Cathedral of Notre Dame Secures Third Successive 'Outstanding' Rating from Ofsted
Notre Dame Catholic Sixth Form College in Leeds has once again secured the prestigious 'Outstanding' grade in all six key judgement areas following its September 2024 inspection by Ofsted[1][3][4][5]. This remarkable achievement showcases the college's exceptional commitment to providing high-quality education and fostering an environment that supports the growth and development of its students.
The inspection report praises Notre Dame for its culture of high expectations and support, where students are encouraged to reach their academic and personal potential[2]. The college's focus on developing students' resilience and independence is also commended, as is its commitment to character development, including the Stella Maris Leadership Award program[6][7].
Through Philosophy, Theology, and Ethics lessons, students at Notre Dame are exposed to a wide range of current social, cultural, and political issues, preparing them for life in modern Britain[8]. The college's investment in resources and facilities, such as the mock courtroom, science laboratories, and improving access to study spaces and IT facilities, is also recognized and commended[9].
The high achievement at Notre Dame is attributed to the entire college community, with College Principal, Justine Barlow, stating that the success reflects the dedication of staff, hard work of students, and the college's distinctive ethos[10]. The college's commitment to academic excellence, personal development, and its inclusive Catholic ethos is highlighted in the report[11].
Students at Notre Dame develop skills, habits, and virtues needed for life and work, becoming well-rounded individuals with a strong sense of citizenship[12]. The college provides a safe and supportive environment, with strong safeguarding measures in place[13]. The benefits of this approach are reflected in students' "highly positive and mature attitudes"[14].
Ofsted also praises the high-quality resources and facilities at Notre Dame, creating an "enriching environment" for students[9]. The college's focus on meeting the needs of all students, including those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), is also commended, with teachers tailoring support to help students progress successfully[15].
Notre Dame Catholic Sixth Form College's work with local employers and universities to provide valuable work-related experience further cements its position as a leading sixth form college[16]. Since 2008, Notre Dame is the only sixth form provider in Leeds to be consistently graded 'Outstanding', setting a high standard for educational excellence in the city[1].
This latest achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in the Notre Dame community. The college continues to strive for excellence, fostering an environment where students thrive in a culture of high expectation and ambition[17].
[1] https://www.notredameleeds.org.uk/news/notre-dame-catholic-sixth-form-college-achieves-outstanding-status-across-all-areas-in-latest-ofsted-inspection/ [2] https://www.notredameleeds.org.uk/news/notre-dame-catholic-sixth-form-college-achieves-outstanding-status-across-all-areas-in-latest-ofsted-inspection/ [3] https://www.notredameleeds.org.uk/news/notre-dame-catholic-sixth-form-college-achieves-outstanding-status-across-all-areas-in-latest-ofsted-inspection/ [4] https://www.notredameleeds.org.uk/news/notre-dame-catholic-sixth-form-college-achieves-outstanding-status-across-all-areas-in-latest-ofsted-inspection/ [5] https://www.notredameleeds.org.uk/news/notre-dame-catholic-sixth-form-college-achieves-outstanding-status-across-all-areas-in-latest-ofsted-inspection/ [6] https://www.notredameleeds.org.uk/news/notre-dame-catholic-sixth-form-college-achieves-outstanding-status-across-all-areas-in-latest-ofsted-inspection/ [7] https://www.notredameleeds.org.uk/news/notre-dame-catholic-sixth-form-college-achieves-outstanding-status-across-all-areas-in-latest-ofsted-inspection/ [8] https://www.notredameleeds.org.uk/news/notre-dame-catholic-sixth-form-college-achieves-outstanding-status-across-all-areas-in-latest-ofsted-inspection/ [9] https://www.notredameleeds.org.uk/news/notre-dame-catholic-sixth-form-college-achieves-outstanding-status-across-all-areas-in-latest-ofsted-inspection/ [10] https://www.notredameleeds.org.uk/news/notre-dame-catholic-sixth-form-college-achieves-outstanding-status-across-all-areas-in-latest-ofsted-inspection/ [11] https://www.notredameleeds.org.uk/news/notre-dame-catholic-sixth-form-college-achieves-outstanding-status-across-all-areas-in-latest-ofsted-inspection/ [12] https://www.notredameleeds.org.uk/news/notre-dame-catholic-sixth-form-college-achieves-outstanding-status-across-all-areas-in-latest-ofsted-inspection/ [13] https://www.notredameleeds.org.uk/news/notre-dame-catholic-sixth-form-college-achieves-outstanding-status-across-all-areas-in-latest-ofsted-inspection/ [14] https://www.notredameleeds.org.uk/news/notre-dame-catholic-sixth-form-college-achieves-outstanding-status-across-all-areas-in-latest-ofsted-inspection/ [15] https://www.notredameleeds.org.uk/news/notre-dame-catholic-sixth-form-college-achieves-outstanding-status-across-all-areas-in-latest-ofsted-inspection/ [16] https://www.notredameleeds.org.uk/news/notre-dame-catholic-sixth-form-college-achieves-outstanding-status-across-all-areas-in-latest-ofsted-inspection/ [17] https://www.notredameleeds.org.uk/news/notre-dame-catholic-sixth-form-college-achieves-outstanding-status-across-all-areas-in-latest-ofsted-inspection/
The education-and-self-development of students at Notre Dame Catholic Sixth Form College is prioritized not only through high-quality instructional programs but also through focus on character development, resilience, and independence. This comprehensive approach to education is reflected in the general-news of the college achieving the prestigious 'Outstanding' grade in all six key judgement areas following its September 2024 inspection by Ofsted.
