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.