THERE WAS double delight for a Solihull school which received top marks in its latest Ofsted inspection.
St Alphege Church of England Schools saw both its Junior School and the Infant and Nursery School come out with positive results following inspections in July.
Both schools, which form the Federation of St Alphege Schools, were inspected separately and recognised for providing an exceptional quality of education and care for pupils.
St Alphege Junior School was rated Outstanding in three out of four areas, while the Infant and Nursery School achieved the same high profile of results, with inspectors also rating Outstanding across behaviour, personal development, and leadership.
Inspectors described the Infant and Nursery School as a “harmonious and welcoming community” where pupils “feel happy and safe” and “respond to the school’s high expectations with enthusiasm”.
Relationships between staff and pupils were said to be “exceptionally strong”, and pupils’ behaviour was described as “impeccable”.
At the Junior School, inspectors praised an “ambitious, nurturing” environment where pupils “achieve very well” and where the school’s Christian vision, ‘let your love show’, “is more than a motto; it is deeply embedded in school life”.
The report commended the “respectful, warm and inclusive” relationships between staff and pupils, and highlighted how “love, care and ambition shine through in all that it does”. Pupils were recognised for their “impressive” behaviour and “exceptional” personal development, with Ofsted noting their strong sense of responsibility, leadership and community spirit.
Both reports found that the schools offer ambitious and well-sequenced curriculums, with a strong culture of reading and high-quality teaching across all subjects. Inspectors also highlighted how pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are supported effectively, ensuring every child can access learning and thrive. Staff across both schools were praised for their expertise, care and teamwork, while governors were recognised for their effective support and challenge.
The school say these reports mark an extraordinary milestone for the two schools.
And added its thanks to the leadership of executive headteacher Sam Smith, they have undergone a transformational journey, strengthening teaching, deepening their curriculum and nurturing a culture where pupils thrive academically, personally and spiritually.
Mr Smith, said: “We are incredibly proud that both of our schools have been recognised so positively by Ofsted. These hard earned reports reflect the dedication, expertise and compassion of our staff teams, the enthusiasm of our pupils and the support of our families and school community.
“At both St Alphege Infant and Nursery and St Alphege Junior Schools, our focus is on helping every child flourish – academically, personally and spiritually. To see that commitment reflected in these outcomes is hugely rewarding for our whole community.”