About the school
Ofsted and Diocese Inspections
“La Sainte Union is a Catholic school with a long history and tradition. The tradition builds on values of ‘warm relationships, integrity and justice’. We experienced how these values influence the pleasant, welcoming atmosphere in the school.” Ofsted 2019
“Pupils explained clearly what they like best about the school – their teachers, the large grounds and the diversity of the community. Pupils are considerate of each other… There is a calm atmosphere, including in the playground and in lessons.” Ofsted 2019
“There is a very wide enrichment programme of extra activities for pupils. This includes subject clubs, a debating club, a drama club, a music club and many others. Pupils take part in two school drama productions each year... The school’s orchestra also performs three large musical events each year.” Ofsted 2019
“There is a strong drive for social justice among the school community.” Ofsted 2019
“Students are happy, confident and feel valued by the school.” Catholic Schools Inspection 2023
“Relationships between staff and students are strong; students told inspectors they view the school as a place of safety in which they are well cared for.” Catholic Schools Inspection 2023
“The school successfully engages with parents and as a result, parents are supportive of the school’s mission.” Catholic Schools Inspection 2023
“Teachers have high expectations, and they model this frequently in lessons by supporting students to develop their knowledge and understanding.” Catholic Schools Inspection 2023
Mission
At La Sainte Union Catholic School, our mission is to create a flourishing community inspired by the life and teachings of Our Lord Jesus Christ. Rooted in Christian principles, we are dedicated to fostering a dynamic and compassionate environment that promotes the flourishing of all its members. We acknowledge that our connections with one another are deemed "sacred" through the principles of:
- Service,
- Academia,
- Cooperation,
- Respect,
- Excellence,
- and Dignity
Our commitment spans three key dimensions: Students, Staff, and Community. Please see our full Mission Statement below.
La Sainte Union Mission Statement
Curriculum
Our rigorous academic curriculum ensures broad progression pathways post-16 and post-18. There is a constant emphasis on high levels of literacy, intellectual challenge and pupils’ development as independent learners. Lessons are engaging and the sequencing of learning is carefully mapped by curriculum leaders.
“Pupils told us that they find their learning challenging but fun.” Ofsted 2019.
We are equally committed to developing students’ skills and knowledge beyond the classroom: all year groups are strongly encouraged to take part in our wide range of councils, clubs, societies and school events. Regular trips and a range of speakers ensure that girls are inspired to consider careers in a wide range of fields, including those not traditionally accessed by women. Our STEAM curriculum is particularly strong.
“Leaders expect all pupils to achieve their best. Pupils respond well to their teachers’ high expectations. School leaders have planned the curriculum well so that all pupils study and achieve highly in a wide range of subjects.” Ofsted 2019
Pastoral care
La Sainte Union staff, with their strong subject knowledge, work tirelessly to ensure all students achieve their full academic potential. The success of our school is also based on excellent relationships between staff and students and the dedicated support of subject and pastoral staff. Girls therefore feel safe and well cared for, and this is reflected in an ethos and culture amongst students of kindness and respect for others.
Our aim and ethos is also the integration of different identities relating to ability, belief, ethnicity, gender and sexuality. Girls of other faiths or no faith are well integrated and interfaith dialogue is also a key part of our religious education programme. Students have access to an extensive programme of religious education and worship, including daily prayers, weekly Mass and a retreat programme for pupils. The House system provides extensive leadership opportunities, promotes healthy competitions and enables students of all age groups to work collaboratively and to learn from each other. The Sixth Formers are excellent role models and take an active part in supporting younger students through a peer leadership programme.
“I feel confident at La Sainte Union and have made a lot of friends here. I have received tremendous support from all the staff. La Sainte Union is a caring community.” Year 7 pupil
Experience for life
Students are expected to engage fully in the life of the school and are given many opportunities to lead and organise key events such as assemblies, school council campaigns and charity fundraising.
Our extensive extracurricular programme in debating, drama, music and PE is a particular strength of the school with a wide variety of opportunities for students to showcase their talents and compete with other schools. Students frequently win awards in debating, drama and sports.
In addition, links with schools in France and Spain enhance both the language and cultural learning of students. Every other year, the school choir tours European Cathedrals and trips to CERN in Switzerland and NASA in Florida enrich the science curriculum.
There are many opportunities for student leadership, through committees, action groups and individual positions of responsibility. The school council groups meet the Headteacher fortnightly.
Unique opportunities
- Beautiful grounds, including dedicated outdoor spaces for a variety of leisure activities
- Sustained strong academic achievement
- Excellent behaviour
A broad academic curriculum at both GCSE and A level with impressive destinations to Higher Education.
The school has great teachers who encourage and engage my daughter to participate in activities so that she feels valued as a part of the La Sainte Union community. La Sainte Union continues to offer great support to my daughter, giving her every opportunity to share her experience, skills and thoughts.
Year 8 parent
