Two secondary schools in Birmingham will begin the upcoming school year in September under special measures, following critical Ofsted reports that judged them as failing to provide an acceptable educational standard. This status places significant pressure on school leaders to implement the improvements required by the education watchdog, with return inspections anticipated to assess progress.
These schools are among the lowest-ranked secondary institutions in the West Midlands. Archbishop Ilsley Catholic School, located in Acocks Green with over 1,100 pupils, was recently placed into special measures after inspectors identified several serious concerns. Observations included unruly pupil behaviour, such as the use of racist and sexist language. The school received three ‘urgent improvement’ ratings, notably in attendance and behaviour, and leadership and governance-the worst possible grades.
Ofsted reported that a “significant minority of pupils are boisterous” within corridors, engaging in pushing and play fighting that left some students feeling unsafe. The inspection highlighted that leaders have not ensured an acceptable standard of education for pupils, despite being aware of the improvements needed. However, their actions so far have not been effective in bringing about necessary changes.
READ MORE: Update on Oldbury Rape Investigation: Police Remain Hopeful for Breakthrough
READ MORE: HMRC Opens Second Phase of Mandatory Tax Adviser Registration with November 18 Deadline
In response, the trust managing Archbishop Ilsley fully accepts the inspection findings and is determined to pursue rapid improvements. They emphasise their commitment to providing high-quality education and inclusive support to all pupils, acknowledging that this standard is not yet consistently met. Interim leadership arrangements have been introduced to enhance capacity and support swift progress.
Similarly, Moseley School and Sixth Form, situated on Wake Green Road, also fell into special measures earlier this year. Ofsted concluded that teaching quality and leadership at the school fall well below expected standards. The school received the lowest ‘urgent improvement’ ratings in curriculum and teaching, as well as leadership and governance.
Inspectors noted that leaders are aware of the school’s declining educational quality and recognise multiple weaknesses. However, they have been slow to address these issues. As a result, pupils' outcomes have deteriorated, teaching quality has declined, and student behaviour and attitudes have worsened. While recently implemented actions aim to tackle these problems, it is too soon to determine their effectiveness.
In April, Moseley’s school leadership acknowledged that standards had not met expectations but confirmed that efforts to improve were already underway. Both schools face significant challenges but are prioritising measures to bring about the necessary improvements in the new academic year.