The University of Birmingham School
Weoley Park Road, Selly Oak, Birmingham, B29 6QU
Weoley Park Road, Selly Oak, Birmingham, B29 6QU
Pupils
1170
Ages
11 - 19
Gender
Co-educational
Type
Free School – Mainstream
Head Teacher
Mr Colin Townsend
The University of Birmingham School, with a current student roll of 1170, caters to students aged 11-19. The academic performance is impressive, with 29% of students scoring highly in key stage 2 and 53% meeting standard requirements. The school also provides support for students with Special Educational Needs, with 5% having SEN statements and EHC plans.
In terms of pastoral care, the school ensures the wellbeing of all students, offering a supportive environment for their personal development. Additionally, the school offers a wide range of extra-curricular activities, allowing students to explore their interests outside of the classroom.
With 60% boys and 40% girls, the school has a diverse student body. 28% of students follow English as an additional language, highlighting the school’s commitment to inclusivity. The atmosphere at the school is welcoming and inclusive, fostering a sense of community among students and staff.
For those interested in learning more about The University of Birmingham School, upcoming open days provide an opportunity to experience the school first-hand. In conclusion, The University of Birmingham School excels in academic performance, pastoral care, and providing a well-rounded education for all students.
Students Reaching
Expected Standards
68%
National Average: 65%
Students Reaching
High Standards
56%
National Average: 11%
The University of Birmingham School, located in Selly Oak, Birmingham, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 16 and 17, 2023. The school provides a vibrant and diverse environment where pupils feel valued and safe. This positive atmosphere is particularly beneficial for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The leadership team has high aspirations for every pupil, ensuring that they receive an education that prepares them well for future success. The school places equal importance on character development and academic achievement, fostering a well-rounded educational experience.
Pupils exhibit commendable behavior throughout the school, demonstrating positive attitudes and courtesy. Those who struggle with behavior receive appropriate support to help them learn from their mistakes. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they do occur, they are addressed swiftly and effectively. The curriculum is broad and ambitious, covering all key stages, and in the sixth form, students have access to a wide range of A-level subjects, with most progressing to university.
The school excels in supporting pupils' wider development through a variety of extracurricular activities. For instance, all Year 9 pupils participate in the bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, which enhances their personal growth and skills. The curriculum is well-structured, allowing pupils to build a strong foundation of knowledge and skills that prepare them for GCSE and A-level courses. The planning and sequencing of the curriculum are commendable, ensuring that learning builds on prior knowledge and leads to clear outcomes.
The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs, providing tailored assistance and training for staff to meet diverse learning needs. Teachers are generally effective in modeling new concepts and checking for understanding, although there are occasional lapses in this practice that can lead to misconceptions. Leaders encourage regular reading among pupils, offering a range of activities to promote a love of literature. The school boasts a well-resourced library that provides access to a diverse selection of books, and targeted support is available for those at early stages of reading.
Pupils engage positively in lessons, contributing to their overall achievement. The school emphasizes virtues that promote personal development, teaching pupils about healthy relationships and online safety. Additional activities in the arts and sports further enrich the educational experience, with opportunities for pupils to learn musical instruments and participate in trips, including a recent visit to Boston, USA.
Careers advice and guidance are robust, with pupils receiving opportunities to visit universities and gain work experience. Staff feel valued and supported by the leadership team, appreciating the professional development opportunities provided. The governing body is knowledgeable and maintains a professional relationship with school leaders, ensuring that statutory duties are met.
While most parents express satisfaction with the school's provision, some feel that communication could be improved. Safeguarding measures are effective, with robust processes in place to ensure pupil safety. Leaders are proactive in educating pupils about potential risks outside of school and provide resources for parents to support their children in staying safe online. Overall, the University of Birmingham School continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing a high-quality education and a supportive environment for all its pupils.
Last Updated: 9 December 2024
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