London: St Benedict's 'Outstanding' Inspection

St Benedict's in Ealing has received a glowing inspection report from the Diocese of Westminster, in which the Catholic life of the school and the quality of its religious education were found to be 'outstanding'.

The inspection report praises St Benedict's rich and vibrant prayer life and the way in which St Benedict's pupils are developed as leaders, through participating in liturgy and in the school's focus on issues of social justice. Pupils are encouraged to contribute to the common good through an extensive voluntary service programme in the local community and through active commitment to charities such as The Passage (which supports London's homeless), Mary's Meals, and The Foundation of Goodness, which provides help for rural communities in Sri Lanka.

The inspectors highlighted pupils' "religious literacy", their "exemplary behaviour and attitudes to learning" and the school's "clear vision for religious education to be the best it can be". They also commended St Benedict's for the excellence of its teaching and pupil-teacher relationships, the strength and cohesion of its community, its engagement with parents and other schools, and the quality of the school's leadership and management.

Headmaster Andrew Johnson, said: "We are delighted that the inspectors have recognised the school's many strengths. The report is a great credit to our excellent staff and wonderful pupils."

Approximately 54% of St Benedict's pupils are Catholics, with around 30% from other Christian denominations and approximately 6% from other faiths. The remaining pupils are from families who have not declared a faith.