The Shirestone Academy, located in Tile Cross, Birmingham, has received an outstanding rating in its recent inspection conducted on December 6 and 7, 2023. The school, which caters to pupils aged 3 to 11, is part of The Elliot Foundation Academies Trust and is led by Principal Nadeem Bashir. The inspection highlighted the school's exceptional quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision, all rated as outstanding.
Pupils, parents, and staff describe the school as a close-knit community where everyone feels valued and supported. Parents express satisfaction with the care their children receive, and pupils report feeling happy and safe, demonstrating a strong enthusiasm for learning. The school fosters a vibrant learning environment where pupils are encouraged to work hard and achieve well across various subjects. The curriculum is designed to be ambitious and engaging, ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, receive the support they need to thrive.
The school emphasizes the importance of resilience in learning, teaching pupils to embrace challenges and view mistakes as opportunities for growth. This approach has cultivated exemplary attitudes towards learning among the students. Staff members are well-supported by school leaders, who provide training and resources to help teachers deliver the curriculum effectively. As a result, pupils excel in core subjects, particularly in mathematics and English.
In the early years, children quickly adapt to school routines and expectations, benefiting from staff expertise in developing their social and emotional skills. Communication and language development are prioritized, with adults actively engaging with children to foster their learning. The phonics program is particularly effective, enabling pupils to become confident readers who enjoy literature and connect their reading experiences to other subjects.
Pupils are encouraged to become active citizens, participating in various school activities and community initiatives. They learn the importance of respect and understanding diversity, which contributes to a positive school culture. The school actively engages parents, fostering strong relationships that enhance the educational experience for children. Events such as family craft sessions are well-attended, reflecting the collaborative spirit between the school and families.
The Elliot Foundation Academies Trust plays a crucial role in supporting the school’s continuous improvement. The trust, along with the school’s leadership, maintains a clear vision and ethos, ensuring that the school remains focused on providing high-quality education. Regular evaluations of the school’s performance help identify areas for growth and development.
Safeguarding measures at Shirestone Academy are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and their well-being is prioritized. The school has created a positive culture around safeguarding, where pupils feel safe and supported.
Overall, Shirestone Academy stands out as an exemplary institution that prioritizes the holistic development of its pupils. The commitment to high standards in education, behavior, and personal growth is evident in the positive experiences shared by the school community. The recent inspection confirms the school's status as a leading educational establishment, dedicated to nurturing confident, resilient learners who are well-prepared for their future endeavors.
