Saint John Houghton Catholic Voluntary Academy Review 2026: Faith and Focus in Ilkeston

Tucked away in Kirk Hallam, adjacent to the local community academy but distinct in spirit and structure, Saint John Houghton Catholic Voluntary Academy (SJH) stands as a beacon of faith-based education in Derbyshire. Serving the Catholic communities of Ilkeston, Long Eaton, and Stapleford, this 11-16 comprehensive school punches well above its weight academically.

Ranked 1st in Ilkeston for GCSE performance (FindMySchool ranking) and sitting comfortably in the top third of schools in England, SJH combines academic rigour with a palpable sense of community. It is a smaller than average secondary school, with around 650 students, allowing for a level of pastoral attention that larger institutions struggle to match. The school’s recent Ofsted inspection in April 2025 confirmed its status as a Good school, with inspectors noting that students are "proud to attend" and behave with "courtesy and respect".

The school occupies a 1960s site that has been well-maintained and adapted over the decades, though it retains the functional architectural style of its era. What it lacks in ancient stonework, it makes up for in atmosphere. At drop-off, there is a distinct sense of order; blazers are worn correctly, and greetings are polite. The site is compact, creating a village-like feel where students and staff know each other well.

Mr Steve Brogan, who has served as Headteacher since 2020, leads with a quiet authority that emphasises the school's dual mission: academic excellence and spiritual formation. Under his stewardship, the school has navigated the challenges of the post-pandemic landscape while maintaining high standards. The ethos is explicitly Catholic, grounded in Gospel values, yet inclusive of those from other faiths or none who respect the school's character.

The Chapel is the physical and spiritual heart of the school, not merely a ceremonial space but a functioning hub for the Chaplaincy team. The "Houghton Way" is not just a slogan but a lived code of conduct, emphasising respect, resilience, and responsibility. Students describe the atmosphere as safe and supportive, where the pressure to achieve is balanced by a genuine care for wellbeing.

Academically, Saint John Houghton is the high-water mark for Ilkeston. In 2024, the school achieved a Progress 8 score of +0.21, indicating that students make above-average progress from their primary school starting points compared to peers across England.

The school ranks 1st among secondary schools in Ilkeston and 1,526th in England, placing it in the top 33% of schools nationally (FindMySchool ranking). This performance reflects solid consistency; the school sits in the "national typical" band, but at the upper end of that spectrum.

In terms of raw attainment, the average Attainment 8 score was 47.8, edging out the England average of 45.9. While the percentage of students entering the English Baccalaureate (EBacc) is lower than the national average (22% vs 40%), those who do enter achieve well, with an EBacc average point score of 4.28.

It is worth noting the effectiveness of the core curriculum. The school's focus on literacy and numeracy ensures that the vast majority leave with the qualifications needed for their next steps, even if the EBacc entry rate suggests a curriculum tailored more to individual strengths than government targets.

The curriculum at SJH is ambitious and broad, designed to keep options open for as long as possible. Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9) remains a three-year programme, resisting the trend to shorten it, which allows for deeper exploration of subjects like History, Geography, and the Arts before GCSE choices are made.

Teaching is characterised by strong subject knowledge and clear routines. In the 2025 inspection, Ofsted highlighted that teachers have good subject knowledge and use assessment well to check what pupils know. Lessons follow a structured pattern, which helps maintain a calm and focused environment. There is a particular emphasis on reading; the "Canon of Literature" exposes students to classic texts during tutor time, fostering a culture of literacy that permeates the school.

Support for students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) is a priority. The learning support department works closely with teaching staff to ensure adaptations are made in the classroom, rather than relying solely on withdrawal intervention. This inclusive approach ensures that students with additional needs access the same ambitious curriculum as their peers.

As an 11-16 school, Saint John Houghton does not have a Sixth Form. This means Year 11 is a significant transition point. The school has a robust careers programme, starting in Year 7, which prepares students for this move.

Leavers typically progress to a range of local providers. A significant number move on to Bilborough College in Nottingham or the Saint Benedict Catholic Voluntary Academy Sixth Form in Derby to continue their Catholic education. Others choose Derby College for vocational courses or look to providers in Long Eaton.

