St Peter's Catholic School, Solihull: A State School with Faith at Its Heart

Faith has been woven into the fabric of secondary education in Solihull for over 120 years, from the Sisters of Our Lady of Compassion founding Olton Court Convent School in 1903 to Bishop Glancey High School's opening, and finally to their merger in 1974 that created St Peter's Catholic School. Today, the school stands as a thriving mixed-gender secondary serving approximately 1,300 students aged 11 to 18, with a sixth form added in 1994. This is a state school with no tuition fees. In March 2025, Ofsted inspected the school and judged it Outstanding in all areas: Quality of Education, Behaviour and Attitudes, Personal Development, Leadership and Management, and Sixth Form Provision. The school ranks 1,048th nationally for GCSE outcomes, placing it in the top 25% of schools in England (FindMySchool data), while A-level performance sits in the middle tier. An Ofsted inspection in March 2025 confirmed the school's standing as a beacon of Catholic education in the Midlands, operating under the Our Lady and All Saints Catholic Multi Academy Company.

The school sits on Whitefields Road in the Blossomfield district, a location that carries the history of two predecessor institutions. The campus blends periods spanning decades, with spaces that have witnessed generations of pupils. Above all, the school's identity centres on its Catholic mission: Faith is Our Foundation. This is not merely a slogan but a genuine foundation that shapes daily life. Catholic teaching permeates lessons, pastoral care, and whole-school gatherings. Students participate actively in regular school Masses, with opportunities to lead through readings, choir contributions, or other meaningful roles. The chapel provides a dedicated space for reflection and worship, serving as a spiritual heart for the community.

Mr Stuart Shelton has led the school as Headteacher since September 2022, having previously served elsewhere in secondary education. His appointment as a former pupil himself underscores the school's deep community roots. Under his leadership, the school has continued its trajectory of improvement and expanded its physical infrastructure. In January 2026, a brand-new two-storey building opened, housing modern dining facilities, additional teaching classrooms, and support spaces. A multi-use games area (MUGA) upgrade complements this investment, benefiting both curricular and extracurricular provision. These developments reflect confidence in the school's future and a commitment to enhancing the student experience.

Behaviour standards are high. The school maintains firm expectations around attendance, punctuality, uniform standards, and conduct. Students describe the atmosphere as warm and welcoming, with staff who know them individually and celebrate achievements consistently. The pastoral structure ensures regular contact through tutor groups and house systems, creating multiple layers of support. Discipline combines firmness with genuine care, helping students understand that high standards serve their long-term wellbeing and success.

GCSE Performance

In the most recent GCSE cycle, the school achieved an Attainment 8 score of 52.6, indicating solid overall achievement. The school ranks 1,048th in England for GCSE performance (FindMySchool ranking), placing it in the top 25% nationally. Locally, it ranks 5th among Solihull secondaries. This positions the school in what is termed "national strong" tier, reflecting above-average performance compared to England overall. Progress 8 data shows a score of 0.32, indicating that students make above-average progress from their starting points during their secondary education. The school entered 26% of students in the English Baccalaureate pathway, demonstrating commitment to broad, balanced curriculum choice. With three-quarters of the cohort achieving grade 5 or above in English and Mathematics (the standard considered "a strong pass"), the school demonstrates consistent attainment across the core pillars.

A-Level Performance

Sixth form students achieved strong results at A-level, with 60% of grades at A*-B, and 11% achieving the top grade of A*. The school ranks 669th nationally for A-level outcomes (FindMySchool data), placing it in the middle tier of England schools nationally. Locally, the sixth form ranks 5th among Solihull schools. Nearly one-quarter of grades were at A or A*, reflecting strong performance in the upper ranges. The fact that four in ten students achieve B grades demonstrates consistent quality across subjects. Mathematics, sciences, and humanities feature prominently among A-level cohorts, with students progressing to competitive universities as a result.

Curriculum provision follows the National Curriculum with intentional enhancements. Students in Key Stages 3 and 4 study a broad range of subjects including English, Mathematics, Science, Religious Education, Geography, History, Spanish or French, Physical Education, PSHE, Computing, Art, Drama, and Design Technology. The school has invested in science provision following its designation as a Specialist Science College, ensuring laboratories are well-equipped and staff demonstrate subject expertise. Religious Education is compulsory throughout and is taught using the Edexcel specification, covering Catholic Christianity, Judaism, and ethical themes through ability-grouped classes to ensure accessibility and challenge at appropriate levels.

At Key Stage 4, the vast majority of students follow the English Baccalaureate (EBacc) curriculum, selecting additional humanities or modern languages. Students also choose optional subjects from Art and Design, Business Studies, Computer Science, Drama, Music, Physical Education, and Sociology as GCSEs, or alternatively applied qualifications in areas like Sport, Business, and Health and Social Care. Setting by ability operates in English, Mathematics, Science, and Religious Education, allowing targeted teaching. Other subjects are taught in mixed-ability groups, fostering peer learning and inclusive classrooms.

