Holy Trinity Catholic School, located in Small Heath, Birmingham, underwent an inspection on September 26 and 27, 2023, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school is part of the St Teresa of Calcutta Multi-Academy Company and is led by headteacher Colin Crehan. The inspection highlighted the school's commitment to providing an inclusive and holistic education, with pupils expressing appreciation for the opportunities available to them. The school fosters a caring and respectful environment, where high expectations for behavior are met by pupils who thrive under these standards. Strong relationships between pupils and staff contribute to a supportive atmosphere, enabling pupils to achieve well despite any barriers they may face.
The school has established a curriculum that is ambitious for all pupils, particularly those with special educational needs and disabilities. Leaders have taken care to understand the community they serve and work with each pupil as an individual. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and employ various assessment techniques to ensure pupils grasp and retain their learning. While the curriculum is effective overall, there are a few subjects where development is not as secure, which may hinder some pupils from reaching their full potential.
Reading is prioritized within the curriculum, with early-stage readers receiving targeted support to help them catch up. The school employs a structured reading program and monitors progress effectively, ensuring that all pupils become confident and fluent readers. Personal development is integral to the school's mission, with a well-coordinated approach that includes a wide range of extracurricular opportunities. The school places a strong emphasis on careers education, providing exceptional support for pupils transitioning at the end of Year 11, particularly for disadvantaged pupils.
The leadership at Holy Trinity is characterized by a commitment to inclusivity and high standards. The school culture reflects equality and respect, driven by reflective and evaluative leaders who are dedicated to continuous improvement. Communication with parents and carers is highly valued, fostering strong relationships that support the school community. The well-being of staff is also prioritized, with leaders considering workload and providing bespoke professional development to enhance teaching quality.
Governance is effective, with governors and directors understanding their roles and responsibilities, offering constructive support and challenge to the school's leadership. The school actively seeks external reviews to aid improvement and encourages staff to contribute to the development of practices. Safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
To improve further, the school needs to ensure that the curriculum consistently impacts all pupil groups, as some pupils are not achieving to their full potential. Continued development and embedding of the curriculum across all subjects will be essential for achieving exceptional outcomes for every pupil. Overall, Holy Trinity Catholic School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering personal development, while also recognizing areas for growth to enhance the educational experience for all students.
