Teachers and staff celebrate a good Ofsted report for school

Staff and students at a secondary school are celebrating being praised by Ofsted.
Mark Price Head of School at St Beds Catholic Comprehensive and Byron College with staff and pupils.Mark Price Head of School at St Beds Catholic Comprehensive and Byron College with staff and pupils.
Mark Price Head of School at St Beds Catholic Comprehensive and Byron College with staff and pupils.

The education watchdog rated St Bede’s Catholic Comprehensive School and Byron Sixth Form in Peterlee as good overall.

The Westway school, which was previously grated as requiring improvement, was given good in every aspect.

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Brendan Tapping, executive headteacher at the school, said: “The judgement reflects the hard work and support of students, parents, staff and governors.”

Mark Price, head of school, added: “This report is something to be very proud of.

“It comments not only on the strong academic progress of our pupils, but also on how school prepares pupils well for life with the Catholic values being at the heart of what we do.”

And chairman of governors, Anthony McCourt, added: “The governors are extremely pleased with this report which highlights that the quality of teaching at St Bede’s and Byron is good and engaging for all our young people.

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“It also acknowledges how the Catholic values underpin the curriculum, with pupils and students demonstrating mutual respect, tolerance and consideration for one another on a daily basis.”

In the report, inspectors said: “The executive headteacher’s vision, ambition and high expectations have led to rapid improvement in all aspects of school life.

“Senior leaders have an accurate understanding of the school’s strengths and areas that require further development.”

They said the quality of teaching at the school has seen a marked improvement, through new appointments, high quality professional development and decisive action taken to eradicate weaker practice.

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Inspectors said: “Pupils behave well in lessons and during the less structured times of the school day.

“They are polite, courteous and respectful.
“Pupils are proud to wear their uniform.”

The Peterlee school said it is elated with the inspection findings and are now looking to build on the judgement and work towards being outstanding.

There are still spaces available in September for both Year 7 and at the sixth form and anyone who would like more information should contact the school.