27
Feb
Harrogate school awarded outstanding Christian values inspection report
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St Aidan’s Church of England High School was awarded an outstanding SIAMS inspection this month.
SIAMS (Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools) inspectors visited the school on February 10 and 11.
The inspections assess the school’s success in living out its Church foundation and ensuring students and staff flourish academically, personally and spiritually.
Inspectors praised the school for the depth and authenticity with which its Christian vision is lived out.
They said:
Christian leadership is central to this large community, fostering relationships that recognise each person as uniquely created in God’s image. Leaders, including governors and the Yorkshire Causeway Schools Trust, guide the school with integrity and bravery. The firmly embedded Christian vision is clear and purposeful.
The report also highlighted St Aidan’s compassionate leadership and support for all students, including those with additional needs or disadvantages.
Inspectors added that the school’s values of wisdom, aspiration, learning well together and kindness ensure that individuals are carefully supported in their wellbeing and mental health.
They said:
Effective strategies are in place that support adults and students, enabling them to work and learn together for the betterment of both. Nurturing pastoral care effectively ensures that individuals experience ‘belonging’ regardless of needs and have the tools to work and learn. Pertinent systems exist to sustain good mental health and wellbeing, including counsellor support. Students know how to stay safe and well because they are taught how. They attend school because they enjoy it.
The report also noted the importance of religious study in the school.
It said that its focus on critical thinking, enquiry, and exploration of different religions and worldviews inspires students to think deeply about beliefs, ethics, and their own developing perspectives.
Headteacher Sian Dover said:
We are absolutely delighted with the SIAMS outcome. It is a powerful endorsement of the dedication, compassion, and professionalism shown by staff every day, and of the character, kindness, and courage of our students. Our Christian vision and our WALK values are at the heart of everything we do, and it is wonderful to see this recognised so clearly in the report. This inspection affirms our commitment to ensuring every young person feels known, supported, and encouraged to grow into their full potential.
Jane Goodwin, Yorkshire Causeway Schools Trust chief executive, said:
This SIAMS report beautifully reflects the strength of St Aidan’s Christian vision and the dedication of its staff and students. The school lives out our Trust mission - ‘Ambition, Learning and Enrichment for All’ - with integrity and purpose. St. Aidan’s ensures each student is seen, valued, supported, and inspired to flourish. We are incredibly proud of the school’s achievements and the vibrant, nurturing community it continues to build.
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