Teaching is described as structured and ambitious. Staff plan engaging lessons and maintain high expectations. The school emphasises not just examination success but the development of communication skills, critical thinking, and resilience. Drama and Music form part of the core offer, with every pupil exposed to creative practice regardless of prior attainment. The curriculum is enriched by a wide range of trips and residentials, including visits to Bletchley Park and the Harry Potter Exhibition, French and Spanish language trips, ski trips, yearly retreats to The Briars, a Lourdes pilgrimage, and expeditions to destinations like Tanzania, Krakow, Madrid, and Iceland. Year 12 students in the Eco Committee have the opportunity to travel to Nepal, combining environmental awareness with global citizenship.

University Destinations

In 2024, 59% of A-level leavers progressed to university, with 2% continuing to further education, 3% entering apprenticeships, and 27% moving into employment. This balance reflects the school's provision of diverse post-16 pathways suited to different aspirations. The sixth form maintains strong links to higher education institutions and provides comprehensive UCAS support, including personal guidance on applications and university selection. Students benefit from careers advice throughout their sixth form years, helping them navigate competitive university entrance. Medical and scientific pathways are notably popular, reflecting both the strength of science teaching and student aptitude in those areas.

Sixth Form Progression

The sixth form is popular among Year 11 students, with the vast majority progressing internally to Year 12. This retention speaks to the quality of relationships built and trust in the sixth form provision. Entry criteria for sixth form include achieving grade 5 or above in GCSE English and Mathematics, alongside subject-specific requirements for certain A-level choices (typically grade 6 or higher in the subject). The transition from main school to sixth form is carefully managed through dedicated Year 11-12 transition sessions, ensuring students feel prepared for the increased independence and academic rigour of post-16 study.

The enrichment programme at St Peter's demonstrates the school's commitment to holistic development. Over 150 students are engaged in some form of extracurricular music, reflecting the vibrancy of the Performing Arts faculty. The department operates an extensive calendar featuring Four Choirs, a String Ensemble, Folk Band, Jazz Band, Guitars, Ukuleles, and a recently launched full School Orchestra. These ensembles serve students of all ability levels, from beginners to advanced musicians. The Sixth Form Enrichment Band, led by professional bassist Vic Cox, rehearses separately and delivers termly concerts. Formal concerts occur at least once per term, with Chamber Concerts held in October and February in the dedicated Theatre and Liturgy space. Biannually, over 50 students embark on week-long international concert tours, performing to local audiences in destinations such as Strasbourg, Salzburg, and York.

Drama & Performance

The school stages its signature musical biannually, with recent productions including the rock musical We Will Rock You. This provides a platform for hundreds of students to gain performance experience, whether as cast members, in the orchestra, or in technical and production roles. Drama is taught from Key Stage 3 through to A-level, with GCSE students studying the AQA specification and A-level students engaging with practitioner-led texts and performance theory. The drama faculty works collaboratively with music to create ambitious productions. The Main Hall (364 m²) with stage and retractable seating hosts assemblies and larger performances, while a dedicated 72 m² dance studio and drama room equipped for theatrical productions provide specialist spaces for rehearsal and smaller performances.

Academic Clubs & STEM

For students inclined towards intellectual pursuits, the school offers Geography Club, Physics Club, Maths Club, and Coding Club. Year 12 students can participate in the Eco Committee, which combines environmental learning with real-world impact. The school engages students in the Catholic Schools Programme, which includes debates and mathematical challenges that develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Design Technology sessions run regularly, offering hands-on project work. The library and IT suites support independent study and digital learning across the curriculum. Students participate in competitions and challenges that foster teamwork and camaraderie.

Sports & Physical Development

Pupils engage in various sports including football, netball, basketball, fencing, and boxing. The Sports Hall (633 m²) with flexible floor layouts accommodates badminton, indoor football, and other activities. The Gymnasium (262 m²) offers a large, open space for gymnastics, dance, and movement activities. Physical Education is compulsory and taught in ability-set classes, with single-sex options available alongside mixed groups. Through the Catholic Schools Programme, students participate in sporting events that emphasise discipline, teamwork, and resilience. Football teams compete in national competitions such as the English Schools' Football Association (ESFA) cups, advancing through rounds and competing against other ambitious schools. The school has been recognised for sporting excellence, ranking among the top 200 sports schools in the UK.

Faith & Community

Students play active roles in regular school Masses and other liturgical events. Reading duties, choir participation, and other meaningful contributions help pupils deepen their understanding of Catholic traditions. The Catholic Pupil Profile — centred on virtues such as faithfulness, honesty, and service — informs the approach to enrichment. Mission Week each year brings Catholic Social Teaching to life through school-wide focus and action. The school fosters a sense of belonging and shared purpose rooted in Christian values.

