St Thomas More Catholic School, located in Wood Green, London, has received an outstanding rating in its recent inspection conducted on May 14 and 15, 2024. The school, which is part of The Cardinal Hume Academies Trust, is led by headteacher Alex Rosen and overseen by CEO Martin Tissot and chair of trustees John Meadows. The school has maintained its outstanding status since its last inspection in June 2013, with a previous urgent inspection occurring in January 2019.
The school is characterized by a strong sense of community, where both staff and pupils take pride in their environment. Pupils are encouraged to develop robust subject knowledge, which translates into positive outcomes in public examinations, effectively preparing them for future educational and career pathways. High expectations for behavior and conduct are set by the leadership, resulting in motivated learners who are confident, courteous, and curious. The school fosters a safe and happy atmosphere, with strong collaboration between the school and parents, who express high regard for the institution.
St Thomas More offers a wide range of opportunities and experiences aimed at broadening pupils' knowledge. The school prioritizes the development of cultural capital, providing various clubs and societies, including chess, sewing, rugby, and dance, as well as trips to theaters, museums, and author visits. Sixth-form students play an active role in mentoring younger pupils, serving as role models within the school community.
The curriculum at St Thomas More is rich and ambitious, with a logical sequence that allows pupils to revisit and embed key concepts. This approach benefits all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, who achieve commendable results. The school emphasizes memorable learning experiences, with enrichment activities that bring lessons to life, such as visits to significant cultural sites. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and create connections to current affairs, encouraging critical thinking among pupils.
Reading is central to the curriculum, with high-quality texts selected to enhance vocabulary and comprehension. Support is provided for pupils who require additional help with reading, ensuring they can fully engage with the curriculum. The school promotes reading through various initiatives, including book clubs and readathons.
The school environment is calm and orderly, with exemplary behavior observed among pupils. Older students serve as role models, demonstrating respect and responsibility. The school’s values are deeply embedded, and pupils participate in numerous extracurricular activities, including competitions and community projects. The school’s commitment to character development is evident through its Catholic ethos and the promotion of fundamental British values.
Leaders at St Thomas More prepare pupils exceptionally well for their next stages in education or employment. The careers provision is robust, offering guidance and workshops on various pathways. Personal, social, health, and economic education is effectively delivered, ensuring pupils are equipped for life in modern Britain. The pastoral care provided is exceptional, with a strong focus on the well-being of both pupils and staff.
Overall, St Thomas More Catholic School exemplifies excellence in education, characterized by a supportive community, high academic standards, and a commitment to the personal development of all its pupils. The school’s leadership is reflective and dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring that it remains a nurturing environment for learning and growth.
