinus is part of Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust (NPCAT).

St Paulinus head of school Rachel Bircham said the new display reflects the school’s mission and values and its commitment to the community.

“Celebrating our school community has always been central to the vision we had for this project,”

“Our PACE values – perseverance, ambition, community and empathy – are woven into everything, from our curriculum to relationships to fundraising events.

“We aim to offer the very best education so that all our pupils go on to achieve great success throughout their lives. We recognise that every person has their own God-given talents, and we are all God’s work of art.

“This project also fits perfectly with our mission statement of ‘Love one another as I have loved you’, which is the beating heart of all we do.

“The idea of displaying local scenes with the theme of ‘love’ led us to Mackenzie and we were so thrilled when he agreed to work with us. The children loved learning about the artist himself, as well as developing new skills.

“Mackenzie is passionate about our area and the pieces he has created are inspirational. We love his style of art and how it celebrates Teesside.

“Seeing the smiles on people’s faces as they go by our school is a true blessing. Our children should be incredibly proud of themselves and of our school.

“We couldn’t be happier with this project and want to thank everyone who has worked tirelessly to make it possible.”

One of the proud St Paulinus pupils, Albee, said:

“I was happy to meet Mackenzie Thorpe as I’d never had the chance to meet anyone like that before this project happened.”

Glowing Report Is Cherry On 150th Birthday Cake For St Wilfrid’s

11th September 2025Dodio Dodio

Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust’s school, St Wilfrid’s is celebrating a very special double milestone – 150 years of dedicated service to the community and outstanding results in a recent inspection.

A week of anniversary events at St Wilfrid’s Catholic Primary School in Monkgate was capped by the publication of a glowing Catholic Schools Inspection report.

The school received the top grade in every category – overall effectiveness, Catholic life and mission, religious education and collective worship.

Inspectors observed worship and RE lessons, examined pupils’ work and performance data and talked to stakeholders.

“The leaders of the school, especially the headteacher, demonstrate exceptional commitment and effectiveness in fostering a thriving Catholic community centred on Christ,”

the report says.

“The behaviour and attitudes of pupils at St Wilfrid’s is outstanding, reflecting a deep commitment to the values of respect, responsibility and care for others.
“Pupils demonstrate high levels of attainment, and the work in their books is presented exceptionally well.

“The school’s environment and its welcoming, inclusive community ethos, proudly proclaim and celebrate its Catholic identity.

“Links with the diocese, parish and other schools are strong. Pupils send Christmas cards to senior parishioners, and some vulnerable families receive generous support from the parish SVP.”

One parent told the inspectors:

“The teachers feel like members of our family.” Another added: “It feels like this is our second home.”

Pupils were also asked for their views, with one commenting:

“Teachers help us. They enjoy being with us, and we listen and behave.”

Headteacher Helen Keith said the report reflects the hard work and expertise of staff and the volunteers who support the school. She said:

“The most pleasing part of our inspection was our wonderful children. They engaged with inspectors in such a positive and eloquent manner, took part in prayerful moments and showed their individuality and creativity, as well as trying their very best.

“They are very proud to be part of our school and we are very proud to be part of their school life and journey.

“We have just planted a lovely apple tree in a beautiful planter to commemorate our 150th anniversary. The tree will stand proud for another 150 years of excellent education at St Wilfrid’s Primary – thank you to AGH Engineering for the very generous donation of both tree and planter.”

Miss Keith described St Wilfrid’s – which is part of Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust – as a place that stays in your heart. She said:

“What makes St Wilfrid’s so special is the love and friendships that begin and grow here in our Christ-centered school.

“I look at our wonderful children who are making friends that will last a lifetime. I frequently hear how staff who have left school continue to meet up and continue their friendships.

“People often comment about our excellent academic achievements and exemplary behaviour and I always refer to our hard-working and outstanding team who work so well as a team to make it possible.

“They really do look after each other and care about one another.”

