St. Michael’s Catholic Academy achieves ‘Outstanding’ in all areas from Catholic Schools Inspectorate
St. Michael’s Catholic Academy in Billingham is celebrating a phenomenal achievement, having been awarded an ‘Outstanding’ rating in all areas following its recent inspection by the Catholic Schools Inspectorate (CSI).
This recognition is a powerful testament to the school’s vibrant community and unwavering commitment to its Catholic ethos, and Schools North East couldn’t be more proud.
Visionary leadership that genuinely inspires pupils
The CSI report paints a picture of a truly exceptional educational environment, describing St. Michael’s as a “welcoming, inclusive, genuine and authentic Catholic school where students and staff ‘love to be’.”
Inspectors particularly lauded the school’s profound culture of care and compassion, highlighting its dedication to serving the wider community and consistently going “the extra mile to support those in greatest need.”
The report highlighted numerous strengths that contribute to this outstanding success:
- A deep sense of value, care, and inclusion felt by all students.
- An “outstanding array of chaplaincy opportunities,” demonstrating strong student leadership in faith.
- Visionary leadership that genuinely inspires students and staff to embrace and develop their own faith journeys.
- A passionate and talented RE department renowned for making learning “exciting and inspiring.”
- Deeply engaging and powerful prayer and liturgy, incorporating “innovative approaches to collective worship.”
Commitment to excellence in Catholic education
This ‘Outstanding’ judgment is a direct reflection of the tireless dedication of every member of the St. Michael’s community – from the committed staff and enthusiastic students to supportive families and local clergy.
It underscores the school’s ongoing mission to nurture young people not only academically and emotionally but also spiritually within a robust Catholic framework. As a vital part of the Bishop Hogarth Catholic Education Trust, St. Michael’s exemplifies the Trust’s broader commitment to excellence in Catholic education across the region.
Chris Zarraga, Director of Schools North East, commented on the achievement: “We are absolutely thrilled to see St. Michael’s Catholic Academy receive this ‘Outstanding’ rating across the board.
“It’s a clear demonstration of the incredible work being done by the leadership, staff, and students to create such a nurturing and high-achieving environment. Their dedication to student well-being, spiritual development, and academic excellence truly stands out and is an inspiration to schools across our region.”
The full CSI report, offering a comprehensive insight into St. Michael’s Catholic Academy’s outstanding practices, can be accessed here.
Bishop Hogarth 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.
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