St Augustine's Catholic College Review 2026: A Faith-Driven Renaissance

Situated in Trowbridge, St Augustine's Catholic College serves as the only Catholic secondary school in West Wiltshire, drawing students from a wide catchment that extends well beyond the town boundaries. Following a period of rebuilding under new leadership, the school secured a Good rating from Ofsted in June 2024, marking a significant turnaround from previous challenges.

The campus on Wingfield Road has a distinct feel, shaped less by its architecture—a mix of mid-century blocks and modern additions—and more by its palpable sense of community. This is a school where the Catholic ethos is the operating system, not just a badge. The motto Act Justly, Love Tenderly, Walk Humbly is visible in the daily interactions between staff and students.

Mr Aidan Dowle has been Headteacher since 2022. His tenure has been defined by a drive to raise standards and restore confidence, a mission validated by the recent inspection success. Parents describe a school that has rediscovered its stride, balancing its traditional values with a renewed focus on academic consistency.

The atmosphere is purposeful but supportive. Students travel from Melksham, Westbury, Warminster, and beyond, creating a student body that is socially diverse but united by a shared supportive culture. For Catholic families, it offers continuity of faith; for others, it offers a structured environment built on clear moral coordinates.

Academic outcomes at St Augustine's are consistently strong, frequently outperforming local and England averages.

In 2024, the school achieved a Progress 8 score of +0.32, indicating that students make above-average progress from their starting points. Attainment is equally impressive; the average Attainment 8 score of 50.6 sits comfortably above the England average of 45.9.

Ranked 1724th in England and 2nd in Trowbridge for GCSE outcomes (FindMySchool ranking), the college remains a high-performing choice locally. The English Baccalaureate (EBacc) average point score of 4.46 exceeds the England average of 4.08, reflecting a curriculum that retains breadth in core academic subjects like languages and humanities.

The Sixth Form is a particular strength. Ranked 1087th in England and 1st in Trowbridge for A-level outcomes, it serves as an academic beacon for the area. In 2024, half of all grades awarded were A*-B (50%), with nearly a quarter (24.4%) at A*-A.

The 2024 Ofsted report praised the curriculum as ambitious and well-planned. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge, and there is a clear focus on ensuring students grasp key concepts before moving on—a shift from the inconsistencies noted in previous years.

The "Words, Wisdom and Worship" programme is a notable feature, blending literacy with Catholic Social Teaching to broaden students' cultural capital. In the Sixth Form, the relationship between staff and students shifts to a more collaborative academic partnership, which students cite as a key factor in their success.

Support for students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) is effective. The SENCO leads a team of teaching assistants who are well-deployed to support learning without creating dependency, ensuring all students can access the full curriculum.

Retention into the Sixth Form is high, with the majority of Year 11 students choosing to stay. The Sixth Form's academic reputation draws external applicants, though the internal culture remains strong.

University progression is the norm. In 2024, 48% of leavers progressed to higher education. The college has a solid track record with competitive admissions; one student secured an Oxbridge place in the most recent cycle.

The careers programme ensures vocational routes are not overlooked. 28% of the 2024 cohort moved directly into employment, while others pursued apprenticeships (1%) or further education (4%).

St Augustine's is a voluntary aided Catholic school. While admissions are coordinated by Wiltshire Council, the governing body sets the criteria. The school is consistently oversubscribed, with 262 applications for 151 places in the last cycle (a subscription rate of 1.74).

Priority is strictly defined. Baptised Catholic children have the highest priority, followed by other Christian denominations and faiths who are supportive of the school's ethos. Applicants seeking a faith-based priority must complete a Supplementary Information Form (SIF) alongside the standard local authority application.

For September 2026 entry, the deadline for Year 7 applications is 31 October 2025. The Sixth Form has its own timeline, with applications typically closing in late February (27 February 2026 for the 2026 intake).

Pastoral care is structured around the concept of cura personalis (care for the whole person). The chaplaincy team is central to this, offering a non-judgmental space for students of all faiths and none.

Behaviour has improved significantly. The latest inspection found students to be polite and respectful, with a calm atmosphere in lessons and social times. The house system fosters healthy competition and a sense of belonging, while the PSHE curriculum tackles modern issues—from mental health to healthy relationships—through a values-based lens.

The extracurricular offer is robust. The Duke of Edinburgh's Award is a major pillar, with high participation rates at Bronze and Silver levels. Expeditions on Salisbury Plain are a rite of passage for many.

Music and drama benefit from the school's liturgical tradition but extend well beyond it. The annual school production involves over a hundred students, and the choir performs regularly in the community. Sport includes competitive fixtures in football, rugby, and netball, alongside the gruelling Ten Tors challenge for the adventurous.

The school day runs from 8:50am to 3:20pm. Transport is a key consideration for many families. dedicated school buses serve towns including Melksham, Westbury, and Warminster. Parents should verify routes and availability early, as these are vital for the wide catchment.

Faith is Central. This is a Catholic school in daily practice, not just name. Prayer and Mass are integral parts of the week. Families uncomfortable with explicit religious teaching should consider if this environment is the right fit.

Competitive Entry. With nearly two applicants for every place, securing a spot is difficult, particularly for those without a faith claim living further away. The Supplementary Information Form is essential for faith applicants.

Transport Reliance. For families outside Trowbridge, the school day is extended by travel time. Reliance on school buses adds a layer of logistics and cost that local alternatives may not require.

Strict Standards. The school prides itself on high expectations for uniform and conduct. Families seeking a more relaxed or liberal approach to discipline may find the structure restrictive.

St Augustine's Catholic College has successfully navigated its period of transition to re-establish itself as a high-performing, values-led school. With a Good rating restored and A-level results topping local tables, it offers a compelling blend of academic rigour and pastoral warmth. Best suited to families who value a structured, faith-based education and are prepared to support the school's high expectations. The main challenge is securing a place in this popular regional hub.