Inspectors especially praised the school’s Mini Vinnies, who help pupils put their concern for the world around them into action. The group led fundraising for causes such as York Against Cancer, CAFOD, Martin House, Mary’s Meals, Carecent, Refugee Action, Get Cycling, Zoe’s Place and Snappy. Kath Campbell, who was St Wilfrid’s school administrator for 32 years, serving under five headteachers, now volunteers to help run the Mini Vinnies, despite having retired 15 years ago. She said:

“If you were to ask me what makes St Wilfrid’s continue to be a special place after 150 years, my answer would be that it is not only a good school but also a community of faith, love and care, where everyone is treated with dignity and supported in good times and bad.

“Over the years there have been many memorable events and occasions, but one I recall distinctly was the refurbishment of the school, which was completed in 1994.

“The headteacher then was Sister Teresa, a member of the Sisters of Charity of St Paul the Apostle, who founded the school 150 years ago.

“During the ten arduous months of building work, pupils were taken care of by a hard-working and caring staff and continued to be educated on the site.”

The week of celebrations began with Mass at St Wilfrid’s Church and continued with a special celebratory lunch. There was more fun later in the week with a dressing up day, featuring colourful fashions through the 15 decades since the school opened.

St Clare’s Shines In Latest Ofsted Inspection

10th September 2025Dodio Dodio

Inspection highlights school’s caring ethos, high standards and ambitious vision for pupils’ futures

St Clare’s Catholic Primary School in Middlesbrough, part of the Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust (NPCAT), has been praised in its latest ungraded Ofsted inspection, with glowing recognition for its nurturing environment, high academic expectations and strong sense of community.

 

Pupils at St Clare’s Catholic Primary School, Acklam

Inspectors described St Clare’s as “a caring and happy school where pupils’ love of learning is nurtured”. Over the course of their education, pupils were observed growing in confidence, developing mutual respect and striving to meet the school’s ambitious standards.

Inspectors said pupils are rightfully proud of their achievements, with the report noting they

“enjoy the high academic challenges that the school’s ambitious curriculum provides”.

“They have big dreams for their futures, which the school sets them up well to fulfil,”

The report adds:

“Pupils’ behaviour is exemplary. All staff have consistently high expectations for pupils’ conduct. Classrooms are calm, purposeful and orderly places.”

The school’s focus on character development is further underlined by its strong support for pupils’ personal wellbeing, which the report says is a strength of St Clare’s.

“Pupils relish the many opportunities that they have to show leadership and responsibility,”

“Sports leaders enjoy organising activities at break-time to help their friends stay active.“Some pupils have been trained to support others with their mental wellbeing. They take this role seriously and are proud of the contribution they make to their school.

School councillors have brought the fundamental British value of democracy to life by encouraging pupils to vote for their choice of playground equipment.”

Visits from professionals across a wide range of careers have helped inspire pupils to dream big and set ambitious goals for their futures and older pupils are offered first-aid training to help them be responsible citizens.

The report says:

“The early years is a warm and inviting space for children to learn in. Children play together confidently. Those with responsibility for governance have a detailed knowledge of the school and its performance. Local governors and the trust carry out effective work to check that the school is safe and the curriculum is impactful.”

Since the last inspection, Ofsted said St Clare’s – which is part of Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust (NPCAT) – has made significant strides in developing a well-structured curriculum.

The report praised the clear identification of the key knowledge and skills pupils need at each stage of their education.

Attendance has also been a focus, with the school praised for its tenacious follow-up on absences and swift action to support improved attendance.

Delighted headteacher Liz Eddies said St Clare’s success is down to a real team effort.

“This outcome is a testament to the hard work of our staff, the enthusiasm of our pupils and the unwavering support of our families and parish, I’m delighted the inspectors noted that staff describe the school as ‘a big family’, as that’s exactly what we are.

