Our Lady and St. Bede Catholic Academy, part of the Bishop Hogarth Catholic Education Trust, has been praised in its most recent Ofsted inspection, published on 9th September 2025, for its welcoming atmosphere, strong relationships, and commitment to supporting both pupils and staff.
Inspectors described Our Lady and St. Bede as “a welcoming school” where “there are strong and positive relationships between staff and pupils.” Pupils were noted as happy and safe, with their conduct recognised as “respectful and friendly.”
A particular strength highlighted was the school’s dedication to reading. Every day, time is set aside for pupils to “drop everything and read”—something pupils told inspectors they enjoy and that has encouraged them to read more widely.
The report also praised the wide range of opportunities available beyond the classroom. Most pupils take part in the clubs and activities on offer, including the St Vincent de Paul society, which enables them to support the local community through volunteering, delivering food parcels, and visiting care homes.
Teaching was described as underpinned by “strong subject knowledge” and supported by effective professional development for staff. Equality and diversity were also highlighted as key strengths, with events such as ‘Culture Day’ allowing pupils to celebrate and respect different cultures and beliefs.
Inspectors found that families and staff alike are proud of the school. “Many parents speak positively about the school,” the report states, while staff “appreciate the strategies that have been established to support their well-being.”
Headteacher Mo Wilkinson said: “We are delighted that Ofsted has recognised the hard work and dedication of our staff, pupils, and families. This report reflects our shared commitment to providing a safe, nurturing environment where every child can thrive. While we are proud of the progress we have made, we remain focused on continually improving to achieve the very best for every pupil.”
One pupil said: “Our school has really high ambitions for everyone. The teachers care about us and always encourage us to do our best. You can tell they want us to succeed, and it makes us proud to be part of the OLSB community.”
Another pupil said: “I’m proud to come here because everyone is supported to achieve their goals. There are so many opportunities, from clubs to leadership roles, and it feels like a place where you can really grow and succeed.”
The Ofsted report reinforces Our Lady and St. Bede’s reputation as a happy, nurturing, and ambitious school community where pupils thrive academically, personally, and socially.
