Birmingham Secondary School Crowned Top Comprehensive in the Midlands
A secondary school in Birmingham has been officially named the best comprehensive school in the Midlands. St Paul's School for Girls in Edgbaston achieved the top spot in the prestigious Sunday Times Parent Power Guide 2026, highlighting schools that consistently exceed expectations.
Excellence in Non-Selective Education
Unlike grammar and private schools, comprehensive schools are non-selective, accepting students from the local area regardless of background. This means inner-city schools often face greater challenges, requiring strong leadership and dedicated staff to succeed.
St Paul's School for Girls, with over 1,000 students on its roll, has demonstrated exceptional performance. The school received a perfect inspection rating from Ofsted, being awarded the highest possible grade of 'outstanding' in its most recent inspection in February 2023.
Glowing Ofsted Report Highlights School Culture
Ofsted's report praised the school's leadership and environment, stating: "Leaders at St Paul’s School for Girls have created a welcoming school culture where there is high ambition for pupils." The report further noted that pupils are aware of the very high expectations and strive to meet or exceed them.
The inspection highlighted strong, caring relationships between staff and pupils, with students conducting themselves exceptionally well in lessons and during social times. Pupils are described as confident, polite, and tolerant individuals who respect and value each other.
Inclusive and Supportive Learning Environment
All pupils at St Paul's enjoy a broad and ambitious curriculum, including disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). The report emphasized that pupils feel safe and well looked after, confident that any problems will be addressed promptly.
Bullying is reported to be rare, and when it does occur, it is dealt with immediately. This supportive atmosphere contributes to the school's outstanding reputation and success in the Midlands region.
