“The distinctiveness and effectiveness of Archbishop Holgate’s as a Church of England school are outstanding. Archbishop Holgate’s makes a very positive impact on the community it serves. The Christian vision and values are very explicit and drive all areas of school life. Leadership at all levels is exemplary. Consequently students’ thrive at the Academy and achieve above average results at both GCSE and A level.”
SIAMS
SIAMS is the inspection process for Diocesan Church Schools, it is independent of Ofsted. The principal objective of the inspection is to evaluate the distinctiveness and effectiveness of the school as a church school. Whilst the excellent academic outcomes that our students achieve are absolutely vital it is also important that we ensure that they also develop as well rounded young people will the qualities as well as qualifications to make a difference in the communities they serve.
Archbishop Holgate’s is rated Outstanding, the outcomes of the inspection are summarised below.
The distinctiveness and effectiveness of Archbishop Holgate’s as a Church of England school are outstanding:
- The Christian values of compassion, forgiveness, trust and justice permeate all aspects of school life leading to excellent academic outcomes and exceptional spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of all students.
- The Christian vocation, passion and vision of the leadership team and governors ensure that the school faithfully upholds and celebrates its Christian foundation effectively serving the local and wider community.
- The importance placed on collective worship and spiritual reflection ensures that the Christian ethos is central to daily life and promotes an atmosphere of calmness and peace.
- The inspirational leadership and exceptionally high profile of religious education (RE) affirms its place as a core subject and leads to excellent achievement for all student
Whilst there is much to be pleased about in the full report, key elements include:
- The school, through its distinctive Christian character, is outstanding at meeting the needs of all learners .
- Archbishop Holgate’s is a school where real opportunities for transformation exist.
- Students are inspired through the Christian vision and relentless outworking of the four values to live effectively as global citizens. These values are lived out in all aspects of school life resulting in confident, articulate young people who are ready to serve others in their community.
- This places Christian service at the heart of the school providing numerous opportunities for students to take part in fundraising, voluntary work and community action.
- The school consistently performs significantly above the national average, including in Post 16 vocational provision as well as in A Levels and GCSE. High aspirations for all ensure that progress is outstanding, including for vulnerable and disadvantaged students.
The impact of collective worship on the school community is outstanding:
- Collective worship is intrinsic to the life of the school. Worship is a distinct part of the day and is inspirational, transformative and inclusive.
- It has a significant impact on the daily lives of students including in relation to their attitudes, behaviour and desire to undertake community service.
The effectiveness of the religious education is outstanding:
- Religious education (RE) is regarded as ‘The Jewel in the Crown’ of the school. It is a top priority being seen as a core subject, essential to the living out of the Christian vision.
- Progress and standards are outstanding. GCSE (89.1% A*-C) and A level (100% A*-E) performance is exceptional, and a continually improving picture.
- The subject is exceptionally well led. The Head of RE is innovative and forward thinking in her role.
The effectiveness of the leadership and management of the school as a church school is outstanding:
- The leadership team and governors articulate a comprehensive Christian vision which is implemented and lived out with passion, drive and commitment.
- The headteacher models this through servant leadership inspiring all his staff to approach everything they do with compassion and love.
- The ‘threefold’ vision of values, care and achievement expresses clearly the desire of the school to provide the best possible education to students. The use of the biblical analogy of ‘living stones’ emphasises the importance of each individual being uniquely gifted and all being part of the foundation of the community.
- Parents feel part of a family where all are cared for. They have a coherent understanding of the school’s vision and many chose to send their children to the school because of its reputation of providing outstanding support for the most vulnerable. Parents feel listened to and well informed through face to face conversations as well as through newsletters and use of social media.