Small Heath Leadership Academy, located in Birmingham, has been evaluated as a good school following its inspection on May 11 and 12, 2022. The school has established a positive environment where pupils appreciate the education they receive. They express that staff are dedicated to providing support whenever needed. The school's values, encapsulated in the acronym STAR, which stands for service, teamwork, ambition, and respect, foster a community that celebrates diversity. Pupils report that instances of bullying are infrequent and that teachers effectively address any issues that arise.
The school offers numerous leadership opportunities for pupils, who are encouraged to support one another. For instance, new students learning English as an additional language benefit from mentorship by peers, facilitating their integration into the school community. The leadership team has high expectations for pupils, who are motivated to meet these standards. The school actively collaborates with the wider community to expose pupils to opportunities beyond the classroom, including partnerships with prestigious universities and career exploration through employer visits.
Leaders at Small Heath Leadership Academy are ambitious and have carefully crafted a well-structured curriculum in most subjects. This curriculum clearly identifies essential knowledge, allowing teachers to plan effectively. For example, in music, pupils build on their understanding of tempo and rhythm to create their own compositions by the end of Year 8. However, there are inconsistencies in how teachers utilize assessments to inform their instruction, leading to gaps in some pupils' knowledge. While leaders have implemented routines to help pupils recall prior learning, opportunities for pupils to extend and apply their knowledge in lessons are not consistently provided, which can hinder long-term retention of information.
The school places a strong emphasis on reading, encouraging pupils to engage with a wide range of texts. A reading program is in place, and early readers receive prompt support to develop their skills. Leaders are also introducing a new phonics scheme to further enhance reading progress. Classroom behavior is managed effectively through clear routines, and pupils understand the expectations set by leaders. The school provides additional support for those who require it, and pupils appreciate the recognition they receive for positive behavior.
The personal development curriculum is extensive, preparing pupils for life in modern Britain. Leaders focus on instilling responsible and respectful behaviors through the curriculum and initiatives like the Star Diploma. Some pupils have expressed a desire for more extracurricular activities to broaden their experiences. The school has a robust careers program in place, and pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are identified and supported appropriately, although some support plans could be improved for better effectiveness.
Leaders are passionate about the school and strive to ensure that all pupils achieve ambitious outcomes. This vision is shared by the governing body, which takes pride in its association with the school. However, there is still work to be done to ensure that the curriculum fully reflects the leaders' ambitions. The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with experienced leaders who understand the risks faced by pupils. Staff receive comprehensive training to recognize and report concerns, ensuring that pupils receive the necessary support to stay safe.
In summary, Small Heath Leadership Academy demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and ambitious educational environment. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in the consistency of teaching practices and the depth of curriculum engagement, the school is well-positioned to continue fostering the growth and development of its pupils.
