Smith’s Wood Academy in Solihull has undergone a remarkable transformation, earning praise from Ofsted inspectors after years of challenges. Just three years ago, the secondary school, serving nearly 900 pupils from Chelmsley Wood and north Solihull, was criticized for frequent fighting, bullying, and high truancy rates. In 2023, Ofsted rated the school as ‘inadequate’ across all areas, citing instability from significant leadership changes.
Under the leadership of Principal Steve Huntington, the academy has made impressive progress. Positive monitoring reports followed, and the school’s 2025 GCSE results placed it as the 15th most improved school nationwide according to Department for Education data.
The January Ofsted inspection, conducted under the new framework, highlighted that Smith’s Wood Academy now meets expected standards in key areas. Inspectors commended the school’s ongoing efforts to improve attendance, behavior, and support for pupils facing barriers such as disadvantage or English as an additional language. Bullying incidents are now promptly addressed, and pupils’ behavior reflects high expectations set by school leaders.
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Additionally, inspectors noted significant and effective leadership changes since the last inspection and praised the school’s preparation of students for life beyond education.
However, the report indicated that improvements are still needed in curriculum delivery and pupil achievement in national exams. Inspectors stressed the importance of adapting teaching and assessment to better support student learning and deepen their knowledge and skills.
Principal Huntington commented, “The new framework is very challenging, but this report clearly shows how far the school has come in a short time. Everyone’s efforts have contributed to this success, and we are proud. We see this as just the beginning and are committed to making Smith’s Wood Academy the best school in the area.”
Simon Jones, Chief Executive of the Fairfax Multi Academy Trust, added, “I am immensely proud of our staff and students for achieving these unprecedented improvements. This transformation is a collective effort, and it’s encouraging to see Ofsted acknowledge the quality of education now provided here.”