St Mary's Catholic Primary School, Harborne Review 2026: Strong Results in a Faith-Centred Community

In 1871, a schoolroom rose behind the chapel in Harborne, and St Mary's has remained a pillar of Catholic education in this affluent suburb ever since. The current two-storey building, nestled within the grounds of St Mary's Priory, sits on a foundation stone laid in 1895. Today, the school admits 420 pupils across two forms of entry, with impressive recent results placing it among the highest-performing primaries locally. In 2024, 90% of Year 6 pupils achieved the expected standard in reading, writing and mathematics combined, well above the England average of 62%. Ranked 768th in England for primary outcomes, the school sits in the top 5% nationally and ranks 12th among Birmingham primaries (FindMySchool ranking). The spiritual life of the school is genuine and pervasive. Pupils belong to one of four houses, participate in sacramental preparation through St Mary's Church, and speak naturally about their Catholic values. For families seeking strong academics alongside authentic faith formation, this is a school worth considering. Entry is competitive; Reception places are consistently oversubscribed.

The school occupies an attractive two-storey building positioned within the grounds of St Mary's Priory, looking out onto a large grassed play area bordered by mature trees. The setting has a surprisingly rural quality for an urban location, with classrooms facing open space rather than roads. Teachers consistently set high expectations, and pupils appear genuinely engaged. During classroom observations recorded in the recent Ofsted report, pupils were seen to be "keen readers" who speak with confidence about their learning.

Mrs Louise Yorke arrived as head teacher in September 2021 and leads a school conscious of its heritage but equally committed to contemporary practice. Behaviour is calm and purposeful throughout the building. The school operates as a genuine community: pupils serve as House Captains, Prefects, and Rights Respecting School Ambassadors. The School Council meets monthly to discuss improvements. A weekly newsletter celebrates individual pupil achievements, and parent engagement is actively encouraged through newsletters and social media updates.

The Catholic character is woven throughout. Daily prayer happens in classrooms; whole-school assemblies reflect on Gospel values; Year 3 and Year 4 pupils complete sacramental preparation through St Mary's Church. The school's four houses are named after saints with links to Catholic education and spirituality. Pupils clearly understand the school's mission to enable "every child to fulfil their God-given gifts and achieve their very best." This is not faith as decoration; it is integrated into how the school operates.

Key Stage 2 Performance

The 2024 KS2 results confirm a school delivering strong outcomes. 90% of pupils achieved the expected standard in reading, writing and mathematics combined, significantly above the England average of 62%. This places the school well above typical performance, and it reflects consistent execution of a careful curriculum.

Breaking down the subjects reveals particular strengths. In reading, 93% reached the expected standard, with scaled scores averaging 110 (England average: 100). In mathematics, 88% met expected standard with an average scaled score of 107 (England average: 100). Grammar, punctuation and spelling proved a particular strength: 92% achieved the expected standard, with average scaled scores of 111 (England average: 100). In science, 92% of pupils reached the expected standard, compared to 82% nationally.

At the higher standard, 51% of pupils achieved greater depth in reading, mathematics and grammar combined, compared to just 8% nationally. This indicates the school is working effectively with more able learners, not just meeting a baseline. These results position the school in the elite tier for primary education.

Rankings

The school ranks 768th in England for primary results (FindMySchool ranking), placing it in the top 5% of schools nationally. Locally, it ranks 12th among 87 primaries in Birmingham. This is a school delivering results that place it among the strongest primaries in its city.

The curriculum follows the national framework with deliberate enrichment. French instruction begins in Year 1, taught by a specialist. Mathematics is structured into ability sets from Year 4 onwards, allowing more targeted progression. Reading is taught systematically using phonics and whole-class approaches that emphasize explicit instruction of vocabulary and concepts. Year 6 receives additional morning sessions during spring term to consolidate learning ahead of SATs.

Teachers demonstrate secure subject knowledge. The recent inspection noted that "teachers set challenging work that builds on pupils' knowledge and skills well." Pupils report that knowledge "sticks in their head," suggesting they understand the reasoning behind what they are taught, not simply memorising facts. Assessment happens both within lessons and at the end of units, enabling teachers to adjust their approach when misconceptions emerge.

The school places emphasis on communication and literacy. World Book Days and National Poetry Day are marked with special activities. Drama, art, computing and design technology are taught by specialists or through integrated approaches. PE is a statutory part of the curriculum; swimming lessons happen at Harborne Pool and Fitness Centre, with pupils walking there under supervision. All children aim to swim competently, confidently and proficiently over at least 25 metres by Year 6.

Pupils transition to secondary schools across Birmingham based on their address and ability. The majority progress to local non-selective secondaries or apply for selective grammar school places. Around 25% of Year 6 pupils secure places at grammar schools, typically Reading School and Kendrick School. The school provides familiarization sessions with 11-plus style questions but does not offer formal grammar school preparation; families pursuing selective entry typically arrange external tutoring.

The school emphasizes transition support. Year 6 receives additional sessions focusing on secondary readiness. Pupils visit their destination secondary schools. The vast majority remain within their local authority, though a notable minority travel further for selective places. This reflects the strong results: families with children who have performed well see secondary school selection as an opportunity worth pursuing.

The extracurricular programme is carefully curated around school values and seasonal rhythms. Before and after-school clubs run Monday to Thursday, changing termly. Current clubs include Football, Netball, Karate and other activities led by external coaches and school staff. Music lessons are available for individual and small-group instruction in a range of instruments. The school particularly values whole-school events: an annual Christmas production involving many pupils, a summer Sports Day, and class-based performance opportunities in assemblies. These events emphasize participation over performance, with roles for children across all ability levels.

