Why St Michael's Catholic High School is among Watford's best

St Michael's Catholic High School in High Elms Lane, Garston, is one of the town's best and has this week confirmed the appointment of a new headteacher.

In light of this news, the Watford Observer is shining a spotlight on the school to explore its success.

Current headteacher Edward Conway with pupils (Image: St Michael's Catholic High School)

Glowing Ofsted report

Headteacher Edward Conway with St Michael's pupils. (Image: St Michael's)

Four areas were found to be "outstanding" when the education watchdog last visited St Michael's in March 2025.

It was given the highest possible rating for behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth form provision.

“The school has undergone many positive changes from improvements to the fabric of the building to the curriculum and how it is taught,” the report said.

“These have been led and managed well and have gained the confidence of parents, staff and pupils."

Excellent exam results

Katy Tang (Image: St Michael's Catholic High School)

The school "thrives" when it comes to exam results, with 2025's GCSE's, with 74 per cent achieving at least five standard passes including maths and English.

One pupil even scored an incredible result of straight 9s.

Katy Tang received perfect scores in RE, history, French, food tech, further maths, combined science, English language, English literature, and maths.

She said: “I literally can’t believe it. I’ve not stopped crying since I opened my results. I don’t know what to say, it’s so surreal.

“It’s the kind of thing you dream about but don’t expect to happen.”

• Secondary school 'delighted' with near-perfect Ofsted report
• New headteacher set to take over Watford secondary school

New headteacher set to take over

Ian Petrie (Image: St Michael's Catholic High School)

Current deputy headteacher Ian Petrie will step up into the top job from September.

He said: “After over two decades at St Michael’s, it is a real privilege to be asked to lead the school into the future.

"This is a community I care deeply about, with dedicated staff, supportive families and inspiring young people. I am proud of what we have achieved together so far and excited to build on that success in the years ahead.”