St Nicholas celebrates success and looks ahead with ambition

The school is proud of the achievements of students across all year groups. Whether excelling academically, performing on stage, representing the school in sport, developing leadership skills or serving their community, students are encouraged to discover their strengths and make the most of every opportunity.

Academic excellence remains at the heart of St Nicholas. The school is ambitious for every student, with a strong focus on securing the best possible outcomes and preparing young people successfully for their next stage, whether university, apprenticeships, further education, employment or other destinations.

(Image: St Nicholas Catholic High School)

But what makes St Nicholas distinctive is the combination of high expectations with exceptional care and support.

In a rapidly changing world, young people face pressures that previous generations could scarcely have imagined. Social media, artificial intelligence, increasing academic demands and concerns around mental health can all affect wellbeing.  Headteacher, Craig Burns, says:  "St Nicholas places great importance on ensuring students have the support, guidance and access to trusted adults they need in order to navigate these challenges."

This includes the school’s Breathe and Believe provision, dedicated spaces for reflection and support, and the Oasis Mental Health Centre, a student-led initiative promoting positive mental health. Staff and students have also undertaken Mental Health First Aid training, helping to build a culture where looking after one another is everyone’s responsibility.

Alongside academic study, students benefit from a rich programme of opportunities including sport, music, drama, performing arts, debating, leadership, faith, enrichment and community service. These experiences develop teamwork, confidence, creativity and leadership, helping young people build skills that will support them throughout their lives.

The school’s Catholic ethos provides an important sense of purpose. St Nicholas welcomes children of all faiths and none, and encourages every student to recognise their own worth, whilst considering how they can make a positive difference to others.

(Image: St Nicholas Catholic High School)

St Nicholas welcomes students from more than 40 primary schools across Cheshire and beyond, creating a vibrant and diverse community. Particular emphasis is placed on ensuring that students make a confident transition from primary to secondary school, develop friendships and quickly feel that they belong.

The success of St Nicholas has also attracted recognition beyond the school. Headteacher Craig Burns, a National Leader of Education since 2024, has recently been awarded Fellowship of the Chartered College of Teaching, recognising his contribution to education. The school is proud to lead on leadership training, coaching and an Outstanding Teacher and Teacher Assistant Programme to ensure students have the very best staff teaching and supporting them.

“I am incredibly proud of this recognition, but it is ultimately a reflection of our remarkable students, dedicated staff, supportive families and committed governors,” says Headteacher Craig Burns.

St Nicholas is a school where young people are encouraged to achieve, supported when they need it and challenged to become the very best version of themselves.

Families considering secondary school are invited to experience the school for themselves at Open Evening where they can meet students and staff, explore the school and discover what makes St Nicholas such a special place to learn, grow and flourish.

St Nicholas Open Evening

Thursday, September 24, 4pm–6pm

St Nicholas Catholic High School, Greenbank Lane, Hartford, Cheshire CW8 1JW

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