Prince Albert High School, located in Birmingham, has recently undergone its first inspection since opening in September 2021. The school has received a positive overall effectiveness rating of good, with specific commendations in various areas. The quality of education is also rated as good, while behavior and attitudes have been recognized as outstanding. Personal development and leadership and management have both received a good rating as well. The headteacher, Manjit Harvey-More, leads the school, which is part of the PA Community Trust, overseen by CEO Phillipa Sherlock-Lewis and a board of trustees chaired by Paulette Osborne MBE.
The school fosters a strong culture of integrity, excellence, and service among its pupils and staff. This is evident in the way students take responsibility for their environment, such as cleaning up the dining hall. The atmosphere is characterized by mutual respect and care, with warm interactions between staff and pupils. Despite being relatively new, the school has established a collaborative spirit where everyone is committed to helping each other succeed. High expectations for conduct and academic performance are evident, with pupils generally displaying excellent behavior in lessons and during social times. When issues arise, the school addresses them fairly and consistently.
The curriculum at Prince Albert High is ambitious and designed to cater to all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school emphasizes a step-by-step approach to learning, ensuring that pupils build on their knowledge over time. The curriculum is also reflective of the community, incorporating relevant historical comparisons in subjects like history. Teachers employ a consistent approach to learning, helping pupils recall previous lessons and understand new concepts. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in helping pupils grasp the significance of the subject-specific skills they are developing.
Regular assessments are conducted to ensure pupils understand their learning before moving on to independent tasks. While pupils produce strong written work, there is a need for more opportunities for discussion in lessons to enhance their understanding and oracy skills. The school has prioritized reading, providing support for those who struggle and encouraging a culture of reading widely. Pupils with SEND receive tailored support, allowing them to achieve impressive outcomes alongside their peers.
Attendance and punctuality are emphasized, with pupils understanding the importance of these aspects. The school adopts a holistic approach to safeguarding and pastoral care, ensuring that each pupil is recognized as an individual. Through various lessons and assemblies, pupils learn about their role in society and receive guidance on future educational and career options.
Overall, Prince Albert High School is on a promising path, with a clear vision for community engagement and a commitment to excellence. The school is oversubscribed, reflecting its strong reputation. The leadership is robust, and the school community takes pride in its achievements. However, to further enhance the educational experience, the school should focus on providing more opportunities for discussion and ensuring pupils understand the relevance of their learning to future studies. The recent inspection highlights the school's strengths while also identifying areas for growth, setting a positive trajectory for its future.