The school's strong GCSE results ensure that the majority of students secure their first-choice destinations. The "Houghton graduate" is generally regarded by local colleges as well-prepared, polite, and ready for A-level study.

Admission to Saint John Houghton is competitive. As a Catholic academy, priority is given to baptised Catholic children, particularly those from the designated feeder parishes in Ilkeston, Stapleford, Long Eaton, and surrounding areas.

The school is consistently oversubscribed. In the most recent admissions cycle for Year 7, the school received 251 applications for just over 100 places, resulting in a ratio of approximately 2.5 applications per place. This level of demand reflects the school's reputation and its unique position as the only Catholic secondary provider in the immediate area.

Families applying under faith criteria must complete a Supplementary Information Form (SIF) in addition to the local authority application. While the school welcomes non-Catholic children, spaces are limited, and distance from the school gate becomes the deciding factor after faith criteria are satisfied.

Pastoral care is a cornerstone of the SJH experience. The school operates a House system, which fosters a sense of belonging and healthy competition. Form tutors are the first point of contact and stay with their groups as they move up the school, building strong relationships with families over five years.

The Chaplaincy team plays a vital role in student wellbeing, offering a listening ear distinct from the academic staff. They organise retreats and reflection days that give students space to step away from the pressures of the classroom. Safeguarding is robust; students report feeling safe and know who to talk to if they have concerns.

Behaviour is managed through a clear system of rewards and sanctions. The school is strict on uniform and punctuality, believing that these standards set the tone for learning. Ofsted noted that lessons are rarely disrupted by poor behaviour, a testament to the consistency of the pastoral systems.

Life at Saint John Houghton extends well beyond the academic timetable. The extracurricular offer is varied, with a strong emphasis on service and community.

Faith in Action

The Chaplaincy team leads a vibrant programme of charitable activities. Students are encouraged to look outwards, raising funds for CAFOD and local food banks. The "Faith in Action" award allows students to gain recognition for their service, reinforcing the school's values.

Sport and Arts

The PE department runs a full calendar of fixtures. Football, netball, and athletics are popular, with school teams competing successfully in local leagues. The sports hall and outdoor pitches are well-used, buzzing with activity until late afternoon.

In the arts, the annual school production is a highlight, involving students from all year groups in acting, set design, and technical support. Music tuition is available for a range of instruments, and the school choir performs regularly at school Masses and community events.

Duke of Edinburgh

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is well-established, with large cohorts undertaking Bronze and Silver awards. The expeditions, often in the nearby Peak District, provide students with challenges that build resilience and teamwork—qualities the school prizes highly.

The school day begins at 8:50am and concludes at 3:15pm. The site is located on Abbot Road in Kirk Hallam, easily accessible by bus from Ilkeston and surrounding villages.

Uniform is strictly enforced: a maroon blazer with the school crest, charcoal trousers or skirt, and the school tie. There is an expectation of smartness that extends to hair and jewellery.

As a state-funded academy, there are no tuition fees. Parents are expected to provide the uniform and PE kit, and contributions are requested for trips and residential visits, though the school utilises pupil premium funding to support eligible families.

Faith commitment expected. The Catholic character of the school is not an optional extra; it is the fabric of daily life. Assemblies, Masses, and Religious Education are compulsory. Families uncomfortable with explicit Christian teaching and worship may find the environment misaligned with their values.

No Sixth Form. Students must move institutions at 16. While this offers a chance for a fresh start and a more adult environment at college, it does mean another transition and the loss of familiar support networks during the crucial A-level years.

Oversubscription. Securing a place is not guaranteed, even for those living relatively close, if they do not meet the faith criteria. Families should be realistic about their chances and use the FindMySchoolMap Search to understand their position relative to the school’s admissions priorities.

Saint John Houghton Catholic Voluntary Academy offers a compelling package: top-tier local academic results, a safe and disciplined environment, and a genuine community ethos. It is a school that knows exactly what it is—a faith school with high standards—and makes no apologies for it. Best suited to families seeking a traditional, values-led education where character is deemed as important as grades. The main challenge is securing a place in this popular and oversubscribed school.