The inspection highlighted exceptional standards in quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. The report recognised the excellent overall provision in the Sixth Form, in particular, the vast majority of students progressing to their first-choice university and high achievement in the majority of subjects. The report rated Sixth Form ‘Good’ with the recommendation to build on the strong practice so that it is consistent across all subjects.
Mary O’Keeffe, Headteacher at St Ignatius College, said:
“We are truly delighted that Ofsted have recognised the work that we do at St Ignatius College. This report is testament to the commitment of our staff who go above and beyond every day, to the hard work of our governors who give selflessly of their time and expertise, and to the support of our families. Most importantly, the report recognises the fine young people who we work with, our students who are striving to fulfil our mission to be men and women for others who will make the world a better place. St Ignatius College is at a wonderful stage of its development and will continue to go from strength to strength as we plan for our brand-new building and this new era for the College.”
Andrew Johnson, Delegate for Education for the British Province of Jesuits, said:
“It is wonderful to read this fantastic inspection report. Praise from Ofsted for St Ignatius College includes recognition of the College’s academic excellence, and its Magis curriculum, which offers a very wide range of co-curricular opportunities. Inspectors also praised the high quality of pastoral care at the College, and its strong Careers programme. A particular feature of Jesuit education is the promotion of social responsibility, and Ofsted lauded the ‘Ignatian Hands’ scheme at St Ignatius College, where older pupils assist their younger peers with their academic studies. All in all, it is very pleasing indeed to read the high praise Ofsted has given to the excellent Jesuit education offered at St Ignatius College.”
A culture of excellence and ambition
Inspectors praised St Ignatius College for fostering a highly ambitious and inclusive learning environment where pupils demonstrate exceptional conduct and leadership. Pupils are described as “proud ambassadors for their school”, with many taking on roles such as charity ambassadors, faith leaders, and sports team captains. The report highlighted the school’s emphasis on ‘social responsibility’, with sixth-form students volunteering as ‘Ignatian Hands’, offering support to younger pupils.
High academic standards and personal growth
The curriculum was commended for being “broad and highly ambitious,” with carefully sequenced content that builds cumulatively. Subjects such as modern foreign languages were singled out for their meticulous approach to ensuring that pupils grasp core concepts before progressing to more complex topics. Teachers were praised for their subject expertise and clarity, effectively identifying and addressing misconceptions while encouraging pupils to refine their work to a high standard.
Personal development and enrichment
The ‘Magis’ curriculum offers an extensive range of personal development opportunities, including a wide variety of extracurricular activities such as cooking, Latin, swimming, music production, and gospel choir. Pupils benefit from thoughtfully structured personal, social, health, and economic (PSHE) education that covers essential topics like healthy relationships and consent. Sixth-form students also engage in a robust careers programme, including visits to university fairs and various higher education institutions.
Strong leadership and governance
The leadership and governance at St Ignatius College were described as “highly effective,” with a strong focus on staff well-being and professional development. Leaders demonstrated swift and decisive action in addressing areas for improvement in the sixth form, reflecting a commitment to continuous enhancement.
Safeguarding measures in place
Safeguarding procedures were judged to be effective, with the school fostering a culture of vigilance and care that ensures pupils’ safety and well-being.
To learn more about St Ignatius College you can visit the website here.
Photo credit: St Ignatius College, Enfield
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