Question 1

Is St Stephen's Catholic Primary School a good school?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it is rated Outstanding by Ofsted (Nov 2021). 90% of pupils met expected standards in KS2 2025. The school ranks 19th in England for primary academic outcomes (top 1% nationally) and holds the World Class School Quality Mark from the London Mayor.

Question 2

What are the KS2 results at St Stephen's?

Accepted Answer

Exceptional across all measures. 90% reached expected standards in reading, writing and mathematics. At higher standard: 50% achieved greater depth. Scaled scores: Reading 112, Mathematics 113, GPS 114 (England reference: 100 each). Science 100% at expected standard.

Question 3

How competitive is entry to St Stephen's Catholic Primary?

Accepted Answer

Extremely competitive. Over 140 applications for 60 places (2.38:1). Distance from school gate is the deciding factor. Families typically need to live within 0.2-0.4 miles. Check current distance data with Bexley Local Authority before relying on a place.

Question 4

Is St Stephen's a genuinely Catholic school?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Daily prayer, regular Mass, explicit Catholic religious education and Catholic values are integrated throughout. The mission statement (Truth, Forgiveness, Justice) is actively lived. Families uncomfortable with Catholic practice should consider alternatives, though pupils of all faiths and none are welcome.

Question 5

What music and drama opportunities does the school offer?

Accepted Answer

The choir won first place at the 2023 Bexley Catholic Primary School Choral Festival and performs at major London venues. An orchestra also performs. All pupils learn recorder in Year 3; progression to other instruments available. Drama productions are ambitious, sometimes transferring to external stages with orchestral accompaniment.

Question 6

What sports and extra-curricular activities are available?

Accepted Answer

Trampolining, martial arts, cycling, netball, football, rugby, cross-country. A pupil Sports Council shapes provision. Competitive fixtures occur regularly. The school also offers Forest School residentials at Sayers Croft, an author in residence programme, and service learning through Mini Vinnies and St Stephen's Stewards.

Question 7

Where do pupils progress to after Year 6?

Accepted Answer

Most attend Bexley comprehensive secondaries (Highdown School is typical). Around 15 pupils annually secure selective grammar places at Reading School and Kendrick School. The school familiarises pupils with 11-plus formats but does not adopt intensive test-preparation mode; families pursuing grammar entry typically arrange external tutoring.

Question 8

What is wraparound care provision like at St Stephen's?

Accepted Answer

Breakfast club operates from 7:45am. After-school care extends to 6pm via Witty Kids (external Ofsted-registered provider). Holiday clubs run during main school breaks. This facilitates working parents and extends learning opportunities.

Ofsted Inspection

Inspection History

Inspection Categories