Broughton Hall Catholic High School Review 2026: Faith and Community in West Derby

Situated in the historic suburb of West Derby, Broughton Hall Catholic High School has educated girls in the Mercy tradition for nearly a century. The school serves as a focal point for the local Catholic community, combining a distinct religious character with extensive grounds. Following a period of rebuilding, the school secured a Good rating from Ofsted in November 2022, validating the leadership's work to raise standards and improve culture.

Cor Unum et Anima Una (One Heart and One Mind), the school motto, captures the sense of shared identity here. The ethos is deeply rooted in the charism of the Sisters of Mercy, emphasising compassion and service alongside academic work. The environment is supportive; inspectors in 2022 noted that pupils feel safe and happy, with positive relationships underpinning the school day.

Mrs Sarah O'Rourke took up the post of Head Teacher in January 2025, bringing fresh leadership to the school following the tenure of Mr Gerard Preston. The school has focused on establishing clear routines and raising expectations, moving from previous difficulties to a stable, ambitious position.

The campus blends older buildings with modern additions, set within generous grounds that feel removed from the city bustle. The Chapel remains the spiritual heart of the site, used regularly for Mass and reflection.

Academic outcomes reflect a school with a broad, comprehensive intake, sitting in line with the middle 35% of schools in England (25th to 60th percentile). In 2024, the school ranked 2,591st in England and 20th in Liverpool for GCSE outcomes (FindMySchool ranking).

The average Attainment 8 score of 41.4 is slightly below the England average of 45.9. The Progress 8 score of -0.58 indicates that, on average, students make less progress from their primary school starting points than their peers nationally. However, 14.4% of pupils achieved grade 5 or above in the English Baccalaureate, showing that higher-ability students can secure strong passes in core academic subjects.

The curriculum is ambitious and broad. Ofsted highlighted that leaders have thought carefully about what pupils learn and the order in which they learn it. Reading is a particular priority; the school has implemented a rigorous programme to support students who arrive with reading ages below their chronological age.

Teachers generally present subject matter clearly, though consistency in checking understanding remains a focus area. The atmosphere in lessons is typically calm and conducive to learning.

Post-16 pathways are diverse. In 2024, 45% of leavers progressed to university, while a notable 17% secured apprenticeships—a figure well above the national norm, reflecting strong vocational guidance. 22% entered employment directly.

For those staying on for Sixth Form, the school offers a range of A-levels and BTECs. Ranked 2,104th in England and 31st in Liverpool for A-level outcomes (FindMySchool ranking), the Sixth Form provides a supportive environment for students who prefer continuity. The A*-B pass rate was 33% in 2024.

Admission is competitive, driven by the school's popularity within the Catholic community. In 2024, there were 442 applications for 206 places, a subscription ratio of 2.15 applications per place.

As a voluntary aided Catholic school, the governing body is the admissions authority. Priority is strictly given to baptised Catholic girls, followed by looked-after children and siblings. Families applying under faith criteria must complete a Supplementary Information Form (SIF) in addition to the local authority application. Living in West Derby or nearby does not guarantee a place without meeting the faith criteria first.

Pastoral support is a strength, anchored in the Mercy values. The school operates a Year Progress Leader system, ensuring students have a consistent point of contact. The "Lodge" provides a dedicated space for vulnerable students or those needing emotional support, offering a sanctuary within the busy school environment.

Safeguarding is effective, with staff trained to identify concerns early. The school invests in mental health support, working with external agencies to help students manage anxiety and other pressures.

The extracurricular programme is varied, with strong pillars in music and sport. The Music Department is active, with choirs and ensembles performing at the Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral and school liturgies.

Sporting facilities include extensive playing fields, a sports hall, and dance studio. Netball, football, and athletics are popular, with school teams competing locally. The Duke of Edinburgh Award is offered, encouraging resilience and independence.

The school day runs from 8:40am to 3:10pm. Located on Yew Tree Lane, the school is well-served by public transport, with several bus routes connecting West Derby to the wider Liverpool area. The site is adjacent to Alder Hey Hospital, making it a busy area during peak times.

Faith commitment. The Catholic ethos is central, not incidental. Assemblies, masses, and religious education are compulsory. Families should be comfortable with this pervasive spiritual character.

Academic progress. With a negative Progress 8 score, the published figures suggest that some students do not achieve the grades predicted by their primary scores. Families of high-ability girls should inquire about the specific stretch and challenge provided in Key Stage 4.

Strict admissions. With over two applicants for every seat, the school is oversubscribed. Baptism evidence is essential for those applying under faith criteria; proximity alone is rarely sufficient for non-Catholic applicants.

Broughton Hall is a school on the rise, offering a nurturing, faith-filled environment where girls feel safe and valued. While raw academic metrics indicate room for improvement in progress, the Good rating confirms the quality of education and leadership. Best suited to families seeking a traditional Catholic education with strong pastoral care and a clear moral framework. Entry remains the primary hurdle.