We are delighted to share the remarkable news that St Matthew Academy has been awarded the highest possible judgement - Outstanding in all five categories - in our recent Ofsted inspection conducted on 11th and 12th March 2025. This achievement is a testament to the hard work, dedication and passion of our entire school community.

We are so proud of the prodigious accolades in the inspection report across every area of school life, namely the quality of education; behaviour and attitudes; personal development; leadership and management; and our early years provision.

Highlights from the report include:

Our School

• Pupils receive an exceptional education. This starts in early years, where strong foundations are built, and continues through to the primary and secondary phases.
• The school takes a nurturing and caring approach, which leads to pupils feeling and being safe and secure.
• Pupils benefit from an exceptional enrichment offer. The school provides numerous, varied opportunities to nurture, develop, and stretch pupil’s talents and interests.
• The school places a high priority on making sure pupils develop a love of reading.
• The development of pupils’ spoken language is a priority.
• Leadership and management are exceptional.

Pupils

• Pupils develop a rich body of knowledge and achieve very highly. As a result, pupils are extremely well-prepared for the next stage of their education.
• Pupils are committed to their learning and take pride in their work.
• Pupils have highly positive attitudes and behave well in lessons.

Staff

• Staff have consistently high expectations of pupils’ behaviour and conduct. Pupils behave very well in all phases of their education.
• Teachers have strong subject knowledge.
• The teaching of early reading is highly effective.
• Staff develop positive working relationships with pupils.
• Staff benefit from high quality professional development, which enables them to continually improve their teaching.

Mr James Potter, Headteacher commented: “As we continue to serve our pupils and staff on this journey of excellence and continuous improvement, we are hugely encouraged that our school values of integrity, courage and service have been highlighted and validated by Ofsted as being evident throughout our work. We are deeply grateful to our families and wider community, whose ongoing support, trust and collaboration help us provide an environment where every child can thrive.”

Mr Jonathan Ronan, CEO, St Benedict Catholic Academy Trust added: “Pupils and staff at St Matthew Academy have been showered with praise, and on behalf of the governing body and St Benedict Catholic Academy Trust, we would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations for this tremendous achievement. This Outstanding judgement is a proud milestone, but it is also a springboard. With renewed confidence, we will continue striving for excellence, ensuring every child at St Matthew Academy receives the very best education.”