Blessed Thomas Holford Catholic College has been rated as 'Good' in all areas by Ofsted inspectors who praised the school's "calm yet joyful atmosphere" following its first inspection since 2022.
The Urban Road school, which has 1,555 pupils, has successfully reversed its fortunes after previously being downgraded to "Requires Improvement" in January 2023 - a significant drop from its 'Outstanding' rating held since 2013.
Inspectors who visited the school on March 18th and 19th 2025 highlighted the academic achievements and personal growth of students, stating: "The school has high levels of ambition for pupils' academic achievement. Pupils, including those who are disadvantaged, achieve highly."
The report particularly praised how the school prepares students for their future: "The school has placed strong emphasis on ensuring that pupils are well prepared for life in modern Britain. Pupils learn about different cultures and religions. This gives them an appreciation and understanding of difference."
Ofsted inspectors were impressed by the school's embedded routines which "have helped to cultivate a culture where pupils are ready to learn and eager to succeed", adding that "there is rarely any disruption to learning".
The report also commended the school's focus on literacy: "A culture and love of reading is embedded across the curriculum. Pupils read widely and often."
Headteacher Clare Hogg, who took over leadership following the departure of long-serving head John Cornally MBE, expressed her delight with the result.
"We are delighted that Ofsted has recognised the dedication, enthusiasm and hard work of our entire BTHCC family," said Mrs Hogg.
"This report reflects the unique opportunities and support we offer enabling our students to be who God calls them to be. BTHCC is a very special, joyful and wonderful place to belong and we cherish our college family."
Canon Pat Munroe also welcomed the findings, noting: "Ofsted makes reference on the BTHCC approach to being inclusive of those with disability and respect for the dignity of the human person… The Blessed Thomas Holford Catholic family are a source of Hope in this Holy Year: 'Pilgrims of Hope'."
The report noted significant improvements in leadership, with inspectors stating: "More recently, the school has begun to quicken its pace of improvement. A strengthened governing body, along with changes in leadership, have brought about positive change."
The school was praised for its successful focus on improving pupils' behavior and relationships, with sixth-form students acting as "mature role models for younger pupils."
While celebrating its successes, the report also identified areas for continued development, including ensuring assessment strategies effectively check what pupils know and that teachers are equipped with skills to adjust learning for all pupils.
This positive outcome represents a significant achievement for the school, which had previously expressed disappointment with the 2023 downgrade.
The school's values of "be kind, work hard, develop my whole self" were specifically mentioned by inspectors as being "not just words written on the wall" but values that are "lived out" by the school community.
