The University of Birmingham School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 16 May 2023

Pupils enjoy coming to The University of Birmingham School. There is a vibrant and diverse environment, where all pupils are very much valued. All pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), benefit a great deal from coming to this school. Pupils say they feel safe. Leaders have very high aspirations for all pupils. As a result, pupils are gaining an education that prepares them very well for a successful life beyond school. Leaders prioritise pupils' character development and academic achievement equally. Pupils behave very well around school. They have positive attitudes and are courteous. The small proportion who finds this difficult are supported well to learn from their mistakes and make better choices. Pupils say that on the rare occasion when bullying does happen, it is dealt with quickly and effectively. Leaders have ensured that all pupils study a broad and ambitious curriculum in all key stages. In the sixth form, students are able to choose from a wide range of A-level subjects. The vast majority move on to university. Pupils' wider development is supported exceedingly well. There is a wide range of extra- curricular activities. All pupils in Year 9, for example, participate in the bronze Duke of Edinburgh's Award.

What the school should improve

• On a small number of occasions, teachers do not check pupils' understanding before moving them on to new learning. As a result, some pupils have misconceptions about their learning, which are not addressed. Leaders should ensure that assessment strategies are used to full effect to enable pupils to build successfully on what they already know.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)