As St Clare’s continues to grow from strength to strength, it remains a beacon of excellence, where children are not only taught but truly inspired. Together, we will continue to live out our school’s mission to Walk in the Light of Christ.”

Chair of governors Vicki Putson added:

“We are delighted that the report reflects the warmth, dedication and ambition that defines our school community.”

St Clare’s, which is on Trimdon Avenue, Acklam, has 236 pupils aged from three to 11.

Another Set Of Excellent Results For All Saints Students

15th August 2025Dodio Dodio

Once again, students at All Saints Catholic School in York excelled in their A-Level and BTEC examinations.

 

Results have continued on an upward trajectory and this year’s results highlight the exceptional talent and determination of our Year 13 cohort.

Many have secured places at top Russell Group universities, competitive apprenticeships and prestigious training programmes.

Six students secured coveted places at the universities of Oxford and Cambridge and will be reading a diverse range of subjects from PPE to Computer Science, History, History and Politics, Earth Sciences and Music.

Several aspiring doctors have won places at leading medical schools — a testament to the exceptional academic standards at All Saints.

 

Many of our students were above target in all subjects and there were numerous standout achievers. Among those is Thibault Duckett who achieved three A* grades and will go on to study History and Politics at Edinburgh University,

Isabella Chatakondu achieved A*A*A* and has secured a place at Cambridge to study History and Politics,

Vikotria Mielcarek A*A*A, Will Binge A*AA, Billy McGurrin A*AA and Catherine Gibson AAA.

There were also many successes in our Level 3 BTEC awards including Finley Cox who was above target across the board, achieving a Distinction Merit in his BTEC Business National Diploma and an A in Media. He will go on to study visual effects and motion graphics at Teesside University.

Jessica Holden achieved an amazing Distinction* Distinction* in Btec Health and Social Care plus A Biology and will study for a Master of Adult Nursing at York University.

Jess Precious performed above target across the board with Distinction Distinction in BTEC National Diploma in Business and B in History. Their success epitomises the commitment, resilience and drive shown by so many of our students.

Headteacher Sharon Keelan-Beardsley said:

“We could not be prouder of our students. Achieving 35% of grades at A*/A and an average grade of B across the year group is a phenomenal accomplishment, and there are many amazing individual achievements.
“Success for our young people has been the result of sheer hard work and determination, unwavering support from staff and a strong partnership between school, student and home. “A significant number of our students have had to overcome adversity and therefore these results are an inspiration for the whole community.
“All Saints once again proves that with ambition and dedication, extraordinary results are possible and whatever our young people go on to do, we are proud of each and every one of them.
“From future doctors and engineers to creative innovators and entrepreneurs, our students are ready to make their mark on the world.
“It is important to remember however, that while exam results will take them to the next step in their journey, our students’ achievements go beyond academic excellence – they have also demonstrated strong values, compassion for others and a commitment to making a positive difference in our school and wider community. We will miss them and wish them every success in the future.”

Trinity Students Celebrate Success As Grades Continue To Rise

15th August 2025Dodio Dodio

At Trinity Catholic Sixth Form (T6) in Middlesbrough, performance indicators continue to show an upward trajectory.

Michael Blair, head of school at Trinity Catholic College, which includes T6, was delighted to see another improvement in results.

Michael-Blair,-head-of-school-at-Trinity-Catholic-College

Michael Blair, head of school at Trinity Catholic College

At A-Level, average point scores increased from 2024 to 2025. This improvement can clearly be seen in several subject areas. For example, 60% of students gained A*-B grades in English Literature, 66% achieved the same in History and 75% in Geography.

Attainment in A-Level Geography, History and Sociology increased to a praiseworthy B grade on average. The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is also thriving, with students typically achieving an A grade.

Additionally, students excelled in BTEC Health and Social Care, BTEC Sport and BTEC Engineering.

On average, those studying for a National Extended Certificate grade (Single Award) earned a Distinction. Those studying for a Diploma (Double Award) or an Extended Diploma (Triple Award) on average earned grades of at least a Merit.

