St Michael’s Church of England Aided Primary School in Tettenhall, Wolverhampton, has been recognized for its outstanding overall effectiveness in education. The recent inspection, conducted on October 8 and 9, 2024, confirmed that the school has successfully maintained the high standards established during its previous inspection in December 2017. The school is well-led and governed, providing a high-quality education that meets the diverse needs of its pupils. The school fosters an environment where all students, regardless of their backgrounds or abilities, are encouraged to achieve their best academically and behaviorally.
The curriculum at St Michael’s is broad and engaging, offering numerous opportunities for students to learn both inside and outside the classroom. Pupils are actively involved in school life, which helps them develop confidence and achieve commendable academic results. The school’s commitment to inclusion is evident, particularly in its special educational needs unit, known as the Ark, where students with special educational needs and disabilities receive tailored support that enhances their learning experiences.
Behavior management within the school is exemplary, with staff maintaining consistent expectations and routines. This approach, combined with positive reinforcement, creates a supportive atmosphere conducive to learning. Pupils are educated on recognizing and addressing bullying, ensuring a safe environment for all. The school’s rules are straightforward and well understood, contributing to a respectful and happy school community. High attendance rates reflect the positive school culture.
St Michael’s excels in its approach to early reading, employing a systematic phonics scheme that is consistently implemented. Staff are committed to ongoing professional development, ensuring they are equipped with the latest resources and strategies to support pupils in their reading journey. The emphasis on reading aloud fosters a love for literature and enhances pupils’ access to the wider curriculum. Mathematics instruction is equally structured, providing a solid foundation for early learners and building on their skills as they progress through the school.
The curriculum is well-organized across all subjects, with subject leaders receiving specialized training to enhance their effectiveness. This evaluative approach promotes a collaborative spirit among staff, driving continuous improvement within the school. Beyond academics, the school offers a variety of extracurricular activities that enrich pupils’ personal development, including sports, music, and arts. These opportunities encourage students to explore new interests and develop leadership skills.
The school’s values are integrated into its personal, social, health, and economic education program, teaching pupils the importance of empathy and ethical decision-making. The support for students with special educational needs is a notable strength, with staff collaborating with external services to ensure that individual needs are met effectively. Recent enhancements to the SEN provision have already shown positive outcomes, and leaders are focused on sustaining these improvements.
Communication with parents is a key strength of the school, with regular updates and opportunities for parental involvement in the educational process. Parents express high satisfaction with the leadership and quality of education provided. The school community, including staff, reflects a positive workplace culture, contributing to the overall success of the institution.
The safeguarding arrangements at St Michael’s are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and their welfare prioritized. The school is committed to continuous improvement, with plans to further enhance its SEN provision and maintain its high standards of education. Overall, St Michael’s Church of England Aided Primary School stands out as an exemplary institution dedicated to fostering a nurturing and high-achieving educational environment for all its pupils.
