St John’s Catholic Primary School in Bath, part of the Dunstan Catholic Educational Trust, has been praised by Catholic education inspectors after being judged outstanding for its Catholic life, leadership and religious education provision.
The Catholic Schools Inspectorate (CSI), which assesses Catholic schools on overall effectiveness, Catholic life and mission, religious education and collective worship, highlighted the school’s strong sense of community, inclusive culture and high-quality teaching.
Inspectors said authentic servant leadership ‘permeates the whole school culture’, creating ‘a strong Catholic community where all are welcomed with warmth and love’, adding: ‘it feels like everyone belongs here, it is one big community, it’s the perfect place to be’.
The report also praised the strong relationships between staff and pupils, noting that these lead to trust, respect and exemplary behaviour throughout the school.
Inspectors highlighted pupils’ enthusiasm for prayer and worship, saying children are proud to take on leadership roles in planning and delivering prayer and liturgy from a young age. Singing and collective worship were also recognised as meaningful parts of school life.
Religious education lessons were singled out for particular praise, with inspectors commenting that pupils are enthusiastic in RE lessons, engage well and confidently use their knowledge to make links and refer to scripture in their responses.
Other positive comments in the report included praise for staff as exemplary role models and recognition of the school’s “strong culture of warm welcome and belonging”.
Inspectors also noted that pupils of all backgrounds are treated with dignity and that staff ‘go above and beyond’ to support children and their families.
The report further praised the school’s inclusive approach to faith and culture, highlighting how families from different faith backgrounds are invited into school to share their experiences and support pupils’ understanding.
Mrs Bennett and Mr Simmons, Co-Headteachers at St John’s Catholic Primary School, said, “We are absolutely delighted that St John’s has been recognised as outstanding by the Catholic Schools Inspectorate. This report reflects the dedication, compassion and commitment of our entire school community.
“Our pupils are at the heart of everything we do, and we are incredibly proud of the way they live out our Catholic values each day through their kindness, enthusiasm and love of learning. This achievement is a testament to the hard work of our staff, the support of our families, and the strength of our shared mission.”
Helen Taylor, CEO of the Dunstan Catholic Educational Trust, said, “This outstanding judgement is a wonderful reflection of the deeply rooted Catholic ethos at St John’s. The report highlights the exceptional leadership, strong relationships and genuine sense of belonging that define this school community.
“I am incredibly proud of the staff and pupils who live out the trust’s values so consistently, and of the inclusive, welcoming environment they have created where every child is known, valued and supported to flourish.”
