St Peter’s Catholic School, located in Guildford, Surrey, has recently undergone an inspection by Ofsted, which took place on May 15 and 16, 2024. The school has received an overall effectiveness rating of outstanding, reflecting its commitment to providing high-quality education and support to its students. The headteacher, Toby Miller, leads the school, which is part of the Xavier Catholic Education Trust, overseen by CEO James Kibble and a board of trustees chaired by Peter O’Brien. This institution has not been previously inspected under the current framework, but it was recognized as outstanding prior to its conversion to an academy in October 2019.
The school is dedicated to fostering a positive learning environment where pupils feel happy and valued. It emphasizes its core values of love, service, reflection, justice, and courage, which are evident in the interactions between staff and students. The commitment of the staff to the academic success of all pupils is reflected in the high levels of achievement in examinations. Pupils demonstrate excellent behavior and attitudes towards learning, arriving on time and being prepared for lessons, which allows teachers to focus on delivering effective instruction.
The curriculum at St Peter’s is designed to build upon the foundational knowledge acquired in primary school, ensuring that pupils develop a mastery of subjects that will support their future studies. The school offers a rich variety of subjects at both GCSE and A level, allowing students to explore their interests and develop essential skills. Teachers are skilled in sequencing lessons and revisiting material to reinforce learning, ensuring that knowledge is securely embedded.
Teachers are passionate about their subjects and create engaging and purposeful lessons. They utilize effective resources and adapt their teaching to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school has placed a strong emphasis on supporting these students, particularly in light of the increased needs observed following the COVID-19 pandemic. The positive behavior of pupils significantly contributes to their learning, as they demonstrate focus, responsibility, and resilience in their studies.
St Peter’s also prioritizes the personal development of its pupils, providing them with a well-rounded education that extends beyond the academic curriculum. The school effectively teaches respect and community involvement, guiding students in making informed decisions about their educational pathways. The personal, social, health, and economic education curriculum is well-planned, helping pupils develop into respectful individuals who appreciate diversity.
The school actively engages with parents and the wider community, fostering positive relationships that enhance the educational experience. Feedback from parents is overwhelmingly positive, indicating satisfaction with communication and support from the school. The governing body is vigilant in its oversight, ensuring that the school maintains high standards.
Safeguarding arrangements at St Peter’s are effective, creating a safe environment for all students. The school reflects on its performance and continuously seeks to improve, balancing staff training with accountability for student outcomes. Overall, St Peter’s Catholic School exemplifies excellence in education, demonstrating a strong commitment to the academic and personal growth of its pupils.
