Shireland Collegiate Academy: Innovation and Ambition in the Heart of Smethwick

Aim Higher, See Further, Be Concerned. This motto captures the ethos of a school that has transformed educational provision in Smethwick over nearly two decades. Shireland Collegiate Academy is a large, inclusive secondary school serving students aged 11 to 19, with a sixth form that has earned Outstanding recognition from inspectors. The academy is part of the Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust, which it founded, and has been at the forefront of curriculum innovation since becoming an academy in 2007.

The school combines academic ambition with genuine pastoral warmth. With a Progress 8 score of +0.38, students make well above average progress from their starting points. The October 2024 Ofsted inspection awarded Outstanding grades for behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and sixth form provision, with Good ratings for quality of education and leadership. An overwhelming sense of community and mutual respect greets you as you arrive. This is an academy where high expectations are matched by the structures and support systems to help every student succeed.

Shireland Collegiate Academy sits on Waterloo Road in Smethwick, serving a diverse community in the metropolitan borough of Sandwell. The site has evolved through multiple incarnations since the original school was built in 1907, originally operating as Shireland High School before becoming a Language College in 1998 and gaining academy status in 2007. The physical environment now combines period character with modern teaching facilities, including a lecture theatre-style auditorium, dance studios, and extensive sports provision.

Associate Principal Mr Thomas Daly leads the academy with a vision centred on caring for students while inspiring, motivating and challenging them to fulfil their potential. The school's values centre on three pillars: Innovation, Collaboration, and Inspiration. These are not abstract concepts displayed on corridor walls. The Literacy for Life curriculum, developed over 15 years and now published by Hodder Education, is used in over 70 schools across England. This pioneering approach to cross-curricular learning in Key Stage 3 reflects the academy's identity as a Microsoft Showcase School.

Sir Mark Grundy led the academy and its predecessors from 1997, earning a knighthood for his services to education. He established many of the innovative practices that continue today. The Trust's principles drive curriculum development and shape school culture across its network of schools.

Students describe themselves as happy in school, valuing the opportunities to support each other. The October 2024 inspection confirmed that pupils' behaviour is exemplary. Bullying is rare and dealt with highly effectively when it does occur. The Leading Parent Partnership Award recognises how central families are to the academy's ethos, with parents invited into a close network of partners and friends to play an active role in their children's learning. The Shireland Learning Gateway provides an online community for students, families and staff, giving parents a window into their children's classrooms.

GCSE results place the school in the middle tier of England's secondary schools. The academy ranks 2,406th in England and 1st in Smethwick for GCSE outcomes (FindMySchool ranking), sitting in line with the middle 35% of schools in England (25th to 60th percentile).

The Attainment 8 score of 47.6 sits above the England average of 45.9. In 2024, 69% of students achieved Grade 4 or above in both English and Mathematics, with 49% achieving Grade 5 or above in these core subjects. Particularly strong performances emerged in the sciences, with over 50% of students attaining Grade 7 or higher in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. English, History, Art and Religious Studies also produced notable results.

The Progress 8 score of +0.38 indicates that students make significantly above-average progress from their starting points. This positive value-added figure suggests the teaching adds genuine value to outcomes, regardless of where students begin their journey. Individual highlights from 2024 include students achieving combinations of six Grade 9s alongside further top grades, demonstrating that high attainment is achievable here.

The English Baccalaureate take-up is modest at 4.2% achieving grade 5 or above in the full EBacc suite, though the curriculum section explains the academy's distinctive approach to Key Stage 3, which delays some subject choices. The average EBacc APS score of 3.9 is close to the England average of 4.08.

At A-level, the academy ranks 1,500th in England and 2nd in Smethwick (FindMySchool ranking), positioning it in the middle 35% of sixth forms in England. The grade profile shows 40.4% of entries achieving A*-B, with 18.3% at A*/A. The England average for A*-A grades is 23.6%, and for A*-B is 47.2%.

These figures tell only part of the story. What matters is whether students are prepared for their next steps. The sixth form was rated Outstanding by Ofsted, with inspectors noting that students are positive about their exceptional learning and enrichment opportunities. Students in the sixth form are exceptionally well prepared for life beyond school.

The academy offers a traditional academic curriculum alongside vocational pathways. Facilitating A-levels commonly needed for entry to leading universities include Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Geography, History, English Literature and modern languages. BTEC courses run alongside, with 100% pass rates and 41% achieving Distinction or better in recent results. For students needing additional preparation, tailored Level 2 courses in IT, Business Studies, Sport and Social Science provide stepping stones to A-level study.

The combined A-level and GCSE ranking of 1,422nd in England provides a more complete picture of the school's academic performance across both phases.

In 2024, 56% of sixth form leavers progressed to university from a cohort of 122 students. An additional 5% started apprenticeships and 11% moved directly into employment, reflecting the academy's commitment to preparing students for multiple pathways, not merely the traditional university route.