Head of sixth form Phillip Scarr said:

“Our students have worked hard to achieve their personal best, and we couldn’t be prouder.
“Their results reflect not only their academic ability, but their determination and perseverance throughout their time with us.
“We equally recognise our exceptional T6 team. Their expertise and personal care creates an environment that allows our young people to flourish.
“I wish our Year 13 leavers every success in the next chapter of their lives.”

To enrol at T6 Sixth Form for 2025/26, email [email protected].

Everyone at T6 is so proud to celebrate George Otedola’s outstanding A-Level results.
George achieved A grades in Biology, Chemistry and Maths. He also earned an A* grade for his Extended Project Qualification, based on his interest in the field of economics.

George excelled at Trinity Catholic College before continuing his career at T6. He now intends to study Economics at Warwick University.

T6 George Otedola with deputy head of sixth form Natalie Flounders and head of sixth form Phill Scarr

T6 George Otedola with deputy head of sixth form Natalie Flounders and head of sixth form Phill Scarr

George said:

“I am thankful to all my teachers for their support over the past two years. I’m happy with the achievements I have gained while here at T6 and I’m looking forward to the next steps in my career at university.”

Olivia Tempestoso showed endeavour, resilience and academic flair to excel at T6 Sixth Form. She achieved A* grades in A-Level Sociology and A-Level History, as well as an A in English Literature. Her Extended Project Qualification on the Ripper victims earned her an A* grade.

Olivia attended St Edward’s Catholic Primary School and Trinity Catholic College before choosing T6 as her further education provider. Her outstanding results will see her progress to study English Literature at Newcastle University.

T6 Olivia Tempestoso with Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland MP Luke Myer

Reflecting on her time at T6, Olivia said:

“I am over the moon with the results I have received this morning. All my hard work, in addition to the abundance of help and support from my teachers and the T6 staff, has paid off.
“I’m off to Newcastle University to read English Literature and I look forward to my next chapter, and I’ll never forget my time at T6.”

Congratulations also to Erin Pathirana. Erin’s superb A-Level results are testament to both the support she received at Trinity Sixth Form and to her academic excellence.
Erin secured As in English Literature and Sociology and a B in Psychology.
Her Extended Project Qualification in the field of breast cancer was also awarded an A*.
Erin attended St Edward’s Catholic Primary School and Trinity Catholic College before choosing T6 as her further education provider. Her outstanding results will see her progress to study Psychology at Newcastle University.

T6 Erin Pathirana with Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland MP Luke Myer

T6 Erin Pathirana with Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland MP Luke Myer

Erin said:

“I am very pleased with my results today and I’m glad my hard work has paid off. I will be going to Newcastle University with some of my closest friends to study Psychology and I’m looking forward to this next chapter.”

T6 Football Academy student Amelia Lucas has earned excellent grades, with a D*DD in BTEC Sport.

Amelia joined T6 from Sacred Heart Catholic Secondary School in Redcar to study for first-class qualifications while also developing her football career with Guisborough Ladies.

Former Boro striker Andy Campbell, head of the Girls Football Academy, said:

“I am really proud of what Amelia has achieved, both on the football pitch and, more importantly, off it.
“This shows if you have the right work ethic and attitude you can get what you want from life. Well done Amelia and good luck in the next steps on your next journey.”

Amelia plans to study Sport and Exercise Science at Northumbria University in the hope of pursuing a career as a physiotherapist.

T6 Amelia Lucas with deputy head of sixth form Natalie Flounders and head of sixth form Phill Scarr

T6 Amelia Lucas with deputy head of sixth form Natalie Flounders and head of sixth form Phill Scarr

Amelia said:

“I am extremely proud of the results I have achieved while at T6 and would like to thank my sport teachers for their hard work and commitment in helping me to achieve such successful grades.”

