The Saint John Henry Newman School

The Saint John Henry Newman School is a popular 11-18 mixed Catholic comprehensive school in Stevenage, and is a member of the Diocese of Westminster Academy Trust. The school serves the Catholic community across north Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and as far south as Hatfield, with pupils from more than 25 different parishes. It has an excellent reputation; it is heavily oversubscribed and there are continuing interest lists for all year groups. The roll is currently approximately1600, including 400 in the Sixth Form. The school has benefitted from considerable investment in its buildings, including a new £3.5 million Sports and Performing block (The Pavilion) and a substantial new build programme that is due to be completed in July 2023.

Since its foundation in 1987, the school has developed a reputation for excellent educational standards combined with unique opportunities to prepare students for a rapidly changing world. This academic success has been acknowledged by the Department for Education, who have written to the school and acknowledged its excellent performance, commenting that The Saint John Henry Newman School is one of the top 90 schools in the country on one measure and in the top 100 schools in the country on another measure. In 2022/23 the students achieved: 

• 86% GCSE English and Maths at 9-4
• 37% of all GCSE grades achieved were 9-7
• 56% A Level at A*, A and B. 
• At A-level the pass rate for the last three years has been over 99%.

The Saint John Henry Newman Catholic School sees the quality of interpersonal relationships as the most significant factor in the provision of an outstanding education. The School strives to create the most conducive learning environment which results in our students fulfilling their potential and going out to change the world. Exam results, important though they are for opening doors for pupils in the future, do not determine success and happiness. Therefore we have a strong enrichment and wellbeing programme that encompasses every student and a comprehensive career curriculum. We have been awarded with the Kitemark for emotional health and wellbeing for our work supporting students, their families and staff.

Headteacher

Mr David Carrasco-Morley

Values and vision

The Saint John Henry Newman Catholic School works towards being a living Christian community where every student is known and valued for their differences and strengths. Serving the Catholic community across over 25 different parishes, the secondary school has a wide catchment area. Teachers are dedicated to giving students a well-rounded education that prepares them for further education and the wider world at this important time in their life.

Ofsted report

“The headteacher is determined to ensure that students achieve high levels of academic success, and become confident, caring and cultured individuals who contribute well to the school and the wider community. Leaders, including members of the governing body, ensure that the school is a safe environment and students are exceptionally well-cared for. Students’ excellent relationships with those who teach and support them contribute to their enjoyment of learning and their drive to succeed.”

View John Henry Newman Catholic School’s latest Ofsted report