Saint Gregory’s Catholic College in Bath, Somerset, was inspected on November 8 and 9, 2022, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school has a strong reputation, having been previously rated outstanding nine years ago. The inspection highlighted the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth-form provision, all of which were rated as good or outstanding.
The school fosters a sense of community, with students expressing pride in their school and appreciation for the passionate teachers who care about their learning. The ethos of the school is deeply rooted in Gospel values, promoting respect and positive interactions among students and staff. Pupils feel safe and confident in addressing any issues of derogatory language or bullying, which is addressed promptly by teachers. The school ensures that economic barriers do not prevent students from participating in extracurricular activities, leading to strong engagement in school life.
The curriculum is broad and ambitious, with subject leaders working diligently to ensure that knowledge and skills are built logically over time. Notable strengths were observed in subjects like geography, where careful planning has resulted in comprehensive knowledge retention among students. However, there are inconsistencies in curriculum planning across different subjects, which can hinder students' ability to connect prior knowledge with new concepts. Assessment practices also vary, with some teachers not consistently focusing on essential knowledge retention, particularly for students with special educational needs and disabilities.
The school has implemented a reading program to support early literacy, but its impact is still developing. While some students respond positively to reading incentives, a culture of reading for enjoyment has yet to be fully established. Interventions such as the Reset Room and Damascus Room help students manage their behavior and emotions, contributing to a calm classroom environment. The school also provides a rich personal development program that addresses important social issues and promotes understanding of equality and diversity.
Students in the sixth form report positive experiences, benefiting from extensive career guidance and opportunities to explore their future pathways. The governing body is experienced and dedicated, actively seeking ways to support the school’s continuous improvement. Leaders have made efforts to reduce staff workload, fostering a supportive environment for teachers, especially those early in their careers.
Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance. Leaders maintain detailed records and collaborate with external agencies to ensure that students and their families receive necessary support. Pupils feel safe and are knowledgeable about how to protect themselves, both in the community and online.
To improve, the school needs to ensure that the curriculum is better adapted to meet the needs of all students, particularly those with special educational needs. This includes a more explicit focus on essential knowledge and consistent assessment practices. Additionally, the early reading program must be fully implemented to support students who struggle with literacy, ensuring they can engage with the full curriculum. Overall, Saint Gregory’s Catholic College demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and effective educational environment, with clear areas for growth to enhance student learning and development.
