St Mary & St Thomas Aquinas Catholic Primary School in Blaydon has recently undergone its first inspection since becoming an academy. The inspection took place on 15 and 16 October 2024, and the school received outstanding ratings across all key areas, including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The headteacher, James Craig, leads a dedicated team within the Bishop Wilkinson Catholic Education Trust, which is overseen by CEO Nick Hurn OBE and a board of trustees chaired by Martin Gannon.
The school environment is described as nurturing, where pupils feel happy, confident, and articulate. The school promotes a culture of care and mutual respect, with strong relationships among staff and students. Pupils are encouraged to embody the school’s principles of being ready, respectful, and responsible. The staff's high aspirations and expectations contribute to the exceptional achievements of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school’s commitment to inclusivity ensures that every child has the opportunity to succeed.
Behaviour at the school is exemplary, with pupils demonstrating high standards in their conduct both in lessons and around the school. They show empathy towards one another, and older students take pride in mentoring younger pupils. The supportive relationship between parents and the school is evident, with parents expressing appreciation for the staff's genuine interest in their children's academic and personal lives.
The early years provision is particularly noteworthy, with staff immersing children in language-rich activities that foster communication skills. The curriculum is designed to build a strong foundation for learning, ensuring that children are well-prepared for the next stages of their education. The phonics program is effective, enabling pupils to become fluent readers by the end of key stage one.
The curriculum across the school is well-sequenced and of high quality, allowing pupils to develop a substantial bank of knowledge and skills. Lessons are engaging, and pupils are encouraged to discuss their learning with understanding. For instance, in a geography lesson, Year 2 pupils compared vegetation in different locations, demonstrating their ability to connect prior knowledge with new concepts.
Pupils exhibit exceptional attitudes towards learning and each other, contributing to a positive school culture. The school actively supports those who may struggle to meet high expectations, ensuring that all pupils feel included and valued. Attendance rates are high, and the school takes proactive measures to address any issues that arise.
Personal development is a key focus, with the school providing opportunities for pupils to contribute to their community through charity work and various extracurricular activities. The curriculum promotes respect and tolerance, and pupils are encouraged to express their opinions, leading to initiatives that enhance their school experience.
Leadership at the school is characterized by a relentless pursuit of excellence. Leaders prioritize professional development for staff, ensuring they are well-supported in their roles. The governance structure is effective, with trustees and governors working collaboratively to hold leaders accountable.
The safeguarding arrangements in place are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, St Mary & St Thomas Aquinas Catholic Primary School exemplifies a commitment to high standards in education, personal development, and community engagement, making it a model for excellence in primary education.
