Liverpool academy achieves ‘Outstanding’ following Joint Denominational Inspection

The Academy of St Francis of Assisi, part of All Saints Multi Academy Trust, has been awarded ‘Outstanding’ following its latest Joint Denominational Inspection by the Diocese of Liverpool and the Archdiocese of Liverpool.

Following the Section 48 inspection, the academy achieved the highest possible judgement in areas such as the school’s distinctive Christian life, the effectiveness of collective worship, and the impact of leadership and management in developing the Christian life of the school.

The report highly praised The Academy of St Francis of Assisi and noted:

“The development of the school’s distinctive Christian nature is outstanding at meeting the needs of all learners.”

The inspection went on to highlight the strength of the school’s ethos and community, saying:

“The Academy of St Francis of Assisi has continued over time to establish what is now a whole generation of membership and connection within the local community and wider neighbourhoods.

“This is because its mission and values serve in maintaining a school ethos that is wholly Catholic and wholly Church of England. This is upheld by the Trust, headteacher, chaplain, and leaders, including governors, through an inclusive programme for monitoring and evaluation.”

The inspection also commended the school’s approach to collective worship, describing it as central to its Christian identity.

The report stated:

“Prayer and worship are well-led, inclusive and speak to the community of participants in terms of how its meaning can be lived in everyday life.”

Inspectors highlighted that the quality of religious education is good with outstanding features. They recognised that student performance has continued to rise since the last inspection in 2018. It is also wholly inclusive of the increased percentage of SEND (special educational needs and disabilities) students.

Inspectors also celebrated the dedication of headteacher, Ms Teresa Bleasdale. They recognised her committed senior leadership team, together with the continued support of All Saints Multi Academy Trust and governors.

The report noted:

“The Christian vision of the headteacher is rooted in the care of this Christian community and in ensuring its living of the mission to ‘Live, love and learn together in the light of Christ’, supported by its core values of pride (in each other), respect and ambition. Indeed, this vision is at the heart of everything that is undertaken at St Francis of Assisi. It is shared by the Trust, chaplain, leaders and governors.”

Headteacher of The Academy of St Francis of Assisi, Ms Teresa Bleasdale, said:

“We are absolutely delighted to have been awarded ‘Outstanding’ in our Joint Denominational Inspection.

“Our Christian mission of ‘Live, love and learn together in the light of Christ’ is not just a statement but something that shapes daily life across the academy. We are proud of the inclusive, nurturing environment we have built, where every young person is supported and encouraged to flourish academically, personally and spiritually. This recognition celebrates the strength of our community and the shared ambition we hold for every student to achieve their very best.”

CEO of All Saints Multi Academy Trust, Miss Heather Duggan, commented:

“We are overjoyed that The Academy of St Francis of Assisi has achieved ‘Outstanding’ in its Joint Denominational Inspection.

“This outcome is a testament to the dedication of the entire academy community and the strength of its Christian ethos. This is an academy that makes a real difference in the lives of young people and their families, and everyone involved should be proud of this result. Congratulations to Ms Bleasdale and her brilliant team!”