The recent Ofsted inspection and report on Mount St Mary’s Catholic High School complimented ‘pupils who behave impeccably in all aspects of school life’ and ‘are exceptionally well prepared for life beyond school’ by staff who ‘expertly deliver the curriculum’. Staff, students, parents and governors were delighted to have their efforts validated by Inspectors who declared the school to be ‘Outstanding’ in all four reportable areas of school life and provision: quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development and leadership and management.
The Mount St Mary’s community describes itself as a family living out its mission originally set out in the 1800s, to serve the most deprived areas of Leeds. To this day, almost 80% of the school’s intake reside in postcodes in the nation’s top 10% of areas with the most socio-economic deprivation. With over 45% of students identified as ‘disadvantaged’ and 52% with English as an additional language, there are more than 45 languages spoken in the school. One of the Ofsted inspectors described the school as ‘an oasis of hope in a desert of high deprivation’, a ‘highly inclusive’ learning establishment where ‘students recognise the positive impact it has on their lives’.
In a two-day inspection, it did not take the Ofsted team long to recognise the ‘genuine bond between staff and students’ which ‘enables all pupils to achieve highly’. With leadership and management described as ‘exemplary’, Head Teacher Mark Cooper and his staff have a daily focus and passion that feeds their belief in ‘the limitless potential of all students’ and a commitment to ‘the removal of barriers which may hinder their development; thus, enabling them to flourish, excel and lead in their chosen fields’.
Dorsa, Connor, Josh and Janaiba were among the students who met with the Ofsted Inspectors and all agreed: ‘No school deserves it more! Because of all the things we are doing each year in making it better, they can finally see what our school is really like – it shows how you can have a positive impact with good ideas and some hard work!’
Parents too were quick to celebrate the news, describing the ‘commendable dedication of staff in maintaining these high standards’. Agnieszka, whose daughter is in Year 10 said, ‘The moment I entered the gates I was sure that my daughter’s future, wellbeing and development were in the best hands. Teaching staff have always been amazing and during Covid my child appreciated the care and time given to her. I am truly grateful that Mount St Mary’s friendly atmosphere, and giving every student the best possible future was recognised by Ofsted inspectors!’ Parents also appreciate the school’s Catholic ethos. Emmanuel’s father enthused, ‘My family and I are so proud of this wonderful institution, no wonder the Lord led us to appeal to get our son into the school, we are so glad to have made that choice!’
Head Teacher Mark Cooper said, ‘We are delighted that the team of inspectors recognised the significant strengths of the student body, brought to fruition by a focussed and committed team of staff both teaching and non-teaching. We work hard for the benefit of our students and their families, believing they deserve the best footing in life, seeking to level the challenge of an inconsistent playing field, so that they can compete with those from more privileged beginnings. Whilst the findings are derived from Ofsted’s two-day process, the outcomes and impact are the product of tireless commitment over a protracted period of time. This is not the end but a timely recognition of sustained high-quality provision. The whole community will build upon these findings and continue to champion the successes of our wonderful students!’
Mount St Mary’s students, staff, and parents were involved in the 2025 Ofsted inspection process.
Recent Comments