16% of A-level leavers progress to Russell Group universities, placing students at some of the country's leading research institutions. One student secured a place at Cambridge in the measurement period from two applications. This Oxbridge success, while modest in numbers, demonstrates that pathways to the most competitive universities exist for students who achieve at the highest level.

The Futures programme provides comprehensive careers guidance, with industry partnerships bringing employers into contact with students. Work experience opportunities help clarify career directions. Whether destinations involve medicine, engineering, creative industries or vocational careers, the preparation is intentional and structured. The Shireland Made destination tracking programme monitors where students progress after leaving.

The curriculum approach at Shireland is genuinely distinctive. The L4L (Literacy for Life) curriculum, developed over 15 years and published by Hodder Education, structures Key Stage 3 learning through thematic units. Year 7 students spend 17 hours weekly with the same teacher, reducing to 13 hours in Year 8 and 8 hours in Year 9. This model prioritises deep relationships between teachers and students while maintaining academic rigour.

Professor Mick Waters has provided quality assurance for the curriculum framework, lending academic credibility to what might otherwise seem experimental. The approach aims to ignite curiosity and foster creativity while ensuring students develop the knowledge and skills required for examination success. The curriculum is described as both joyful and rigorous, designed to nurture well-rounded individuals who can thrive in an ever-changing world.

Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and create purposeful learning environments. Innovative use of ICT in teaching, supported by the Microsoft partnership, means technology enhances rather than replaces direct instruction. Exceptional relationships and strong classroom atmosphere support effective learning.

Students with special educational needs and disabilities achieve well alongside their peers. Pupils achieve well, including those with SEND, suggesting that differentiation and support structures work effectively across the ability range.

At Key Stage 4, the curriculum becomes more traditional in structure. English Language, English Literature, Mathematics, and Combined Science are mandatory. Students can choose from Art, Business Studies, Computer Science, Dance, Design and Technology, Drama, Geography, History, ICT, Music, Physical Education, Product Design, Religious Studies, Social Science, Textiles, Travel and Tourism, and World Languages.

Safeguarding is effective, with clear systems for identifying and supporting vulnerable students. All pupils are exceptionally well prepared for life beyond school, reflecting a pastoral approach that extends beyond immediate concerns to longer-term development.

Students say they are happy in school. The mutual respect between staff and students creates an atmosphere where young people feel comfortable seeking help when needed. Peer support structures enable students to help each other, building a community where wellbeing is everyone's responsibility.

The personal development programme received an Outstanding rating from Ofsted, indicating that character education, spiritual, moral, social and cultural development, and preparation for citizenship are genuine strengths. The Futures programme integrates careers education with personal development, ensuring students understand the link between current choices and future opportunities.

The academy holds several wellbeing-related accreditations. The EAL Quality Mark at Gold level recognises excellence in supporting students with English as an additional language. The School of Sanctuary Award reflects its commitment to refugee and asylum-seeking students and families.

Theatre and Performance

Shireland Theatre School is the academy's flagship extracurricular programme, offering students opportunities to develop performance skills at a high level. In partnership with Birmingham Hippodrome through the Hippodrome Educational Network, students create major productions. Recent shows include Guys and Dolls, Peter Pan, Aladdin, Matilda, Mary Poppins, and Hairspray. Students attend professional shows at the Hippodrome and meet cast members, exploring pathways into the performing arts industry.

The Arts Aptitude Programme

The Arts Aptitude Programme accepts 28 students annually, offering enhanced provision alongside the full curriculum. Applicants must list Shireland as their first preference and complete a separate application process with interviews. This specialist pathway reflects the academy's commitment to developing artistic talent while maintaining academic breadth.

Sport and Outdoor Education

Sports facilities include a sports hall, MUGA (multi-use games area), tennis courts, and extensive outdoor areas with grass pitches, 3G astroturf, and paved surfaces. Dance studios provide professional-standard space for rehearsals and classes.

The Duke of Edinburgh Award programme forms part of the Extended Schools Programme, providing outdoor education and personal development opportunities at Bronze, Silver and Gold levels. Expeditions, skill development and volunteering combine to build resilience and independence.

The sixth form has launched a Post-16 Football Academy, combining elite-level training with academic studies. Students refine their skills, build fitness, and compete in official matches. Beyond physical training, the programme includes workshops on leadership, strategic thinking, nutrition, psychology, and mental wellbeing.

STEM and Innovation

As a Microsoft Showcase School, technology integration goes beyond using laptops in lessons. F1 in Schools offers STEM enrichment through the design and racing of miniature cars, combining engineering, aerodynamics, manufacturing and project management. Students compete at national level across curricular and co-curricular areas.

Computer Science, ICT and Product Design feature in the curriculum, with subject-based clubs extending learning for enthusiasts. The academy's focus on digital literacy prepares students for a technology-driven economy.

