Our Lady of Compassion Catholic Primary School, located in Solihull, West Midlands, has recently undergone its first inspection since becoming an academy. The inspection took place on April 23 and 24, 2024, and the school received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The quality of education, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision were all rated as good, while behaviour and attitudes were rated as outstanding.
The headteacher, Neil Emery, leads a dedicated team that strives to uphold the school’s motto, “To live as Jesus taught us.” This ethos is reflected in the high ambitions set for all pupils, including those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs and disabilities. The school fosters a nurturing environment where pupils feel cared for and supported, resulting in excellent behaviour and respectful relationships between staff and students. Pupils demonstrate courtesy, friendliness, and a strong work ethic, contributing to a positive learning atmosphere.
The curriculum at Our Lady of Compassion is broad and ambitious, with a strong emphasis on reading. The structured approach to teaching reading effectively develops pupils' phonics skills, and staff are quick to identify those who may need additional support. The school provides targeted help to ensure that all pupils can catch up and enjoy a variety of reading opportunities through well-equipped reading nooks and a library filled with engaging texts.
Staff members possess strong subject knowledge, allowing them to tailor work to meet the diverse needs of pupils, including those with SEND. However, there is a noted area for improvement, as some pupils, particularly those capable of more, are not always moved on to new learning quickly enough, which can hinder their progress. The school is committed to addressing this issue to enhance the learning experience for all students.
In the early years, children settle in well and feel safe and happy. Staff work diligently to understand each child’s needs and begin their learning journey promptly. However, there are instances where learning activities do not effectively build on what children already know, which can slow their development. The school recognizes the importance of ensuring that learning tasks are designed to progressively enhance children’s knowledge and skills.
Pupils’ behaviour is exemplary, with a clear understanding of the school’s high expectations. The environment is calm and orderly, with minimal disruption to learning time. The school promotes pupils’ wider development through a variety of extracurricular activities, including clubs and lessons that cover important life skills and cultural awareness. This comprehensive approach prepares pupils well for life in modern Britain.
Leadership at the school is characterized by dedication and passion. Senior leaders are proactive in identifying and addressing any shortcomings, working collaboratively with the multi-academy trust to drive improvements. Staff express pride in their work and feel supported in managing their workload and well-being.
The school’s safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring that pupils are protected and their welfare is prioritized. Overall, Our Lady of Compassion Catholic Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive community for its pupils. The school is well-positioned to build on its successes and address areas for improvement, ensuring that all pupils achieve their full potential.
