Shireland Technology Primary in Smethwick has been congratulated by the Secretary of State for Education after achieving ‘excellent outcomes’ for disadvantaged pupils in the 2024/25 academic year, placing the school among the ‘very best nationally’.
In an official letter, the Secretary of State commended the school’s performance, stating that the outcomes reflected the ‘dedication’ of staff and the sustained commitment of pupils. The letter highlighted that the achievements demonstrated what could be delivered when ‘ambition and commitment come together’ within a school community.
The school was also encouraged to continue sharing its practice more widely across the education sector. The Department for Education noted that high-performing schools had an important role to play in supporting collaboration, strengthening networks and helping to ‘raise standards’ nationally by sharing ‘effective practice’.
Andy Collins, Associate Principal at Shireland Technology Primary, said: “This commendation is a fantastic recognition of the work happening across our school community. It reflects sustained effort over time with staff, pupils and families working closely together to maintain high expectations and a shared focus on every child’s success. Our responsibility now is to build on this work so that every child, whatever their starting point, has the opportunity to achieve and thrive.”
The school’s achievement follows similar recognition for its neighbouring school, Shireland Collegiate Academy, which is also part of the Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust. The Academy recently received a letter commending its exceptional outcomes for disadvantaged students, highlighting a wider pattern of strong performance across the Trust.
