Pupils thrive at Birmingham Ormiston Academy (BOA). The school aims to allow all pupils to develop their talents. This is successful because leaders have created an effective and broad curriculum, alongside high-quality pastoral care. Within the core curriculum, the school has a focus on its high-quality arts provision, supporting pupils along dedicated pathways at key stages 4 and 5. Through well-developed industry links and an extensive enrichment programme, the school is successful in its vision to ‘unlock each pupil’s potential’. As one pupil said to inspectors, ‘I have done things I have never done before at BOA.’ High expectations for a high proportion of pupils are realised. Pupils support each other in their endeavours and work harmoniously towards ambitious curriculum goals. Pupils are happy at BOA thanks to the tolerant and inclusive ethos which leaders have established. As another pupil said to inspectors, ‘Everyone is allowed to be who they want to be.’ Pupils behave exceptionally well, and demonstrate care and respect for each other, and for visitors. Inspectors agreed that this is a strength of the school.