St Michael's Church of England Academy in Bedworth, Warwickshire, has been inspected and continues to be rated as a good school. The inspection, conducted on 16 and 17 April 2024, revealed that while the overall judgment remains unchanged, evidence suggests that the school could achieve an outstanding rating if a graded inspection were to take place. The headteacher, Chris Errington, leads the school, which is part of The Diocese of Coventry Multi-Academy Trust, overseen by CEO Michael Cowland and a board of trustees chaired by Barry Cockroft.
The school is characterized by a happy and inclusive environment, deeply embedded in its community. Pupils take pride in their school, and parents express high levels of satisfaction. The school fosters high expectations, with pupils actively engaged in their learning and supportive of one another. Older students assist younger peers in reading through initiatives like the lunchtime phonics club, demonstrating a commitment to nurturing a collaborative atmosphere. The school recognizes and rewards positive behavior through initiatives such as the 'footprints in the sand' awards.
Pupils feel safe and supported, knowing that staff are attentive to their concerns. The inclusion team is particularly valued for its support. The school council plays an active role in school life, with pupils' suggestions leading to improvements such as outdoor climbing equipment. The curriculum is enriched with diverse opportunities, including visits to local sports teams and first aid training, preparing pupils for life beyond school.
Leadership at St Michael's is marked by passion and humility, with a shared commitment to enhancing the educational experience for every pupil. High expectations are established from the outset, beginning in Nursery, where carefully selected activities lay the groundwork for future learning. This approach is consistent through to Year 6, with a clear focus on the knowledge and skills pupils are expected to acquire. The curriculum is sequenced effectively, allowing pupils to build on prior learning, as seen in the progression from recognizing simple shapes in Nursery to discussing properties of shapes in Year 6.
Subject specialists teach many areas of the curriculum, supported by effective staff training, which enhances teachers' expertise and deepens pupils' understanding. The school is recognized as a 'reading school,' with a strong phonics program and a wealth of high-quality reading materials that engage pupils and foster a love of reading. Regular assessments ensure that those at risk of falling behind receive timely support.
Positive relationships are a hallmark of the school, with a strong commitment to inclusion ensuring that all pupils are supported and valued. The school actively engages with families, building relationships from the moment children join. Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive exceptional support, with early identification of barriers and effective use of external services promoting independence and success.
The school maintains high standards of behavior, with established routines and expectations that prepare pupils for learning. Attendance has improved significantly, reflecting the school's diligent efforts. A wide range of extracurricular activities and events fosters a sense of community and belonging, with opportunities for personal development and lasting memories.
Staff feel valued and supported, with a strong sense of teamwork and opportunities for professional development. The school prioritizes the well-being of its staff, contributing to a positive working environment. Overall, St Michael's Church of England Academy exemplifies a commitment to excellence in education, ensuring that every pupil is given the opportunity to thrive.
