St Thomas More RC College is recognized as a good school, providing a calm and welcoming environment rooted in mutual respect. Pupils express enjoyment in attending school, feeling happy and safe within the community. They value the positive relationships they build with staff, who treat them as individuals and foster a sense of trust. The school promotes an inclusive atmosphere where differences are celebrated, and discrimination is not tolerated. Pupils are confident that any incidents of bullying will be addressed promptly by school leaders.
The pride pupils take in their school is evident in their care for the classrooms, corridors, and social areas, contributing to a sensible and enjoyable atmosphere during social times. High expectations for learning and behavior are set by school leaders, and pupils consistently meet these expectations, achieving well across various subjects. They engage in their learning without distractions and demonstrate punctuality in attending lessons.
Beyond the classroom, pupils have access to a diverse range of extracurricular activities that broaden their horizons and enhance their understanding of the world. Participation in sports, drama clubs, and community service through initiatives like The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is encouraged. The support from parents and carers is notably strong, further enriching the school community.
The curriculum at St Thomas More RC College has been thoughtfully redesigned to allow pupils to build on their existing knowledge. It is broad and ambitious, with a focus on the English Baccalaureate suite of subjects. Subject leaders have carefully organized the curriculum, ensuring that pupils have opportunities to remember, practice, and expand their knowledge. Teachers possess a solid understanding of their subjects and regularly revisit learning with pupils, helping them achieve well across many areas. They effectively identify gaps in knowledge and adapt their teaching accordingly, ensuring that pupils can recover any missed learning.
While most subjects allow pupils to apply new learning to complex concepts, there are a few areas where teachers could improve in helping pupils make connections between their learning, which currently hinders progress. The school has effective systems in place to support pupils who struggle with reading, emphasizing the development of reading and vocabulary skills to help them access the wider curriculum.
Leaders quickly identify the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that they can access the same ambitious curriculum as their peers. The specially resourced provision for these pupils is well-supported, allowing for full inclusion in school life. Pupils with special educational needs achieve well and are integrated into the school community.
Behavior during lessons is commendable, with pupils demonstrating self-regulation and calmness during transitions between lessons and at lunchtime. The personal development program effectively prepares pupils for their future in modern Britain, covering essential topics such as healthy relationships and the impact of prejudice. Careers guidance is well-established, ensuring pupils transition to appropriate destinations after Year 11.
Governors play an active role in holding school leaders accountable for educational quality, while leaders consider staff workload and well-being, fostering a proud and dedicated staff community. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance and timely reporting of concerns. Staff are well-informed about potential risks, including online dangers, and work collaboratively with external partners to support pupils and their families.
Overall, St Thomas More RC College continues to provide a supportive and effective educational environment, with areas identified for improvement that will further enhance the learning experience for all pupils.
