Leaders “have overhauled the culture of the school.” – Ofsted praises transformation at The Salesian Academy of St John Bosco

The Salesian Academy of St John Bosco, in Bootle, is celebrating a major milestone in its improvement journey after its latest Ofsted inspection recognised the significant changes that have taken place across the school.

Since becoming part of Pope Francis Catholic Multi Academy Trust, the school has undergone a period of rapid and sustained change. Under new leadership the school has been achieving improved outcomes, and broken ground on a new school building. Inspectors noted in the report that leaders have led a “steady journey of improvement” and have “overhauled the culture of the school”.

Sue Bourgade, Headteacher at The Salesian Academy of St John Bosco, said: “We are incredibly proud of the progress recognised in this report. Our school has been on a remarkable journey over the past few years, and this inspection highlights what we already knew – that our school is improving.

“Coming out of special measures is a hugely significant moment for us and reflects how far we have come. We are not complacent - there is more to do - but we are now in a strong position to accelerate further improvements and ensure that every child achieves their full potential.

“Our staff, pupils and wider community have done us proud through their commitment to this improvement, standing by the school, working in partnership with us, and supporting the children every day. We now look ahead with confidence to our new school building and the next chapter in our journey.”

Under Ofsted’s updated framework, schools are assessed across a five-point scale. Rather than a single overall grade, inspectors judge each area against these standards. At The Salesian Academy of St John Bosco, several areas now meet the expected standard, while others are identified as needing attention, reflecting the strong progress made alongside clear priorities for further improvement. Safeguarding standards were also met.

The report highlights the transformation in culture and behaviour, noting that “staff are effusive in their praise of leaders and the shift in the school’s culture”. Pupils now demonstrate “respect” and “courteous conduct towards adults”, with inspectors recognising that “high expectations, warm relationships and a strong sense of moral purpose” underpin the school’s work.

The report recognises that leaders are “determined to raise pupils’ aspirations” and are increasingly supporting disadvantaged pupils to overcome barriers to learning. Pupils are “becoming more aspirational about what they can do and achieve”, with growing numbers progressing to ambitious post-16 pathways. Pupils are described as “happy and proud to attend this school”.

The report highlighted several strengths, including: 

The report notes that pupils are now “learning more securely than in the past” and that leaders have “put important improvements in place”, with “early signs that these actions are beginning to make a difference”. 

Andrew Dawson, CEO at Pope Francis CMAT, added: “This report is a testament to the dedication and commitment of the school’s leaders, staff and pupils. 

“The change that has taken place is significant, and I would like to congratulate Sue Bourgade and her team for the determination they have shown in driving this improvement.

“As a Trust, we work in unity to support all of our schools, and this outcome reflects the strength of that collaboration. We are proud to stand alongside the school as it continues to build on this success.”

If you would like to find out more about the school, or follow along on their journey, please visit their school website: www.thesalesiansacademyofstjohnbosco.org