Archbishop McGrath Catholic High School provides a very caring and supportive environment, which most pupils are proud to be part of. The Catholic ethos, which recognises that ‘every child is a unique individual, precious to God’, is fundamental to all aspects of school life. Many pupils develop successfully as ethical, informed citizens. They learn to demonstrate respect and to promote virtues including gratitude and compassion. Most teachers foster purposeful working relationships with their classes and demonstrate strong subject knowledge. Many pupils make sound progress in the development of their knowledge, understanding and skills. The quality of teaching makes a positive contribution to pupils’ wellbeing and personal development, as well as the standards that they achieve. In recent years, the school’s leadership has been successful in supporting improvements in pupil outcomes, wellbeing, behaviour and attendance. However, senior leaders have not consulted well enough with staff about important changes and decision-making arrangements are not always transparent enough. This has contributed to low staff morale and made it difficult for them to carry out their duties as thoroughly as before. Inspection area Judgement Standards Good Wellbeing and attitudes to learning Good Teaching and learning experiences Good Care, support and guidance Good Leadership and management Adequate and needs improvement 2 A report on Archbishop McGrath Catholic School November 2019 Recommendations R1 Improve consultation and communication, including around decision-making R2 Increase the precision of self-evaluation processes at all levels R3 Strengthen provision for the progressive development of pupils’ skills R4 Address the safeguarding issue identified during the inspection What happens next The school will draw up an action plan to show how it is going to address the recommendations. Estyn will review the school’s progress