A primary school in one of Birmingham's most deprived areas has completed a stunning educational journey, transforming from an Ofsted rating of 'requires improvement' to being celebrated as one of the best in Britain.
The Journey from Struggle to Success
In 2014, Lea Forest Primary Academy in Kitts Green, Birmingham, faced significant challenges. Ofsted inspectors found that pupils 'struggled to read confidently or spell words correctly', citing a lack of effective phonics teaching. The school was judged as 'requires improvement'.
Fast forward to the present day, and the story is radically different. The school now boasts an 'outstanding' Ofsted rating and has secured a prestigious place among the top 10 primary schools in the UK, according to The Sunday Times Parent Power Guide for 2026. This ranking places it in the elite tier of roughly 20,000 primary schools across the nation, with the league tables based on Year 6 SATs performance in English, Mathematics, and grammar.
The 'Secret to Success': Sweating the Small Stuff
When asked about this dramatic turnaround, current headteacher Mark White attributed the achievement to a relentless focus on fundamentals. "In many ways, our success is rooted in something quite simple: we 'sweat the small stuff'," he explained.
He elaborated that the school's strategy was built on unwavering consistency and high expectations in every classroom. "We focus on the details: routines, expectations, relationships, high-quality teaching and we never compromise on what we believe our children deserve," said Mr White.
Recognising the socio-economic context of the area, the staff have worked diligently to remove barriers for their pupils. This includes providing targeted pastoral support, early help pathways, and subsidised enrichment activities. "Our belief is simple: every child should have the same rich entitlement of opportunity," he stated, highlighting the school's 'can-do' mindset.
An Ambitious Curriculum and Community Heart
Central to the transformation is a carefully designed, ambitious curriculum intended to spark engagement and excitement. The school has also invested in creating 'high-impact learning environments' within the building, such as an art studio, an innovation hub, and an interactive classroom known as 'the portal'.
"These spaces allow children to explore, question and learn in ways that are exciting and memorable," Mr White noted. Furthermore, principles of community service, kindness, and social responsibility are woven into the school's ethos, aiming for pupils to thrive both academically and socially.
The headteacher was keen to stress that this success is a collective victory. "It truly reflects a whole community effort," he said, paying tribute to the hard work of children and staff, and the remarkable support from families. "Seeing this celebrated on such a large platform is both affirming and humbling. Above all, it motivates us to continue."
The story of Lea Forest Primary Academy stands as a powerful testament to what can be achieved when a school community aligns behind a clear, child-centred vision, proving that exceptional education can flourish anywhere.
