Parents across Birmingham are scrambling to secure places at the city's most elite primary schools, as the deadline for applications for the next academic year fast approaches. A select group of primaries have earned the education watchdog's highest possible accolade, placing them in a prestigious category reserved for the very best.
The Race for School Places
The crucial deadline for submitting primary school applications for children starting Reception in September 2026 is January 15. This has triggered a predictable rush among families eager to secure a spot at one of the region's top-performing institutions. With hundreds of primaries across the city, only a handful have achieved the coveted 'outstanding' grade from Ofsted, making competition for places particularly fierce.
What Makes a School 'Outstanding'?
An Ofsted 'outstanding' rating is a rare distinction, not awarded lightly. Schools must demonstrate the very highest standards across a rigorous inspection framework. Inspectors judge performance in key areas including the quality of teaching, pupil behaviour and attitudes, attendance, and the effectiveness of leadership and management.
It is important to note that while the single-word grading system has now been scrapped for schools in England, many institutions retain their existing ratings, as full inspections typically only occur every few years.
Birmingham's Outstanding Primary Schools
Based on the latest published data from Ofsted's website, the following Birmingham primary schools currently hold the 'outstanding' rating. This list includes community schools and academies, but excludes independent or special schools.
- Parkfield Community School, Saltley
- The Olive School, Small Heath
- The Olive School, Reddings Lane
- Shaw Hill, Alum Rock
- St Michael's CoE Academy, Handsworth
- Oasis Academy Foundry
- Moor Green Primary, Moseley
- Dorrington Academy, Perry Barr
- Colmore Infants, Kings Heath
- Billesley Primary
- Lea Forest Primary, Kitts Green
- Wyndcliffe Primary, Bordesley Green
- Grove Vale Primary, Great Barr
- Nishkam Primary, Handsworth
- Prince Albert Junior and Infants, Aston
- Princethorpe Infants, Weoley Castle
- Montgomery Primary, Sparkbrook
For parents navigating the school admissions process, this list serves as a crucial starting point. Securing a place at one of these highly sought-after schools is considered a significant step in providing a child with a top-tier education in the Birmingham region.
