East London boys Catholic school 'Outstanding' in every way

O for Outstanding! Left to right: Joshua, Paul, Gabriel, Ify and Yusuf

St Bonaventure's school in East Ham has been found to be 'Outstanding' in all areas in their latest Ofsted report. This is the second time the school has come through with flying colours In their last inspection in 2009 they were also classified as 'Outstanding'. Ofsted's recent toughening up makes this achievement even more impressive as only 17% of schools have maintained this first rate accolade in recent times.

The achievement of boys in school is a hot topic of discussion, with education commentators questioning why boys' progress is slipping nationally, but St Bonaventure's is bucking the trend, proving itself to be a beacon of excellence in education where, according to Ofsted, "Pupils thrive in every way".

Whilst academic outcomes have remained superb at the historic school for many years, the glowing report takes care to emphasise the development of the individual beyond their grades, stating "all students are involved in charitable work to support local food banks." It is evident from this that St Bonaventure's creates not only academic success, but well-rounded citizens who are dedicated to the betterment of themselves and their community.

Headteacher, Mr McCormack, said: "We are incredibly proud to have maintained our Outstanding rating. Our welcoming community is committed to maintaining an environment of love and respect for all. We thank our staff for their continued dedication to the care, growth and development of our students; we thank our parents, partners and governors, without whom we would be unable to deliver such a high quality offer; and above all we are thankful to our students for their aspirational attitudes, and the love they show one another and our wider community."

Deputy Headteacher, Mr Lewis added: "St Bonaventure's is a school intent on developing students spiritually, intellectually, physically, creatively, morally and socially, as we know that school is not just a place for educational development but a foundational preparation for their next steps after secondary school."

The education watchdog cites the expertise of teachers as a key reason for the school's success, "teachers are experts in their subjects', Mrs Áine Burke, Deputy Head Teaching and Learning said she is immensely proud of the acknowledgement that "the quality of education at St Bonaventure's is excellent" and the recognition that "teachers are committed to professional development as a means to improve and develop their skills and knowledge." She said "Our teachers strive to give the best to our students every day and go the extra mile to do that".

Ofsted was also keen to praise student leadership at the school, stating "Pupils make an active contribution to the school. Many pupils in all years take on responsibility in the school, including for student leadership and fundraising. The student council is proud to have improved things for others. For example, on the school council's suggestion, leaders have introduced an 'Assisi tie' to recognise pupils who embody the 'Bonaventurian Way' by demonstrating the school's values."

Head Boy, Gabriel, confirmed this saying: "The opportunities I have been given have helped me to become more confident as a student and as a person. My team has been able to make a real impact in the school, and the work we've done with TFL and TELCO has improved safety for teenagers across the borough."

LINKS

View a Youtube summary of the Ofsted report here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=T9-_v886Pjc
Read the full report: https://files.ofsted.gov.uk/v1/file/50206010
To find out more about St Bonaventure's visit: www.stbons.org/ or follow on social media