A HEXHAM school has been rated ‘good’ with ‘outstanding’ attributes following a denominational inspection.

Religious education, collective worship and Catholic life at St Joseph’s RC Middle School were all areas examined during a recent visit by inspectors on behalf of the Hexham and Newcastle Diocese.

Inspectors David Lewis and Christine Ingle singled out the establishment of a spiritual council as an “excellent example of the school’s commitment to the development of the Catholic life of the school”.

The report noted that a new mission statement, adopted following the appointment of headteacher Fiona Conley in September 2015, had driven the school forward.

The close links with parish priest Fr Christopher Warren, who is a regular visitor to school in his roles as both chaplain and governor, were also acknowledged.

The report reads: “The governing body has, together with the headteacher, led what they call a revolution (in reviewing policies and structures) to best meet the needs of this Catholic school.

“There is a remarkable commitment to the needy and vulnerable and significant evidence that many parents specifically chose to send their children to St Joseph’s due to the tangible pastoral care in the best tradition of the Catholic church.”

The report follows a successful Ofsted inspection in February 2015, which also rated the school as ‘good’ with ‘outstanding’ features.

Headteacher Mrs Conley said: “We are absolutely thrilled to receive such a positive report that acknowledges St Joseph’s is good for overall effectiveness as a Catholic school following the denominational inspection.

“The recognition that three areas were deemed outstanding is excellent.

“The report clearly recognises the personal witness and commitment of governors, staff, parents and pupils.”