St Pauls Church of England Academy, located in Tipton, West Midlands, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 14 and 15, 2023. The school is characterized by a vibrant and engaging environment where pupils express that attending is great fun. They particularly enjoy subjects like art and design, alongside a variety of extracurricular activities such as the school choir and popcorn reading sessions. The leadership team demonstrates a strong commitment to ensuring that all pupils achieve their best, particularly in writing and mathematics. The curriculum is designed to promote science effectively, exemplified by educational trips like the one to the Black Country Living Museum.
Pupils embody the school’s values of love, hope, faith, and forgiveness, fostering a supportive community where older students mentor younger ones. This mentorship includes roles such as reading ambassadors and sports leaders, which help cultivate a sense of responsibility and community spirit. The school community actively engages in charitable efforts, such as fundraising for victims of the Turkey earthquake, showcasing a commitment to helping others. Behavior in lessons and around the school is commendable, with pupils demonstrating respect and kindness.
The school prioritizes the safety and well-being of its pupils, educating them on important topics such as online safety and the risks associated with social media. There is a clear support system in place, with adults readily available to address any concerns, and incidents of bullying are managed effectively. The leadership team is focused on continuous improvement, particularly in enhancing the curriculum across a broad range of subjects beyond just English and mathematics. They ensure that the curriculum is ambitious and accessible for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and those who speak English as an additional language.
Reading is a key focus, with a consistent phonics scheme implemented across early years and into Years 1 and 2. This approach has proven effective, as pupils are matched with books that align with their phonetic knowledge, fostering confidence in their reading abilities. The school encourages a love for reading through various initiatives, including lunchtime book boxes and trips to local libraries.
Pupils engage in practical learning experiences, such as identifying animal body parts and enhancing their artistic skills through sophisticated techniques. Leadership within subjects is developing well, with a mix of experienced and newer leaders who are dedicated to monitoring and improving teaching and assessment practices. The school environment is calm and conducive to learning, with minimal disruption during lessons. Attendance rates are improving and are favorable compared to national averages.
The school promotes fundamental British values alongside its own values, although there is a recognition that some pupils, particularly older ones, may need a deeper understanding of these concepts. Opportunities for trips and activities broaden pupils' horizons, exposing them to various experiences and role models. The leadership team is committed to reducing staff workload, which has been positively received by staff members. Governors possess a clear understanding of the school’s strengths and areas for improvement, and the school benefits from support and guidance from the local authority.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance among staff. They promptly report concerns, ensuring that pupils at risk receive the necessary support. Overall, while the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for further development, particularly in establishing secure assessment methods across all subjects and enhancing pupils' understanding of British values.
