The Tettenhall school was subject to a SIAMS (Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools) inspection, to evaluate how effective the school’s distinctive Christian vision is in enabling pupils and adults to flourish.
Inspector Kerry Geddis found St Michael's is 'a beacon of love and hope. Strong leadership, ably supported by skilled governors and dedicated staff, has created a vibrant Christian learning community' where 'lives are being transformed'.
It is a 'highly inclusive school where all pupils receive the support and challenge they need to flourish'. Pupils 'exhibit high aspirations and a mature understanding of difference and diversity.'
St Michael's, coupled with the Ark, the school's specialist provision for children with special educational needs and disabilities, 'cherish the worth of each member of the school community', and 'exemplary care and support' is demonstrated to its most vulnerable pupils.
Religious education and collective worship are 'outstanding', with the passion and skill of leaders inspiring staff and children in school and beyond. Worship 'adds depth to the spiritual elements of school' and pupils play a key role in its planning, leading and evaluation.
The church and school communities are interwoven with the unified vision 'to give hope and a future' to all. This, alongside a passion for outreach, has resulted in St Michael's 'being the Christian heart of the local community'.
St Michael's received an overall grade of Excellent, with both the impact of collective worship and the effectiveness of religious education (RE) judged to be Excellent.
Headteacher Kate Jackson said: "We are thrilled that the inclusive nature of our school has been recognised. Being the Christian heart of the community is both a privilege and a responsibility, and one we take very seriously. The children were very much the reason why we did so well.”
Councillor Chris Burden, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: "This is an exceptional SIAMS report which demonstrates the positive impact that St Michael's is having on its pupils, both in the classroom and in the wider community.
"SIAMS inspections are very exacting and to be rated Excellent across the board is a very commendable achievement and so I would like to congratulate Kate Jackson and everyone connected to St Michaels on their success."
The SIAMS inspection is an Ofsted Section 48 inspection that all schools designated as having a religious character have to undergo on a regular basis.