Fellow T6 Football Academy student Ashton Dixon has earned excellent grades, achieving a D*D in BTEC Engineering and a distinction in BTEC Sport. Ashton also joined T6 from Sacred Heart Catholic Secondary School in Redcar to study for first-class academic qualifications while also developing his football career.

Dave McTiernan, head of the Football Academy, said:

“Ashton has achieved fantastic results and has shown a real work ethic since joining T6.
“I’m sure Ashton will be a huge success in the future, both on and off the football pitch. Most importantly he is a great person and all the football academy staff are very proud of his achievements so far.”

Ashton is currently working at Greenbank Recycling Solutions and is applying for an apprenticeship in Electrical Instrumentation and Control Engineering.

T6 Ashton Dixon with Trinity Catholic College head of school Michael Blair

T6 Ashton Dixon with Trinity Catholic College head of school Michael Blair

Ashton said:

“I’m extremely proud to achieve the highest of grades in both of my BTEC courses.
“I would like to thank the staff at T6 for all the support, in particular Mr Smith for his guidance and expertise around apprenticeship.”

Top marks for school where faith is lived out every day

16th July 2025Dodio Dodio

A Middlesbrough school has been praised for living out its faith in the local community as it was handed a perfect report after a recent Catholic Schools Inspection.

St Bernadette’s Catholic Primary School in Nunthorpe achieved the best possible score in all 16 categories and was judged to be outstanding for overall effectiveness, Catholic life and mission, religious education and collective worship.

A teacher with pupils at St Bernadette’s Catholic Primary School

Headteacher Sarah Brady said she was so proud of everyone who plays a part in making the school such a wonderful place. She said:

“A special thank you to the staff, who are always so committed to our school. The whole team attended our recent First Holy Communions, which is just one example of their passion and dedication.

“We are also blessed to have many people from the parish supporting us in so many ways – our parish priest, Canon John Lumley, our catechists, the SVP and so many more.

“Thank you also to Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust (NPCAT) for their invaluable support and to the diocesan team for their ongoing continuous professional development.”

The report highlighted weekly visits to a care home, fundraising initiatives, litter-picking, writing to prisoners and contacting their MP about injustices as just a few examples of how the school enriches the community.

A pupil at St Bernadette’s Catholic Primary School

Pupils are also taught from an early age to pray a wide variety of ways, including Lectio Divina, examen, guided meditation, breath prayers, Rosary and litany, as well going on as retreats to Osmotherley and Ampleforth

“Pupils know they are loved and they feel a deep sense of belonging,” the report says. “Adults know they are highly valued. Leaders are inspirational in their dedication to the pupils in their care. They are highly ambitious for all and are persistent in their pursuit of excellence. Christ is at the centre of decisions they make.

“Standards in religious education are exceptionally high. The subject knowledge pupils display in lessons is outstanding as a result of highly effective teaching. Work is presented well and with a deep sense of pride.

“Links to the parish are exceptionally strong and this is highly valued by the community.
Pupils enjoy school greatly. They display joyful dispositions during prayer and liturgy and create a culture of mutual respect. They are inspired to grow spiritually.”

One parent told inspectors:  “Love and kindness is always shown. Our children know this is a safe place to take risks.”

Pupils said lessons are “very active because they make learning fun” and “teachers give us challenges which push our thinking on”.

Prayer is central, with one pupil commenting: “It makes me feel like the Holy Spirit is with me. It is very special.”

Miss Brady added: “We live our school vision of making positive impacts in the world through many acts of service. “We visit a local care home weekly, we care for our environment with our allotment and chickens, we fundraise for many charities and we also like to raise awareness of social issues that are close to our hearts.

“One pupil reported, ‘I know I can brighten someone’s day by my actions.’

“Our children have exceptional behaviour and this has been noted in both our Ofsted and Section 48 reports. They really shine everyday being the best they can be.”

