Star King Solomon Academy, previously among Birmingham’s lowest-rated schools, is making encouraging strides forward, according to a recent Ofsted monitoring visit. Eighteen months ago, the school faced serious challenges, receiving an ‘inadequate’ rating in two key areas and ‘requires improvement’ in two others. Since then, leaders have worked relentlessly to address these concerns.
Located near Birmingham city centre, the school’s progress has not gone unnoticed. Ofsted inspectors acknowledged improvements in several areas, though they noted that further work remains to be done. The education watchdog highlighted advancements in pupil behaviour, attendance, curriculum delivery, and teaching quality, indicating a positive trajectory for both the primary and secondary phases.
In September 2024, the academy’s education quality and leadership had been graded at the lowest level, sparking urgent action. At that time, inspectors also raised concerns about high absence rates and the need for improved student behaviour.
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Since then, attendance rates have improved significantly from a very low starting point, and behaviour has bettered considerably. However, attendance still requires ongoing attention to reach the desired standards.
Adrian Rollins, principal of the secondary phase, and Reverend Michelle Grannell, principal of the primary phase, expressed cautious optimism: “While it is encouraging that the report acknowledges our recent progress in establishing strong foundations, we recognize there remains much to do. Our team remains focused, determined, and ambitious in our goal to provide an outstanding education for our young people.”
They added, “It is reassuring that inspectors saw how our leaders have prioritized foundational improvements, allowing future progress to take root. We will continue building on these gains to ensure all pupils achieve their highest potential.”
Ofsted also noted staff morale has improved, with many feeling supported by the trust and proud of the evolving educational standards. The continued focus on behaviour and attendance alongside curriculum and teaching enhancements positions Star King Solomon Academy on a more stable path toward excellence.