St Cuthbert’s Catholic Primary School in Stockton-on-Tees is celebrating a remarkable achievement after being graded Outstanding in its recent Catholic Schools Inspectorate (CSI) report. Inspectors praised the school’s exceptional Catholic life, mission and religious education, describing a community where faith, belonging and aspiration are lived out daily.
The report highlights that the mission of St Cuthbert’s is “known, understood and lived by the whole community.” Pupils, staff, governors and families genuinely “Delight in the Lord, and in… all that is good,” a sentiment that is reflected in the warm, respectful relationships visible across classrooms and corridors. Inspectors noted that the learning and play environment offers a vibrant and visible expression of the school’s distinctive Catholic culture, with pupils speaking proudly about what makes their school so special.
A favourite line from the report, cherished by the school community, reads: “St Cuthbert’s serves not only as a safe and welcoming haven for the local community but also as a beacon of aspiration and hope for the people of Stockton.” This powerful statement captures the heart of what the school strives to be and the difference it makes in the lives of its children and families.
Parents also shared heartfelt reflections during the inspection, echoing the school’s strong impact on family life. Comments such as, “I’m so grateful to God that we have joined this school,” and “The school gives us exactly what we want,” reinforce the inspectors’ findings that St Cuthbert’s mission is deeply embedded in daily practice and warmly felt throughout the community.
Children’s pride in their learning was particularly commended, with their religious education books described as beautifully presented and offering a rich celebration of their understanding and creativity. Inspectors also highlighted the school’s ability to help pupils flourish spiritually, balancing Catholic tradition with contemporary and creative expressions of prayer that engage and inspire.
Headteacher Sian Parnell said, “We are incredibly proud of our CSI report and we are thrilled that it captures our whole school community which encourages all to 'flourish' with 'Christ at the heart...within a climate of love.”
Leaders, governors and staff at St Cuthbert’s and Bishop Hogarth Catholic Education Trust have expressed immense pride in this Outstanding judgement, recognising it as a testament to the shared dedication, love and faith that define their school community. This achievement marks an important milestone for the school and reflects the collective effort that continues to make St Cuthbert’s a place of hope, aspiration and joy for the people of Stockton.