Introducing the NPCAT App: A New Way to Stay Connected

3rd June 2025Dodio Dodio

We are excited to introduce the NPCAT app, designed to make it easier for parents and carers to stay informed and engaged with their child’s school life.

With a secure and user-friendly interface, this app will streamline communication, provide real-time updates and offer convenient access to essential school services – all in one place.

NPCAT App

 

This new app will include a link for you to access your existing ParentPay account, using the same log in details as you do today , providing a more efficient and seamless way to manage school payments and meal orders all via one app.

What to Expect

At launch, the NPCAT app will be used for you to access ParentPay via the ‘payments’ button, ensuring a smooth transition from ParentPay to a more integrated system.

Over time, we will expand the app’s features to enhance communication, engagement and access to important school updates – giving parents and carers even greater convenience and control.

Getting Started: What You Need to Know

To ensure a smooth transition, our app provider, Weduc will email you everything you need to set up your account between Wednesday 11th of June and Friday 13th of June.

Look out for an email from Reach More Parents by Weduc, which will contain your unique enrolment code and step-by-step instructions to activate your account. Once you receive this email, you will be able to download the app.

Key Features of the NPCAT App, coming soon!

  • Dashboard – A quick snapshot of upcoming events, unread messages and important notices
  • Newsfeed – A social media-style feed featuring school updates, news and photos
  • Calendar – View key school dates and sync them with your personal calendar
  • Parent Portal – Access attendance records, timetables and behaviour updates
  • Notices – Quick access to all essential communications from the school
  • Forms – Submit forms online instantly, reducing the need for paper copies
  • Report Absences – Notify the school of an absence directly through the app
  • The Hub – A single login point to access all other school systems and helpful links
  • School Payments – A seamless link to ParentPay, allowing easy meal ordering and school payments in the same way you do today

Why Use the NPCAT App?

  • Real-Time Updates – Receive instant notifications about school news, trip updates and learning activities
  • Streamlined Communication – All essential school information in one place, reducing the need for multiple emails and platforms
  • Eco-Friendly – Eliminates paper forms and reduces waste by allowing tasks to be completed online
  • Ease of Use – Designed with busy parents and carers in mind, featuring a simple and intuitive interface
  • Integrated School Payments – A direct link to ParentPay, making transactions easier and more accessible

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I register for the app?
You will receive an email from Reach More Parents by Weduc with your unique enrolment code and instructions. If you have not received this by Monday 16th June 2025, please contact your child’s school.

How do I download the app?
Search for NPCAT in your app store, download it and log in using the details from your enrolment email.

What if I cannot download the app?
You can still access Reach More Parents through any internet-enabled device. If you require further assistance, speak to your school.

Will this replace ParentPay?
No, we have chosen to continue to use ParentPay and you will be able to easily access ParentPay via the Payments Icon in the app (you can use your existing ParentPay log on details to make payments). This is a more streamlined experience for managing school payments and meal orders as you can access all in one app.

Can I use the app for multiple NPCAT schools?
Yes. If you have children in more than one NPCAT school, you can manage all accounts under a single login.

When will you be adding more features to the app?
We will be rolling out additional features from September 2025.

Where do I go for help with the app?
Please email [email protected] and the friendly team there will help you

How to Get Started

  1. Check your email for your enrolment details (arriving between 11th and 13th of June)
  2. Download the Reach More Parents app from your preferred app store
  3. Log in and explore all the features designed to improve your connection with your child’s school

The NPCAT app is one of the many ways we are working to improve communication, simplify school processes and support parents and carers. We look forward to helping families stay informed and engaged in their child’s education.

Trust mourns the passing of Pope Francis

22nd April 2025Dodio Dodio

Everyone at Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust and our family of schools are deeply saddened by the passing of Pope Francis on Easter Monday.

 

Pope Francis


Bishop Terry led the tributes in our diocese after Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday, speaking of his shock at hearing the news after the Holy Father had seemed to be recovering from his recent illness.


