The Friary School, located in Lichfield, Staffordshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 19 and 20, 2024. Under the leadership of headteacher Matt Allman, the school is part of the Primitas Learning Partnership, which involves shared responsibilities among various schools within the trust. The trust is overseen by CEO Mark Maydew and a board of trustees chaired by Jason Marsden.
Pupils at The Friary School thrive in an environment characterized by high expectations. The school fosters a culture where students willingly rise to challenges, supported by dedicated staff who prepare them thoroughly for examinations. This commitment results in impressive academic achievements, equipping students with the confidence needed for their future educational and career paths. The behavior and conduct of pupils are commendable, with students demonstrating diligence and producing high-quality work in lessons. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including creative writing, music, drama, and sports, which contribute to a well-rounded educational experience. The house system enhances school life, encouraging participation in competitions and charitable initiatives.
The curriculum at The Friary School is broad and ambitious, catering for the diverse talents and interests of pupils. In key stages four and five, the school provides various qualifications that promote strong progress in many subjects. Parents and carers express overwhelming satisfaction with the school, highlighting the happiness of their children and the exceptional support provided by teachers.
The school excels in its curriculum design, ensuring that knowledge and skills are built progressively over time. Leaders have carefully sequenced topics, allowing pupils to develop a solid foundation before tackling more complex tasks. For instance, in English, the curriculum is structured to introduce key concepts in Year 7, which are then expanded upon in subsequent years. This thoughtful approach leads to strong progress across subjects.
Teachers at The Friary School possess strong subject knowledge and effectively utilize it to enhance student understanding. They provide valuable feedback, helping pupils recognize their strengths and areas for improvement. However, there are instances where the curriculum may focus too heavily on examination requirements, potentially limiting broader learning experiences.
The school demonstrates a strong commitment to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Clear procedures are in place to identify and address individual needs, ensuring that these pupils are fully integrated into school life and make significant progress. Additionally, the school has implemented effective reading support programs for those who struggle, enabling them to catch up and improve their skills.
The personal, social, health, and economic education curriculum is comprehensive, covering essential topics such as online safety and healthy relationships. Pupils benefit from guest speakers who provide insights into various fields, enriching their understanding of the world around them. The careers program is robust, offering pupils insights into different career paths and opportunities for work experience.
The school also provides numerous opportunities for learning beyond the classroom, including trips to historical sites and cultural events. The local governing body plays an active role in supporting and challenging school leaders, while staff express pride in their work environment and the support they receive.
Overall, The Friary School is recognized for its effective safeguarding measures and commitment to pupil welfare. While the school is performing well, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that the curriculum remains focused on the needs of younger pupils rather than solely on examination outcomes. The school is well-positioned to continue its positive trajectory and maintain its status as a good educational institution.