Sports is integral to school life. The school holds Gold status in the School Games and participates in regular inter-school competitions. Swimming is embedded within PE, with lessons at Harborne Pool and Fitness Centre providing structured progression. The school competes in football, netball and other sports through the local authority's competitive fixtures. While the school is not a specialist sports provider, strong fundamentals are embedded: fitness, teamwork, and an understanding of basic rules and tactics.

Spiritual and leadership development runs throughout. The School Council, elected by peers, meets monthly to improve the learning environment. The Spiritual Council leads prayer and reflection. Prefects and House Captains take visible roles in whole-school assemblies and ceremonies. The Rights Respecting School Ambassadors programme trains pupils to understand and champion children's rights, with specific focus on rights-based language in lessons. The CAFOD Club connects pupils to Catholic social teaching through fundraising and awareness activities, including donations to support local and global communities.

The school embraces the liturgical calendar. Advent, Lent and Marian devotions are observed through prayer and reflection. Pupils participate in all-school retreats during the year. Year 3 and Year 4 prepare for First Holy Communion and Confirmation through structured sacramental preparation with the parish church. These are not optional extras; they are core to the Catholic mission. The school's most recent Catholic Schools Inspection awarded Good, with 6 of 9 areas judged Outstanding, affirming that faith education is of high quality.

Library facilities include a newly decorated space with a mural based on pupils' favourite books. The school regularly celebrates reading achievements through National Poetry Day events and World Book Days, embedding a reading culture throughout.

Reception admissions are coordinated by Birmingham City Council. Places are heavily oversubscribed, with 173 applications for just 60 spaces in recent years (a ratio of nearly 3:1). As a Catholic voluntary-aided school, the first criterion is baptized Catholic children, followed by practising Catholics with evidence of parish involvement, then other Christians, then applications based on distance. Priority is given to looked-after children and siblings.

There is no formal catchment boundary; the school draws from across Birmingham. Families from further afield often apply on the basis of faith. Visiting the school is recommended before applying; open afternoons are typically held in autumn term. The school website provides details of admissions arrangements and appeals processes.

For in-year admissions, contact the school office or Birmingham City Council's in-year admissions team.

Every class has a class teacher and teaching assistant. The Designated Safeguarding Lead oversees all child protection matters. Additional pastoral support is available through the school's Thrive team, which offers emotional literacy and regulation support for pupils who need it. The school employs trained staff to deliver this programme.

Behaviour is managed through clear, consistent policies rooted in the school's Gospel values. Pupils report feeling safe; when asked in the Ofsted inspection, they quickly listed trusted adults and confirmed "You can speak to any adult about a problem and they will help." The school holds the Inclusion Quality Mark, reflecting its commitment to supporting all learners. A trained counsellor visits weekly to provide additional emotional support for identified pupils.

School lunches are provided daily by an external catering company. Menus are available online, with options including vegetarian choices. Free school meals are available to eligible pupils (those meeting government criteria for universal infant free school meals or those whose families claim eligible benefits).

School hours are 8:50am to 3:20pm. Before-school care is not formally advertised as a wraparound service, though families can contact the school to discuss childcare options. After-school clubs run until approximately 5:30pm during term time, with holiday club provision available during school holidays. Breakfast club facilities may be available; families should enquire with the school office on 01214642141.

Transport is by private arrangement, school transport or public bus. Harborne is well served by public buses; the school is approximately 3 miles south-west of Birmingham city centre. Parking outside the school is limited and can be challenging at peak drop-off and pick-up times; families are encouraged to use nearby side streets or public transport where possible.

Uniform is required and is tailored to the Catholic character: girls wear a navy skirt or trousers with white shirt and navy jumper; boys wear navy trousers and white shirt with navy jumper. A school tie is worn. Optional items include a navy blazer. Further details and a uniform supplier list are on the school website. School meals are provided daily, with costs covered by free school meals eligibility or by parent payment.

Oversubscribed entry: Reception places are heavily contested. Even for Catholic families, distance becomes a factor. Families living outside the immediate parish area should not assume a place will be available. Apply on the main admissions deadline and be prepared to navigate appeals if unsuccessful.

Faith commitment expectation: The Catholic character is genuine and pervasive. Pupils participate in sacramental preparation, daily prayer and regular masses. Families uncomfortable with explicit religious teaching and practice should consider whether this aligns with their worldview. The school is inclusive of other faiths and families of no faith, but Catholic identity is central.

Grammar school coaching: The school does not offer intensive grammar school preparation. While 11-plus familiarization sessions happen, families seeking selective entry should arrange external tutoring if they wish to optimize chances. This is common practice locally, but it adds cost and time commitment.

Class size: With two forms of entry, classes typically contain 30 pupils. This is standard for state primaries, but families preferring smaller groups may find this a factor.

A well-led Catholic primary delivering strong academic results within an authentic faith community. Pupils achieve well, feel safe, and understand the values underpinning their school. The building and grounds are pleasant; staff are committed; behaviour is calm. The school combines academic rigour with spiritual formation, making it attractive to Catholic families and those seeking a values-driven education.

Best suited to families within or with a genuine connection to the Catholic faith who value both strong academics and spiritual formation. Entry is competitive, especially from outside the parish, so early enquiry and engagement with the school are advisable.