St Gregory’s Catholic College in Bath has achieved the highest possible grade in every area of its recent Catholic School Inspection (CSI), earning Outstanding across the board for the third consecutive time.
Inspectors evaluated three key areas of Catholic education – Catholic Life and Mission, Religious Education, and Collective Worship – with St Gregory’s achieving Outstanding (Grade 1) in each, alongside an overall Outstanding judgement for the quality of Catholic education provided. The rare hat-trick places the school among the very highest-performing faith schools in the country.
A school where every child matters
The inspection report praised St Gregory’s pastoral care as “exemplary,” describing it as a cornerstone of what makes the school special. Inspectors noted that staff go “above and beyond” to support students, particularly those who are most vulnerable.
Parents’ views were central to the report’s findings, with one parent saying, “We are highly blessed to be part of this wonderful school community,” and another adding, “Children at the school flourish because of the outstanding guidance from teachers and staff.”
The report also highlighted the school’s inclusive ethos, where students from all backgrounds – regardless of faith – feel welcomed, respected and valued.
Outstanding learning environment
Inspectors found “a very strong culture of learning in all classrooms and across all key stages in religious education,” with students described as engaged, articulate and reflective about their learning.
One student shared that “Religious education is the only subject that allows you to talk about difficult topics,” while another explained that their lessons give them “a lens to look through” – capturing how the school helps students explore complex ideas and values.
Academic outcomes at St Gregory’s have consistently exceeded national averages, but inspectors also recognised how the school develops young people who are compassionate, thoughtful and aware of their role in the wider community.
Developing future-ready young people
The report celebrated the breadth of opportunities available to students, from the student senate and charitable initiatives to ambassador roles and projects such as Holocaust education and food bank support.
Inspectors also praised the school’s lay chaplain as “a visible presence” and “an excellent role model,” noting their significant contribution to collective worship and spiritual life. Retreats, Masses and prayer opportunities form an integral part of the school’s curriculum, helping students grow in faith, character and awareness.
Living faith every day
Headteacher Melissa George 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.
“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 St Gregory’s continued commitment to excellence and the strength of its supportive, faith-filled community.
