Long before the publication of the Department for Education’s white paper, Every Child Achieving and Thriving, we had embedded the culture of inclusive practice across our curriculum, teaching and leadership.
The white paper’s emphasis on high standards, strong attendance and excellence for every child reinforces an approach we have championed for years: inclusion and high expectations go hand in hand.
The seven-year journey to success that all our pupils take has secured results that places St Thomas More in the top 4% of schools nationally for A-level results.
Our work is recognised through our selection as a centre of excellence for Regional Improvements for Standards and Excellence (RISE). RISE is a national initiative that encourages schools to share effective practice and become a beacon of excellence for others to learn from.
It enables visiting leaders and teachers from other schools to observe classroom practice, discuss strategies with staff and pupils, and take practical, evidence-informed ideas back to their own schools.
This recognition reflects tangible outcomes. Our attendance places us in the top 10% of schools nationally, while pupil progress and attainment place the school firmly among the highest performing schools nationally.
These outcomes demonstrate that high expectations, inclusive teaching and targeted support are mutually reinforcing.
During the recent RISE Open Education Fortnight, educators visited St Thomas More Catholic School as an example of exceptional practice.
They experienced learning in action, where challenge is provided for all and all succeed, behaviour systems create calm and purposeful learning, and embedded strategies strengthen attendance through culture, strong relationships, and early intervention.
Crucially, support for disadvantaged pupils is fully integrated into high-quality teaching, rather than treated as an additional layer, where their success far exceeds national averages.
At St Thomas More Catholic School, inclusion is not about adapting the curriculum – it is about making success possible for every child.
Belonging strengthens attendance. Attendance drives engagement. Engagement secures attainment and future success and opportunities. Inclusion is not simply a principle – it is how every pupil can succeed, thrive and make a difference.
