The Swindon secondary school received the highest possible Grade 1 (Outstanding) overall, with inspectors also awarding Outstanding ratings for Catholic life and mission, religious education, and collective worship.
The two-day inspection, which took place in April, found the school fully compliant with the requirements of the Bishops’ Conference. Inspectors also confirmed the school had addressed all recommendations made after its previous inspection, when it was rated Good.
In their report, inspectors described St Joseph’s as having a “profound sense of community”, where pupils flourish academically and spiritually within a strong Catholic ethos.
The report highlighted positive relationships across the school, calling it “a special place to work”, while also praising its commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Inspectors identified religious education as one of the school’s key strengths. They found pupils achieve results above the national average at Key Stage 4 and confidently apply their learning to everyday life.
Collective worship was also recognised as being central to school life, with inspectors saying prayer and liturgy have a powerful and positive influence on the wider school community.
The report praised pupils for their involvement in chaplaincy, charitable work and leadership opportunities, stating they respond “extremely positively to the call to service”.
Jerry Giles, Principal of St Joseph’s Catholic College, said:
“We are absolutely delighted that the Catholic Schools Inspectorate has recognised St Joseph’s as Outstanding in every area. This report reflects the dedication of our staff, the commitment of our students, and the strength of our faith community.
“At St Joseph’s, Christ is at the centre of everything we do, and it is wonderful to see our mission, values and Catholic life so clearly affirmed. We are incredibly proud of the way our young people live out their faith through service, respect and aspiration.”
Jessica Higgins, Chair of Governors, said:
“This Outstanding judgement is a testament to the shared vision and commitment of leaders, staff, students and the wider school community. Governors are immensely proud of the strong Catholic ethos and high standards highlighted by inspectors.
“We will continue to support the school in building on these strengths to ensure every student flourishes and achieves their full potential.”
Inspectors also noted that pupils from all backgrounds and faiths feel welcomed, valued and supported within the school community.
The report praised the impact of Catholic social teaching in helping pupils develop an understanding of service, compassion and community.
Strong links with the Diocese, local parishes and feeder primary schools were also recognised as playing an important role in supporting the school’s Catholic mission.
The Outstanding judgement marks a significant improvement since the school’s previous inspection and recognises what inspectors described as an exceptional standard of Catholic education across all aspects of school life.
