St Mary’s RC High School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is an outstanding school Outcomes for pupils are impressive.

Pupils throughout the school make strong progress in all subjects. Over time, attainment at the end of key stage 4 has been above the national average. Pupils from all ability groups, disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) make strong progress from their starting points.

Teaching is very effective across the curriculum and in different year groups. The curriculum is well planned, has an ambitious intent and provides pupils with worthwhile qualifications and rich experiences. Many pupils take advantage of a range of extra-curricular activities, tr...ips and visits.

Leaders have high expectations of teachers and regularly visit lessons to check how pupils are progressing in their studies. The challenge and support provided by the governing body contributes positively to school improvement. The headteacher and senior leaders are a visible presence around school and their work is highly regarded by pupils, parents and colleagues.

Pupils are very well prepared for the next stage in their education or employment after leaving the school Parents are overwhelmingly positive about the school and many express gratitude that their children attend St Mary's. Pupils' personal development is outstanding. The caring culture at the school helps them to thrive.

Behaviour in lessons and around the school site is exemplary. Pupils support one another as a matter of course. Pupils enjoy school, attend regularly and are proud to be part of the school community.

Safeguarding is extremely effective. There is a consistently caring culture at the school. Leaders' review and evaluation of strategies to support disadvantaged pupils is not as effective as it might be.

In 2018, the attainment of disadvantaged pupils was low. However, current disadvantaged pupils are making good progress. Careers information advice and guidance is not comprehensive enough for pupils in key stage 3.

Assessment information does not always clearly inform parents and pupils about current progress in key stage 3.

Information about this school

St Mary's RC High School is smaller than the average-sized secondary school. It is a Roman Catholic school and part of the Archdiocese of Cardiff.

Pupils join the school in Year 7 from a wide geographical area and from a large number of feeder primary schools. The proportion of disadvantaged pupils is lower than the national average. The proportion of pupils with SEND is similar to the national average.

The current headteacher joined the school in April 2018. The school does not use any alternative provision for its pupils. A section 48 inspection took place in March 2014.