Outstanding results at the country’s top performing Catholic Multi-Academy Trust

Another DoWAT school has been praised for exceptional personal development, inclusive ethos and strong student engagement. St Michael’s Catholic High School, Watford, has received an exceptional Ofsted report that praises the school’s outstanding approach to personal development, inclusivity, and student wellbeing.

Inspectors highlighted how pupils at St Michael’s are prepared for life in modern Britain through a well-structured and deeply impactful personal development programme. The report praises the respectful, kind and mature behaviour demonstrated by students, as well as their strong engagement with the wider school community.

The report also highlighted the school’s broad and ambitious curriculum, as well as the enthusiasm with which students participate in extracurricular activities, clubs and leadership opportunities. Inspectors noted that students actively support their peers, develop strong friendships and consistently demonstrate positive behaviour.

Importantly, the school’s approach to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) was also recognised. Tailored strategies and consistent monitoring ensure that every child is nurtured to reach their full potential. This performance is consistent with DoWAT’s above average outcomes for children with SEND.

As a member of the Diocese of Westminster Academy Trust (DoWAT), St Michael’s plays a vital role in a high-performing family of schools committed to excellence rooted in Catholic values. DoWAT has been named the highest performing Multi-Academy Trust in the country for the second year in a row