St Michael’s Church of England Middle School in Colehill has been recognized as a good school following its recent inspection. The headteacher, Darren Ayling, leads the school, which is part of the Initio Learning Trust. The trust is overseen by CEO Elizabeth West and a board of trustees chaired by John Kingston. The school emphasizes its core values of Aspiration, Belief, and Creativity, which are integral to the educational experience it provides. Pupils demonstrate a strong engagement with their learning and take on leadership roles, such as being members of the student council and sports leaders, motivated by a desire to improve their school community.
The school maintains high expectations for behavior, resulting in a positive atmosphere where pupils feel safe and respected. When behavioral issues arise, school leaders address them promptly, ensuring that pupils understand the implications of their actions. Reading is prioritized, with pupils encouraged to explore a variety of texts, fostering a love for literature. Support is readily available for those who struggle with reading, enabling all pupils to develop their skills and confidence.
St Michael’s is committed to ambitious educational goals, aiming for all pupils to achieve well and acquire transferable skills. The curriculum is clearly structured, outlining what pupils will learn in each subject and how knowledge builds over time. This approach includes teaching the unique aspects of each subject, such as the principles of art. Assessment practices are effectively utilized to monitor pupils’ understanding, allowing for timely adjustments to the curriculum to address any gaps in knowledge.
The school effectively identifies and supports pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they have access to the same curriculum as their peers. The involvement of pupils and parents in planning support is a notable strength, particularly in preparing for transitions to Year 9. The school also nurtures pupils’ talents through a variety of extracurricular activities, including music and drama, which are well-attended and foster a sense of community.
The personal development curriculum equips pupils with essential life skills, including health education and an understanding of British values. The school promotes inclusivity and celebrates diversity, with bullying being rare. Pupils feel empowered to report any concerns, knowing they will be taken seriously. Career education is integrated into the curriculum, providing pupils with insights into future opportunities, including apprenticeships and further education.
The staff at St Michael’s are well-supported in their roles, fostering a collaborative environment focused on the best outcomes for pupils. The school’s safeguarding measures are effective, ensuring a safe learning environment for all students. However, the inspection identified areas for improvement, particularly in the implementation of the curriculum across all subjects. The trust is encouraged to ensure consistency in curriculum delivery so that all pupils can achieve their full potential.
Overall, St Michael’s Church of England Middle School continues to provide a strong educational experience, characterized by high expectations, a supportive environment, and a commitment to the personal and academic development of its pupils. The school is well-prepared for future challenges and remains dedicated to enhancing the quality of education it offers.
