Please click here to view the S48 Inspection Report.

St Thomas’ had its RE inspection on 2nd March 2017. Two inspectors, Mr Scully and Mrs Horsfield, were in school for the whole day carrying out a range of activities: lesson observations-including joint observations, looking through pupils’ books, talking to staff/ pupils/ parents, attending a class assembly, observing Rosary and the Mini Vinnies groups and looking at displays and RE focal areas.

I feel very proud and privileged to be a Catholic Headteacher at St Thomas’ where it has been our mission to ensure that we are a witness to the Gospel values and traditions of our faith. All staff and governors whether Catholic or non-Catholic, uphold the vision of a Catholic school and understand that faith underpins every aspect of school life. They are to be congratulated on their commitment and hard work.

I would like to thank the parents for their support and for taking the time to fill out the questionnaires. We had a lot of responses, with the majority extremely positive. One parent wrote: “St Thomas’ respects Catholic traditions but is also very welcoming and inclusive of other faiths…..it is a lovely, diverse school with a strong sense of family and an open, friendly community.” Parental attendance at school/class masses, assemblies, special events during Advent and Lent, end of RE topic celebrations is greatly appreciated and demonstrates ways in which we come together as a worshipping community.

The pupils are a credit to their families and school. Their behaviour was noted as outstanding: “As a result of the strong community spirit in the school where diversity is celebrated, pupils’ behaviour is outstanding, not just in the classroom but in all aspects of school life.” In the report it also states: “Pupils are confident about their faith and through active participation in lessons, liturgies and various acts of worship are capable of expressing their views in an assured manner.” Pupils achieve well because they are keen to learn and fully participate in all activities.

I would like to end with a final quote: “Of particular note, and of great credit to the school leadership and staff, is the inclusive nature of the community which ensures that while the faith life of the school strongly maintains its rich Catholic traditions, St Thomas’ celebrates the faiths of all its pupils and those of none in a caring and sensitive manner, thereby nurturing all pupils on their various faith journeys.”

Thank you once again for your continued support.

Miss L D’Agostini

Headteacher