Entry to Year 7

St Peter's operates as a popular, oversubscribed secondary school. In recent admissions, the school received 721 applications for 203 Reception-equivalent places (equivalent data for Year 7), reflecting strong demand from the local Catholic community. The school is non-selective; admissions follow the standard local authority coordinated process. After looked-after children and those with EHCPs naming the school, places are allocated by proximity to the school gates. The oversubscription ratio of 3.55 applications per place (primary entry) indicates that securing entry is competitive. Families should note that whilst the school is popular with Catholic families from across Solihull, admissions are not restricted to Catholics; the school welcomes students of all faiths and none, though the Catholic ethos is central to daily life.

Entry to Sixth Form

Sixth form entry requires achieving grade 5 or above in GCSE English and Mathematics, with most A-level subjects requiring a grade 6 or higher in the subject. The deadline for sixth form applications (as stated on the school website) is typically in late January. Most Year 11 students progress internally, as the quality of relationships and established community encourage continuation. External applicants are welcome and are assessed on their GCSE grades and ability to meet subject prerequisites. Transition from main school to sixth form is carefully planned, with dedicated sessions in summer term and September.

School Day & Practical Arrangements

The school day runs from 8:50 a.m. to 3:20 p.m. Students wear school uniform, with sixth form students following a distinct dress code. There is no wraparound care (breakfast or after-school clubs) published on the school website; families should contact the school directly for information about any support services. The school provides transport facilitation through the local authority for eligible students. Lunch is served daily in the newly refurbished dining facilities (opened January 2026), which now accommodate the growing cohort comfortably.

Pastoral support is a genuine strength. Every student is part of a tutor group of 6–8 pupils, meeting daily with their form tutor for PSHE, personal development, and relationship-building. Form tutors know their students well and provide the first point of contact for parents. The school employs dedicated SEND staff under the leadership of the SENCo (Special Educational Needs Coordinator), Mrs K Wolfe. Approximately 14% of students have SEN support, ranging from mild dyslexia support to more complex needs. The school holds the Inclusion Quality Mark, reflecting its commitment to removing barriers and supporting all learners. The school operates a chapel that serves as a space for prayer and reflection during the school day.

Wellbeing is treated seriously. The school offers access to counselling support and has invested in staff training on mental health awareness. Personal Development provision spans pastoral care, PSHE, and explicit teaching of the Catholic Pupil Profile. Students participate in activities aimed at building resilience, self-awareness, and healthy relationships. Anti-bullying procedures are in place, with staff trained to recognise and respond swiftly. The school's recent participation in "Time to Thrive" sessions (e.g., with Streetwise Defence) demonstrates investment in student confidence and safety.

The school occupies a campus in the Blossomfield district of Solihull, accessed via Whitefields Road. The site has undergone recent expansion, with a modern new building opened in January 2026 adding teaching spaces and dining facilities. A upgraded MUGA (multi-use games area) provides flexible sports facilities. The campus includes a Main Hall (364 m²) with stage, Gymnasium (262 m²), Sports Hall (633 m²), Dance Studio (72 m²), Chapel, library, IT suites, and dedicated subject spaces for science, technology, and performing arts. Public transport links to the school are available through local bus services; families should check local transport websites for specific routes. Parking at school is limited and managed by the local authority; visitors are advised to use public transport where possible.

Catholic ethos is genuine and pervasive. The school's Catholic identity shapes the curriculum, pastoral approach, and daily rhythms. Religious Education is compulsory; students attend regular Masses; and Gospel values are explicit in whole-school messaging. This is a strength for families who value Catholic education and wish their children to engage deeply with faith. For families uncomfortable with explicit religious teaching or practice, this may not be the right environment. Parents of non-Catholic pupils should be aware that their children will participate in Catholic learning and worship as part of the school community.

Oversubscription is significant. With over three applications for every place, entry is far from guaranteed. Families attracted to the school should understand that proximity to school and demonstrated commitment to Catholic education (where applicable) will be the main allocation criteria. Alternative secondary schools in Solihull should be explored as backup choices.

Recent expansion is ongoing. The new building completed in January 2026 represents major investment, which is positive. However, the school is managing rising cohort numbers, and spaces may feel busier than before. Parents should verify facilities and staffing arrangements as the school continues to absorb additional students.

A-level provision is solid but mid-range. While sixth form results are respectable, the school is not in the elite tier for post-16 study. Students pursuing highly competitive degree courses (e.g., Oxbridge, medical school) will benefit from strong internal support but should be aware that A-level grades achieved reflect a broadly middle-performing sixth form context.

St Peter's Catholic School offers a genuine Catholic education combined with solid academic outcomes and a warm, inclusive community feel. The school is oversubscribed because families value its faith-centred approach, its pastoral care, and its broad enrichment programme. For Catholic families seeking a state-funded secondary where their child's faith will be nurtured alongside academic progress, and for families drawn to the school's community ethos, St Peter's delivers well. Results place it above the England average, sixth form retention is high, and students speak warmly of their experience. The school's recent expansion demonstrates confidence in its future. Best suited to students within the Solihull Catholic feeder network, and to families whose values align with the school's Catholic mission. The main challenge is securing a place in the first instance. For those who do, a supportive, values-driven secondary education awaits.