Ofsted praises St Wilfrid’s RC College as new Head Teacher unveils ambitious plans
It’s always wonderful to hear about the fantastic work happening in our North East schools, and we’re particularly delighted to share the news from St Wilfrid’s RC College in South Shields!
Their new Head Teacher, Catherine Lennox, who joined in September, has been recognised by Ofsted for her “strong vision” and “positive effect”. The recent inspection in April highlighted some amazing strengths, including the school’s thriving Sixth Form, pupils’ personal development, and the impactful new leadership.
High-quality education where students are happy and enjoy learning
Ofsted lead inspector Hannah Millett noted in her report: “The school wants its pupils to succeed at a high standard. In many subjects, pupils achieve well in national tests. The school understands the importance of reading. Pupils who struggle with reading are identified at the earliest opportunity. Reading is a daily part of school life.
“In the Sixth Form, students enjoy learning and have positive relationships with staff. Overall, they achieve in line with their peers nationally. Students also progress from Year 13 to a range of interesting and ambitious destinations. Student leaders in the Sixth Form act as positive role models for younger pupils. Pupils enjoy a broad programme beyond the academic curriculum.
“For example, pupils can join the student council or volunteer in the local community. Pupils also access ‘active lunch’ clubs and raise money for local charities. Overall, the school has constructed an effective curriculum. It is well sequenced throughout the school. Many pupils achieve well to secure their next steps.”
Catherine Lennox shared her pride that Ofsted recognised the new senior leadership team’s hard work and positive effect, and that the Sixth Form provision was “rightly acknowledged” for providing high-quality education where students are happy and enjoy learning.
Exciting developments on the horizon
While the report did include some areas for improvement, it’s clear Catherine and her team are prepared!! She’d already identified these points and has a detailed plan for positive change at St Wilfrid’s.
As Mrs Lennox explained: “As Head Teacher in post since September, it was pleasing that Ofsted recognised that ‘leaders have a strong vision for the school’ and ‘they are committed to improvements for the pupils and the community’.
“Since arriving at the school, our new senior leadership team has begun bringing about change to secure the very best provision for all. Beginning with our new behaviour curriculum, known as ‘The St Wilfrid’s Way’, we have been developing behaviours and securing a culture of respect, responsibility and resilience.
“A new behaviour policy in the spring term has made further inroads in ensuring that all pupils are supported to meet our expectations. It has had a significant impact with an 80% reduction in behaviours which do not meet our expectations.”
Looking ahead, the summer term will see the exciting unveiling of their new behaviour support facility, The Haven, staffed by dedicated behaviour support staff, and a new SEND base, The Nest, is also being developed. Mrs Lennox added: “We have started to see the impact of this work in our everyday culture around school.
“However, it is still early days, and we recognise that we have further to go in securing the highest of standards and will continue to work with staff to ensure that this is fully realised.”
Preparing pupils well for the future
Geraldine Kilgour, chair of the governors, summed it up perfectly: “This is a transitional period for our school with a new headteacher at the helm. It is also very exciting. We are determined to use this report as a catalyst to enable rapid improvement. The directors, governors, school community leaders, staff and parents are united in our shared commitment to provide the high-quality education our children need and deserve.”
Chris Zarraga, Director of Schools North East, said: “It’s clear that St Wilfrid’s RC College, under Catherine’s leadership and with the strong support of the Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust, is on an inspiring journey of positive change. We wish them all the very best!”
Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust is a Schools North East Partner Trust. If you’d like to find out more about our Partner School membership, click here.
We love to hear good news from North East Schools! To share your news with Schools North East, please tag @SchoolsNE on X (formerly Twitter) or fill out this short form here.