The Olive School, Small Heath celebrates ‘outstanding’ first Ofsted inspection

The Olive School, Small Heath is celebrating after the school was rated as ‘outstanding’ in all areas in its first Ofsted inspection since joining Star Academies in 2019. 

The report, published by Ofsted this week, follows an inspection at the school on 23 and 24 January 2024.  

Ofsted inspectors have awarded the school the highest rating of ‘outstanding’ in all areas, with no areas for improvement.   

In the exemplary report, inspectors commented that ‘There is a wonderfully friendly welcome for all at this school’ and that ‘Staff, pupils and their parents and carers feel a strong sense of belonging.’ 

Lavishing praise on the school’s staff for ‘A culture that aims for excellence across the curriculum’ and highlighting that ‘Pupils enjoy warm relationships with staff who they trust to help and support them at all times’, the report concludes that ‘Pupils simply love coming to school.’ 

The inspectors were fulsome in their praise for the school and stated, ‘The school has extremely high expectations of what pupils can achieve. This is true for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).’ 

In their feedback on pupils’ behaviour and attitudes, the inspectors commented that, ‘Pupils display exemplary behaviours, exceptionally positive attitudes to learning and kind actions. They embody the school’s STAR values of service, teamwork, ambition and respect. Pupils enjoy warm relationships with staff who they trust to help and support them at all times. Pupils simply love coming to school, playing with their friends and being successful learners. They become confident, articulate and resilient learners.’  

Other highlights from the report include:  

• ‘There is a shared ambition that pupils will all receive the education they need to thrive.’
• ‘The school has ensured that staff receive effective and timely training in how the curriculum should be taught.’ 
• ‘There is an inclusive culture in the early years and throughout the school.’ 
• ‘There is an impressive consistency in how lessons are organised.’ 
• ‘The school and trust have been successful in engaging with staff, parents and the community.’   
• ‘Staff are adept in helping children to learn to read with accuracy and fluency.’ 
• ‘Pupils benefit from a wealth of experiences to support their wider development.’ 
• ‘The school motto, ‘nurturing today’s young people, inspiring tomorrow’s leaders’ shines through.’  
• ‘Pupils at The Olive School are very well prepared for their lives in a modern, diverse Britain.’ 
• ‘The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.’ 

Of the exemplary report, Shawkat Chowdhury, Principal at The Olive School, Small Heath said: 

“We are thrilled to receive an outstanding judgement from Ofsted in our first inspection. The collaborative efforts of our team have resulted in the creation of a truly exceptional learning environment. 

“This recognition from Ofsted validates the commitment and passion that permeate every aspect of our school community.It is a reflection of our shared ambition, relentless efforts and the strong partnership between our dedicated staff, motivated pupils, supportive parents, and committed governors. 

“We express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved in making The Olive School, Small Heath an exceptional school that nurtures academic growth in a happy and supportive environment where children thrive.”

To read the full inspection report, click here.

Added By: Star Academies | Date Added: 5th Mar 2024 | Posted In: Latest News