St Benet’s MAT News

Headteacher Rob Connelly, commented:

I am delighted to share with you the outcomes of our recent Ofsted inspection, which took place on 24th and 25th June 2025. I am incredibly proud to announce that our school has been graded Good in all key areas, with our Early Years provision rated as Outstanding.

The inspection team recognised many of the strengths that make our school community so unique and special. They noted how pupils ‘relish opportunities to ‘live life in all its fullness’ and praised how our caring, supportive community enables children to feel happy, safe, and valued from Nursery through to Year 11.

The report highlights the extensive work that has been undertaken in developing a broad and ambitious curriculum that is planned from Early Years through to Year 11 in all subjects, coupled with the high expectations that we have for all members of the community.

The inspectors were impressed by the calm, purposeful learning environments and children’s high levels of engagement and independence, highlighting the excellent behaviour and relationships across the school. In particular, the inspectors noted the calm, respectful atmosphere throughout the school and praised our ‘connect before we correct’ approach, which refl ects our values-led ethos.

As a school, we prioritise personal development and the wide range of opportunities for pupils to take on leadership roles – from well-being ambassadors to diversity crew – alongside our extensive enrichment programme, community events, and international visits, highlighted as helping to develop confi dent, empathetic young people.

The inspection team recognised the clear vision and strategic approach of school leaders, supported excellently by St Benet’s MAT, in addressing areas for development and building on our strengths, acknowledging the hard work we have undertaken to address historical challenges, particularly in the primary phase, and were pleased to see the positive impact of our efforts.

The inspection has confirmed that when education is rooted in strong Christian values, children fl ourish academically, personally, and spiritually. Our commitment to helping every child ‘live life in all its fullness’ – both in their learning and their character development, continues to bear fruit.

The final report can be accessed here.