Stirchley Primary School Review 2026: High-Performing Community Hub

In the heart of one of Birmingham's most rapidly evolving suburbs, Stirchley Primary School serves as a cornerstone of the local community. While the surrounding Pershore Road has become known for its independent shops and vibrant social scene, this school has established itself as one of the highest-performing primaries in the city. Serving approximately 217 pupils, it offers a personal, small-school atmosphere where every child is visible. The 2024 academic data tells a remarkable story, with results that place the school in the top tier of primaries in England. Stirchley combines the warmth of a neighborhood school with academic outcomes typically associated with the most selective educational environments.

At drop-off, the gates reveal a school that is deeply integrated into its urban setting. The red-brick architecture, typical of the area's heritage, houses a modern and forward-thinking educational environment. The atmosphere is consistently described as inclusive and purposeful. Mr Davie Clifford, the Head Teacher since September 2017 and CEO of the Evolve Education Trust, has maintained a culture of high expectations, ensuring that the school's small size is used as a strength to foster deep relationships between staff and families.

Stirchley operates as a one-form entry school, meaning there are only 30 children per year group. This structure creates a close-knit, almost familial environment where older pupils often look out for younger ones. The school's values are lived rather than simply displayed; there is a palpable sense of mutual respect in the corridors and a shared pride in the school's identity. Despite being located on a busy commuter route, the internal environment is calm and focused, providing a safe harbor for learning.

The academic performance at Stirchley Primary is a significant point of distinction. In 2024, 81% of pupils met the expected standard in reading, writing, and mathematics combined. This is 20% above the England average of 61%, marking the school as a regional powerhouse for primary education.

The depth of this achievement is even more visible in the higher-standard metrics. Approximately 19% of pupils achieved the higher standard across all three core subjects, a figure that is more than double the England average of 8%. These results place Stirchley Primary School 14th among 269 primaries in Birmingham and 835th in England (FindMySchool proprietary rankings). This position outperforms 94% of schools in England, sitting firmly in the top 10% nationally.

Performance in individual subjects is equally consistent. Reading and Grammar, Punctuation, and Spelling both saw pupils hitting expected standards at rates well above national figures, with average scaled scores of 110 in reading and 109 in mathematics. In a city as large and competitive as Birmingham, these figures demonstrate exceptional teaching efficacy and pupil engagement.

Teaching at Stirchley is characterized by its rigor and the experts behind the desks. The curriculum follows the national framework but is enhanced by a local focus that celebrates the history and diversity of the West Midlands. Science is a particular area of strength, with 85% of pupils meeting expected standards, exceeding the England average of 82%.

Because the school has nursery provision, the learning journey begins early. The early years foundation stage (EYFS) focuses on communication and social development, creating a smooth transition into Reception. As pupils move through the school, there is an increasing emphasis on independence. Small class sizes allow for frequent one-on-one feedback, ensuring that no child falls behind and that the most able are constantly pushed toward the higher standards they so frequently achieve.

With a capacity of 236, Stirchley Primary avoids the anonymity of larger metropolitan schools. The pastoral care system is built on the fact that every teacher knows every child's name and family context. The latest Ofsted inspection in January 2025 confirmed that the school continues to maintain its Good standard. According to the most recent official report, pupils feel safe and well-supported by a dedicated pastoral team led by Mr John Hemming.

Behaviour is excellent and consistently managed. The school uses positive reinforcement to encourage kindness and perseverance. For children requiring additional support, the Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO), Mrs Charlotte Lough, works closely with class teachers to tailor interventions, ensuring the mainstream environment remains accessible for all.

The school makes excellent use of its urban location and indoor and outdoor spaces to provide a broad extracurricular life. Music and the arts are integrated into the school week, and the school participates in various Birmingham-wide sporting fixtures and competitions.

Specific activities found on the schedule include coding clubs, choir, and various sports teams. The school's proximity to local parks and Birmingham's cultural centers allows for frequent educational visits that bring the curriculum to life. These experiences are designed to build cultural capital, ensuring that Stirchley pupils have a broad worldview that extends beyond their immediate neighborhood.

Securing a place at Stirchley Primary is increasingly difficult. As the local area has become more popular with young professionals and families, demand has surged. For the most recent intake, the school was heavily oversubscribed, receiving 133 applications for just 30 places. This means there are over four applications for every available desk.

Admissions are coordinated by Birmingham City Council. For the September 2026 entry, the application period opened on 1 October 2025 and closed on 15 January 2026. National Offer Day is scheduled for 16 April 2026. Priority is given to looked-after children and siblings. For remaining places, distance from the school gate is the deciding factor. Cut-off distances vary annually based on applicant distribution; proximity provides priority but does not guarantee a place.

Leavers from Stirchley transition to a variety of local secondary schools. Many progress to high-performing non-selective schools in the south Birmingham area, such as Dame Elizabeth Cadbury or Bournville School. Given the high Key Stage 2 results, a significant cohort also secures places at the King Edward VI Grammar Schools, which are highly sought after across Birmingham. The school provides a solid foundation for the 11-plus but maintains its focus on a broad and balanced education for all.

The school day typically runs from 8:45am to 3:15pm. For families requiring wraparound care, Stirchley offers a breakfast club starting from 7:45am and an after-school provision until 5:30pm. These services are provided by school staff and must be paid for in advance via the Arbor system.

Transport and travel are predominantly local. Most families walk or scoot to school, which is encouraged. For those coming from slightly further afield, the school is well-served by the 45 and 47 bus routes, though Pershore Road is busy during drop-off and pick-up times, and on-site parking is not available for parents.

Fees & Financial Aid

This is a state-funded academy with no tuition fees. Parents are expected to cover costs for school uniforms and occasional educational trips. Financial support for school meals and certain activities is available for eligible families via the Pupil Premium grant. Wrap-around care is charged separately, with session fees payable half-termly in advance.

• Intense Competition for Places: With over four applications per place, Stirchley is fiercely oversubscribed. Living in the local area does not guarantee entry; proximity is the primary hurdle, and families should have a clear secondary preference.
• Urban Site Constraints: Being an inner-city school, the physical footprint is compact. While the school manages its space creatively, those seeking sprawling green playing fields on-site may find the setting limited.
• Academic Pace: The results here are exceptional, which implies a fast-moving and ambitious curriculum. While the school is inclusive, the high percentage of pupils reaching the higher standard creates a high-achieving peer group.

Stirchley Primary School is an academic gem that manages to retain the heart of a local community school. Its results place it among the top 10% of schools in England, yet it remains a welcoming, mixed-ability environment. Best suited to families within the immediate Stirchley area who want a small-school feel with high-level academic outcomes. The main hurdle is entry, once secured, the education is exceptional.