Our Lady and St Kenelm RC School, located in Halesowen, West Midlands, was inspected on November 2 and 3, 2021. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with specific areas such as behaviour and attitudes, and personal development receiving outstanding ratings. The quality of education and early years provision were also rated as good, while leadership and management were deemed good as well. The school had previously been rated outstanding during its last inspection six years prior, reflecting a longer than usual gap between inspections due to legal exemptions.
Pupils at the school express pride in their institution, highlighting a sense of belonging and community. They are described as polite, kind, and respectful, actively contributing to a safe and welcoming environment. Various roles within the school, such as Lunch Bunch and Play Leaders, allow students to support one another and maintain high standards of behaviour. Instances of bullying are rare, and staff are vigilant in addressing any concerns.
The school leadership maintains high expectations for all pupils, encapsulated in their mission statement of bringing out the best in everyone. The curriculum is designed to be engaging and ambitious, fostering a love for learning among students. Opportunities for extending learning beyond the classroom are abundant, with activities such as forest school, trips, and theatre productions. Pupils particularly enjoyed using virtual reality technology to explore ancient civilisations, and they benefit from a variety of clubs that nurture their interests and talents.
The school has established a rich curriculum that supports both academic and personal development. Early years pupils demonstrate strong engagement and responsiveness to staff, with a clear focus on language and vocabulary development. In Reception, children are settling into routines and showing positive attitudes towards learning. However, there are areas within the early years curriculum that require further clarity regarding specific knowledge to be learned.
Reading is prioritized within the school, with a consistent approach to teaching phonics starting in early years and Year 1. Staff are well-trained, and assessments are used effectively to support pupils in their reading journey. The mathematics curriculum is logically sequenced, allowing most pupils to grasp and apply their learning effectively, although some may still need additional support.
The school is committed to inclusivity, ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are fully integrated into lessons and school life. Leaders work closely with external agencies to provide timely support for pupils as needed. The school excels in developing responsible and respectful pupils, with many taking on roles that benefit both their school and wider community.
While many parents express positive views about the school, some feel that their concerns are not always adequately addressed by leadership. The school is encouraged to enhance communication channels with parents to ensure their feedback is valued. Safeguarding measures are effective, with staff receiving regular training to identify and respond to concerns promptly. Overall, the school demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a safe and nurturing environment for all pupils, preparing them well for their future educational journeys.
