St Gregory’s Catholic College in Bath has been awarded the highest possible grade in every area of its recent independent inspection, achieving Outstanding across the board.
The CSI (Catholic School Inspection) evaluated three key areas of Catholic education: Catholic Life and Mission, Religious Education, and Collective Worship. St Gregory’s achieved the highest grade of Outstanding (Grade 1) in each area, as well as an overall Outstanding judgement for the quality of Catholic education provided.
This marks the third consecutive inspection the school has achieved Outstanding in all areas, a rare distinction that places St Gregory’s among the highest-performing faith schools in the country.
A school where every child matters
The inspection report highlights the school’s pastoral care as “exemplary,” describing it as a cornerstone of what makes St Gregory’s special. Inspectors observed staff going “above and beyond” to support students, with particular focus on those who are most vulnerable.
Parents’ voices featured strongly throughout the report. One parent commented: “We are highly blessed to be part of this wonderful school community,” while another said, “Children at the school flourish because of the outstanding guidance from teachers and staff.”
The inspectors noted that students from all backgrounds – regardless of faith tradition – feel genuinely welcomed and valued. This inclusive ethos runs through every aspect of school life.
Outstanding learning environment
Inspectors found “a very strong culture of learning in all classrooms and across all key stages in religious education” where students are actively engaged and articulate about their learning experiences.
One student reflected that “Religious education is the only subject that allows you to talk about difficult topics,” highlighting the way the school helps young people navigate a complex world. Another described their learning as giving them “a lens to look through.”
The school’s outcomes have been consistently above national averages. But inspectors also recognised that St Gregory’s develops students as thoughtful, compassionate young people who understand their responsibility to contribute beyond themselves.
Developing future-ready young people
St Gregory’s commitment to whole-person education is evident in the breadth of opportunities available to students. They run their own senate, organise charitable initiatives, take on ambassador roles, and engage in projects ranging from Holocaust education to supporting the local food bank.
The report highlighted the school’s comprehensive programme of retreats, Masses, and prayer opportunities that support students’ spiritual development across all year groups.
The school’s lay chaplain was singled out for particular praise, described as “a visible presence” who “is an excellent role model and makes a significant contribution to the Catholic life and collective worship of the school.”
These opportunities are integral to the curriculum, helping students develop the character and awareness they will need as adults.
Melissa George, Headteacher, said:
“This Outstanding judgement is a testament to the dedication, faith and passion of our entire school community – students, staff, governors, parents and local parishes. At St Gregory’s, we don’t just teach about faith; we live it every day. Our Catholic identity shapes everything we do, from caring for every vulnerable student to providing high-quality education in every classroom.
“I am incredibly proud of how our students embrace their faith journey and become agents of change in the world. This recognition affirms what we have always believed: when you educate the whole person – spiritually, academically and personally – young people truly flourish.
“Whether families choose St Gregory’s for our faith tradition or for our values-driven approach to education, they find the same thing: a place where their child is known and supported to be the very best version of themselves.
“Our family ethos – ‘At St Gregory’s we are family’ – isn’t just a motto. It’s how we operate every day. This inspection confirms that approach works.”
Receiving Outstanding in every area for the third time in a row reflects the school’s ongoing commitment to excellence and the strength of its supportive community.