St Paul’s Catholic College, located in Burgess Hill, West Sussex, has recently undergone an inspection by Ofsted, which resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of outstanding. The inspection took place on 28 February and 1 March 2023, marking the first routine inspection since the school became an academy in January 2022. Prior to this, the predecessor school was also rated outstanding during its last inspection in November 2007.
The college is characterized by its inclusive and exceptional environment, where pupils are motivated and ambitious to achieve their best. The leadership team has established high expectations, and pupils strive to meet these standards. The support provided for all students, particularly those with special educational needs and disabilities, is tailored to individual needs, ensuring that every pupil feels known and valued.
Pupils at St Paul’s demonstrate respect and kindness towards one another, celebrating diversity and feeling safe to express their individuality. The school has a strong anti-bullying culture, with swift and effective action taken by staff to address any concerns. The positive interactions between pupils and staff contribute to a calm and purposeful school environment, where exceptional behavior is the norm.
The curriculum at St Paul’s is well-structured and coherent, laying a solid foundation for future learning. The ambitious educational programs in key stages three and four prepare pupils effectively for their studies in the sixth form, where students benefit from a rich selection of subjects and personalized mentoring. Teachers possess expert subject knowledge and adapt lessons to meet the diverse needs of their pupils, ensuring that all students, including those with SEND, progress exceptionally well.
Pupils achieve high standards in public examinations at the end of Years 11 and 13. Recent improvements to the languages curriculum have enabled more pupils to continue studying a language into GCSE, positioning the school to exceed national averages for the English Baccalaureate. The inclusion team is dedicated to providing bespoke support for pupils with additional needs, working collaboratively with various professionals to ensure equitable access to education.
The school’s LovEd program fosters positive citizenship among pupils, equipping them with unbiased career advice and teaching them about essential concepts such as diversity and equality. In the sixth form, students engage in reflective activities that prepare them for life in modern Britain. This holistic approach to education cultivates a community of inclusive and reflective individuals.
Staff at St Paul’s are proud to work at the school, with leaders prioritizing their well-being. The governing body is ambitious for pupil achievement and fulfills its statutory duties effectively. Parents express high levels of satisfaction with the care and education their children receive, highlighting the welcoming and inclusive nature of the school community.
Safeguarding is a high priority, with staff trained to identify and respond to the needs of pupils and their families. The school collaborates effectively with external agencies to provide timely support. The robust record-keeping demonstrates the school’s commitment to maintaining a safe environment for all students.
Overall, St Paul’s Catholic College exemplifies excellence in education, characterized by outstanding leadership, a supportive and inclusive atmosphere, and a commitment to high standards of achievement for all pupils. The school is well-positioned to continue its success and further enhance the educational experience it offers.
