Shireland Collegiate Academy has been recognised by the Secretary of State for Education for its ‘excellent outcomes’ for disadvantaged students at the end of the 2024/25 academic year, placing the school among the ‘very best nationally’. The commendation, sent in a formal letter to the Principal, praised the dedication of staff and the commitment of students, highlighting the Academy as an exemplar for others across the country.
The Secretary of State’s letter acknowledged the Academy’s role in fostering high achievement and encouraged it to act as a system leader by sharing effective practice, supporting collaboration, and helping raise standards across the sector.
The Academy, an active member of the West Midlands’ RISE networks, has previously been recognised for its leadership in the Department for Education’s RISE Attendance and Behaviour Hubs programme. As one of the first 21 lead schools, it has guided other schools and academy trusts in improving attendance, building positive behaviour cultures, and creating calmer, more focused classrooms.
Commenting on the recognition, Principal Thomas Daly said: Receiving this commendation was a wonderful recognition of the hard work and commitment of our staff. It also reflects what our students can achieve when ambition meets support and opportunity. Our staff work tirelessly to ensure every child can succeed and thrive at Shireland, and it is their dedication, alongside the resilience and effort of our students, that has made this possible. We are proud to be counted among the top-performing schools nationally.”
The recognition reinforces the Academy’s commitment to excellence, demonstrating how targeted support, collaboration and high expectations can transform student outcomes and inspire best practice beyond the school.