Debate and Leadership

Debate Mate develops oracy, critical thinking and confidence through competitive debating. Students learn to construct arguments, respond to opposition, and communicate persuasively. Leadership opportunities throughout the academy enable students to hone management skills and develop emotional intelligence.

Shireland Collegiate Academy is oversubscribed, with 619 applications for 248 Year 7 places in recent admissions data. This subscription ratio of 2.5 applications per place indicates significant demand, particularly given the academy's position as the top-ranked secondary school in Smethwick.

Year 7 Entry

Applications for September 2026 Year 7 entry are made through Sandwell Local Authority's online portal. Students from outside Sandwell apply through their own local authority but can list Shireland as a preference. The application deadline is 31 October 2025, with Offer Day on 2 March 2026.

Fair Banding assessments take place in November and December 2025. This process ensures the intake reflects the full ability range rather than skewing towards higher attaining students. The academy follows standard admissions criteria after banding: looked-after children, exceptional medical or social needs, siblings, then distance from the academy measured in a straight line.

The Year 7 Open Evening runs on 16 September 2025 from 4pm to 7pm. Families unable to attend can contact reception on 0121 558 8086 to arrange alternative visits during the school day.

Arts Aptitude Programme

Twenty-eight places are available annually for students demonstrating aptitude in the Arts. The separate application process opens alongside standard admissions, with a deadline of 29 September 2025. Interviews run from 13 October 2025, with outcomes confirmed before the local authority deadline of 31 October 2025.

To be considered, families must list Shireland as their first choice through the local authority application and complete the Arts Aptitude application form separately. Due to high demand, places cannot be offered unless this first-preference requirement is met.

Sixth Form Entry

Applications for sixth form entry are made directly to the academy through the Applicaa online system, which allows students to create an account, complete their application, and track progress in real-time. There is no fixed closing date, but early application secures earlier consultation appointments.

The process involves attending the November Open Evening, submitting an application, attending a 20-minute consultation with senior staff, and receiving a conditional offer based on predicted GCSE grades. Entry requirements vary by course, with subject-specific criteria published on the academy website. For students not meeting A-level entry requirements, Level 2 pathways provide routes to progress.

Oversubscription criteria prioritise looked-after children meeting academic requirements, those with exceptional needs, siblings, then distance. Transition Day in June allows offer-holders to experience sixth form before confirming places on results day.

Contact the Sixth Form team on 0121 558 8086 or email bbrogan@sca.shirelandcat.net for application queries.

The academy is located at Waterloo Road, Cape Hill, Smethwick, B66 4ND. Well-equipped classrooms and lecture theatre-style halls support different teaching approaches. The school day follows a structured timetable designed to maximise learning time.

Transport links serve the Waterloo Road site, with the academy accessible from across Sandwell and neighbouring areas. First Steps Nursery operates on site, providing early years provision for families seeking continuity from nursery onward.

Term dates and specific timing information are published on the academy website. For families requiring specific arrangements, direct contact with the academy provides the most accurate current information.

Oversubscription means distance matters. With 2.5 applications per place at Year 7, families need to live close to secure admission through the standard criteria. The academy does not publish last distance offered data, so interested families should check with Sandwell Council for historical patterns.

The distinctive KS3 curriculum may feel different. The Literacy for Life programme is nationally recognised and evidence-based, but students transferring mid-phase from schools with traditional subject teaching may need adjustment time. This integrated approach delays some subject specialisation until Key Stage 4.

A-level results are solid rather than spectacular. The Outstanding sixth form rating reflects provision, progress, and destinations rather than raw grade outcomes. Families seeking the highest grade profiles may compare with grammar schools or selective sixth forms, though this school offers opportunity to a broader range of students who might not access those options.

Arts Aptitude has a separate application process. Families interested in the 28 Arts Aptitude places must complete additional steps and meet early deadlines. Missing the 29 September registration deadline means waiting another year for this route.

Shireland Collegiate Academy delivers what it promises: a school where students are happy and achieve beyond their potential. The Outstanding ratings for behaviour, personal development, and sixth form provision reflect a culture of high expectations combined with genuine care for every student. The Progress 8 score of +0.38 demonstrates that students make significantly more progress than similar students in England, adding substantial value to their educational journeys.

Best suited to families in Smethwick and the surrounding area seeking a comprehensive school that combines academic ambition with strong pastoral support and innovative approaches to learning. The academy's distinctive curriculum, Theatre School partnership with Birmingham Hippodrome, and range of sixth form pathways provide opportunities that extend well beyond examination results. For students willing to embrace the ethos of aiming higher, seeing further, and being concerned for others, this is a school where they can thrive.

Entry remains the primary hurdle. With 619 applications for 248 places, proximity matters unless families pursue the Arts Aptitude route as an alternative pathway. Parents should use the FindMySchool Map Search to check their distance from the academy relative to historical admission patterns.