“I truly believe that from the moment he was elected Pope right up until the last breath he accepted the role of Peter, the papacy, as a gift from God and trusted that he would be given all that was needed to fulfil the role,” he said. “He was not afraid to show his own weakness and vulnerability right up to the end, believing God could work through his frailty and teaching us all the lesson that the same is true of us. 


“He will surely be known as the Pope of the poor and the marginalised, for he spent so much of his ministry for and behalf of them. Francis by name and Francis by nature; he brought a real breath of radical fresh air to the ministry of Peter in the Church of today.”


Bishop Terry will celebrate a Requiem Mass for the repose of the soul of Pope Francis at St Mary’s Cathedral in Middlesbrough on Tuesday morning.


The cathedral will be open until 6pm daily until Friday for private prayer and a Book of Remembrance will be available for all to sign.


May he rest in peace and rise in glory.

St Mary’s Catholic Primary School to Welcome Two-Year-Olds from September

8th April 2025Dodio Dodio

St Mary’s Catholic Primary School in Richmond, part of the Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust (NPCAT), is expanding its early years provision to offer places for two-year-olds starting this September.

Pupils at Richmond Primary School

Pupils at Richmond Primary School

This development means families in the local community will have access to high-quality early education and care, giving younger children the very best start to their learning journey.

St Mary’s is already known for its caring and nurturing environment and this expansion reflects the school’s continued commitment to supporting children from the earliest years.

NPCAT CEO Hugh Hegarty, said:

“The prospect of parents and carers being able to choose a school such as St Mary’s, which ensures admission to the outstanding St Francis Xavier School at 11, is something we are so delighted to offer our wonderful community in Richmond and the surrounding areas.”

Read the full article here: https://www.richmondshiretoday.co.uk/richmond-primary-school-to-offer-places-for-two-year-olds

St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School Celebrates Outstanding Inspection Report

20th February 2025Dodio Dodio

A Small School With a Big Heart

St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Loftus, part of Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust, is celebrating a glowing inspection report, which highlights the school’s exceptional care, commitment to excellence and strong community spirit.

St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School Celebrates Outstanding Inspection Report

Inspectors described St Joseph’s as “a small school with a big heart,” perfectly capturing what makes this school so uniquely special. The report praises the school’s dedication to providing the best education and care for all pupils, with a particular emphasis on the high-quality support for children in the early years and pupils with SEND.

Commitment to Excellence and Care

The inspection report highlights several key strengths of St Joseph’s, including:

  • A determined approach to delivering the best education and care for pupils.
  • Excellent support for children in the early years, ensuring they feel listened to and nurtured.
  • A well-deserved reputation for outstanding care for pupils with SEND.
  • Strong preparation for life beyond primary school, equipping pupils with confidence and ambition.
a small school with a big heart

Executive Headteacher Simon Geaves expressed his delight at the report’s findings:

“What particularly pleases me about our inspection is that the hard work and dedication of our pupils, parents, carers, staff and governors have been both praised and recognised. We might be small in size, but we have big ambitions for all our children.”

A School Built on Love and Community

More than just academic excellence, St Joseph’s is recognised for its deeply caring and inclusive environment, where pupils are nurtured, supported and encouraged to thrive.

The school’s strong sense of family and faith was highlighted in the report, with one staff member telling inspectors:

“We don’t just open our doors to pupils, we open our hearts as well.”

Mr Geaves reflected on the impact of this compassionate, faith-filled approach:

“What is most important to us all at St Joseph’s is that it is a school centred on love. We are a family and this was recognised in our inspection. It perfectly captures why St Joseph’s continues to grow from strength to strength.”

A Bright Future for St Joseph’s

This outstanding report is a testament to the dedication of the entire school community and the transformative impact of a nurturing and ambitious learning environment.

NPCAT is immensely proud of St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School and congratulates its pupils, staff and families on this well-deserved recognition.