A CLASS Act!
| Published date | 25 April 2024 |
| Publication title | Birmingham Mail (England) |
St Michael's Church of England Primary Academy has received a coveted 'Outstanding' rating from schools regulator Ofsted, marking the culmination of a fierce collective determination to give the area's youngsters the best possible start in life.
Modest head Philip Hynan and his Handsworth-raised deputy Daniel Martin point to others when asked how they have done it.
"It is a collective achievement," said Philip, praising not just his staff and families but the input of community groups, neighbouring residents, places of worship and charities. "It is a collaborative effort that is fundamentally motivated and inspired by love and people."
The opening lines of the Ofsted report for the school would warm the heart of any parent or educator.
"An abundance of love, care and ambition are evident across this school.
"The school is transforming the lives of families and pupils. Many pupils join the school at different times throughout the year. Some stay for a little while. Some stay for longer. But what is consistent is the school's determination that every pupil will, and does, do well. There is a high level of care for every child.
"This includes family support, nurture
We are in our belief Handsworth community Head Philip and mentoring. Pupils who are new to school benefit from the exceptional care that all pupils receive. Home visits ensure that these pupils and their families get the help they need to settle in swiftly. Behaviour is notably praiseworthy.
Not a moment of learning is wasted. All pupils achieve highly across the curriculum."
Inspectors also praise the 'raft of additional opportunities provided' - from biking to ballet, sailing to supper club, the urban farm to the food cupboard; nothing is too much trouble for the school.'
The curriculum celebrates the rich and varied cultural heritage of Handsworth passionate that is not a of deficit.
Hynan and Birmingham, with the history, geography, art and culture of black and South Asian Brummies and Brits at its heart. Content is pitched high, with subjects like Latin and debating included. The speed of the turnaround has been impressive. In September 2021 the school was rated as 'requires improvement',' the second lowest rating Ofsted gives. However, the head and his deputy, who started together that month, have overseen a...
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