A school in the heart of the Alcester community is celebrating after being rated 'good' in its latest Ofsted report. 

St Benedict's Catholic High School proudly announced it was rated good in all areas following an Ofsted inspection on March 12 and 13. 

The school had previously been rated as 'requires improvement' in 2020 with the incredible turnaround being put down to the "commitment, hard work and passion" of students and staff. 

A highlight from the report included that the school leaders and pupils "share the same high aspirations" and they cater for all children regardless of faith or background 

Headteacher Luke Payton said: "The report reflects the commitment, hard work and passion of all our students and staff. All have worked tirelessly to improve the provision at St Benedict's and we are so proud that this has been reflected in such a positive Ofsted report." 

The school has been part of the Our Lady of the Magnificat Catholic MAC since September 2021 and said it has benefitted from unwavering support from the Trust to both improve and develop. 

The ability of children with SEND to access learning and achieve well was also praised by Ofsted inspectors. 

Mr Payton added: "We are a small school with a big heart and our community is the biggest strength of our school. We look forward to continuing to work together to achieve the very best for our students and their families." 

As an early participant in the DFE Behaviour Hubs Programme, the school was supported by St Augustine's Catholic High School. 

As the lead school for the hub, they helped St Benedict's make quick changes to culture and behaviour with the work being praised by Ofsted. 

CEO of Our Lady of the Magnificat Tom Leverage said: "It is wonderful to see the exceptional work of all staff recognised by Ofsted but also the recognition of strong governance that has demonstrated such a deep understanding of the school. 

"Our governors and directors are volunteers who are committed to placing the school at the centre of our community and it is through their diligence that the school has achieved so much over the last three years." 

The school also announced that Claire Paddock will be taking over as principal from Mr Payton on June 3. 

Ms Paddock has been senior assistant headteacher at St Benedict's since 2021 and has been "instrumental" in the progress the school has made. 

She said: "It is an exciting time and I am proud to lead this dynamic school community to the next stage."