Those are the findings of the recent SIAMS (Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools) inspection of St Bartholomew's Church of England Primary School, which focused on the impact its Christian vision has on pupils and adults.
Inspector the Revd Dr Jason Phillips, who carried out the inspection, described St Bartholomew's as a "real treasure, significantly extending the mission of Lichfield Diocese", and found it to be "deeply Christian and foremost in serving the common good".
Academic progress and attainment at the Sedgley Road, Penn, school is “consistently high and for many pupils exceptional", and its children are given the best possible chances thanks to the "passionate promotion of the vision by inspirational staff".
The school offers a "wonderfully caring and nurturing Christian environment where pastoral care is outstanding", while excellent teaching of religious education "enhances other aspects of the curriculum whilst promoting a deep understanding of diversity and respect". Spirituality is intrinsic to enabling pupils and adults to flourish.
Headteacher Rachael Kilmister "successfully develops her staff as skilful church school leaders". Pupils are inspired by the staff to be the best they can be, learning and achieving together.
Pupil behaviour is "exemplary" and leaders prioritise pupil and staff wellbeing, ensuring pastoral care is outstanding. The "immensely dedicated staff go the ‘extra mile’" for pupils, while families from a range of backgrounds and faiths readily turn to the school when support is needed.
The school has a "highly productive relationship" with the St Bartholomew's Church of England Multi Academy Trust, with its leaders "transformational in raising expectations and standards". Governors are "exceptionally rigorous and effective".
Rating the school excellent overall for the effectiveness of its Christian vision in enabling pupils and adults to flourish, the Revd Phillips concluded his inspection by saying: "With a strength of character to step out in faith, pupils leave this school highly motivated to make a positive difference to their world."
Mrs Kilmister said: "I am delighted that our wonderful children, staff, Governors and wider church community have been recognised in this way. I am immensely proud to part of the St Bart's community and of the lovely, caring and compassionate pupils who epitomise our core values and leave the School as fantastic citizens and ambassadors."
Councillor Dr Michael Hardacre, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, said: “This is an exceptional SIAMS report which demonstrates the hugely positive impact that St Bartholomew's Church of England Primary School is having, not only on its own pupils, but on those of the other schools within the academy trust, including Woodfield Primary School in Penn and beyond.”
SIAMS inspections focus on the impact of a Church school's Christian vision on pupils and adults. They look at the School’s Christian vision, the provision the school makes because of this vision and how effective this provision is in enabling all pupils to flourish.
