Kimichi School School in Acocks Green, Birmingham

Reviews

1. Izobel Ward ★★★★★

   Before I came here, I’d been out of education for two years and was in an awful state — mentally, emotionally, and academically. I’d lost all sense of direction and self-belief. But from the moment I arrived, I was welcomed with open arms, supported in ways I’d never experienced, and treated with kindness, respect, and genuine care. The staff didn’t just help me catch up — they built a space for me to thrive. They went as far as putting a subject on the curriculum just for me because they saw something in me worth nurturing. That subject changed everything. I’d never been encouraged like that before, and it gave me the confidence and tools to believe I could have a future. They nurtured me, challenged me, and above all, they loved me. That’s not something you can fake. This school believed in me so much that I started to believe in myself — and now, I’m proud to say I am studying acting at university in LONDON. That would never have happened without them. While I was here, I had the honour of being school captain and vice school captain.— something I never thought I’d be capable of. That role helped me grow even more, and I’m still proud of everything we achieved together as a school community. They nominated me for a young artist of the year award and I won it!! This school didn’t just educate me. It saved me

   1 year ago
2. Maddie Walker ★★★★★

   Iv been a student at this school for 5 years now leaving in September. All staff have shown me so much support and helped me become the person I am today. Forever will be grateful for everyone at kimichi school and will never forget the memories i have made and experienced. I will always have a place in my heart for kimichi forever and ever and I will make sure to visit. The photo below shows how much the teachers care for us and how proud of us they are. thanks to kimichi school I went from being home schooled and hating school to becoming school captain and loving it. thank you kimichi school ❤️

   1 year ago
3. Claire Black ★★★★★

   After a really difficult experience in previous years, Kimichi has turned my son’s school experience around completely, not only his education but it’s had such a positive impact on all areas of his and our lives. The staff are fabulous. The children are the most wonderful small humans in the making you will ever come across and I put this firmly down to Kimichi’s way of doing things. I’m not quite sure how they do it but I think this school is powered by some kind of magic. To say we’re delighted to be a part of this small community is an understatement!

   1 year ago

1. Lawson Goodwin ★★★★★

   I couldn't recommend Kimichi School enough. The commitment each teacher gives to every single student is truly impeccable. I was a student there until 2020, and I had a brilliant time. I learned everything I needed to become a productive adult in society, and I carry those lessons with me every day. I still make a point to do one small good deed each day because that was part of our daily tasks. I also strive to carry myself with manners, pride, and respect—values that were reinforced by the way the teachers treated us. Since leaving, I’ve entered the trades, and Kimichi’s staff—particularly Sally, and Chris—continued to support me, helping me transition into college and advocating for my needs when I faced challenges. Their ongoing support has been invaluable. I could write endlessly about how Kimichi School has helped shape the man I am today. I am genuinely grateful for the education, values, and support I received. Thank you, Kimichi School, for everything. Keep up the great work!

   1 year ago
2. Hannah Hames ★★★★★

   Kimichi is a very special place, we still can't quite believe we found it. Put simply it has transformed our son's understanding of what learning is all about. He is so much happier and loves the range of subjects taught, the democratic nature of the school and the collective responsibility they have to ensure the school is tidy and organised - everyone plays their part. The music education he's receiving is superb, and the trips, residentials and projects provide a wonderful range of opportunities and experiences. We can't fault it, what an amazing place.

   almost 5 years ago
3. David O'Grady ★★★★★

   Felt compelled to review after seeing the recent negative comments below. I appreciate everybody has an opinion, but a spiteful rant does not amount to a fair and honest review and certainly doesn’t help readers form a reasonable opinion. My experience and circumstances are incredibly similar to the recent reviewer (Martin) and I also note that there is a common theme amongst many of the reviews…. Compassion, encouragement, support, and the relief to discover such a wonderful place. My own daughter is flourishing under the support and guidance offered by Sally and the team and we are in complete awe of the incredible lengths they will go to ensure to ensure your child is in the best place. As parents we are so incredibly grateful for all that Kimichi School offers and would not hesitate to recommend this absolute gem of a school to anybody.

   almost 5 years ago

1. Toni Holt ★★★★★

   Like other recent reviews, I feel compelled to submit a review that is fair and honest. I feel that the 'keyboard warrior', who has a right to their own opinion, does not echo the views of other parents and pupils. My experience and situation are incredibly similar to the other recent reviewers, and my review absolutely duplicates the common theme amongst many of the latest reviews submitted. Understanding, encouragement, and support, combined with the magical combination of a practical and academic education. Life skills are as important as academic qualifications and this school has a lovely balance. My Son hated school previously and spent a considerable time in and out of education establishments, he has been at Kimichi for about 18 months and I do not think he has missed one day. For the first time ever - my Son has a school that BELIEVES in him and his abilities and that makes such a difference to a child who had a low self-esteem. Kimichi are trying, above and beyond to ensure he succeeds in whatever path he should choose. He is now happy to go on school trips (something that was not a consideration before) and now has the potential to achieve some qualifications, where the situation he was in before this seemed hopeless. I have absolutely nothing negative to say about Sally and the rest of the staff and would not hesitate to recommend this school to anybody.

   almost 5 years ago
2. Martin Creese ★★★★★

   First and foremost this is an amazing school . It confounds expectations in a good way and once you understand that what they achieve is not done by an academic production line but by empowering children , engaging then and enthusing them with so much you get Kimichi . They build confidence in their pupils , a broad understanding of life skills that give them the foundation allied to academic results to approach adult life . In my case a child who was a school refuser at state school now is excited to go to school each day . A withdrawn child now full of confidence . This is life changing for both and to Sally and all the staff at Kimichi , thank you

   almost 5 years ago
3. Jenny Yates ★★★★★

   This captures the true essence of Kimichi School. Smiling happy pupils & staff alike. Our son has attended for the past year & has never been happier. Staff go above & beyond both inside & outside of the working day & truly have given our family nothing but support & understanding at all times. He has attended amazing life changing trips to Iceland & the Peak District which has been an accomplishment in itself. Our child had a pretty bleak future education wise prior to starting, but after a year of Kimichi we couldn’t be prouder of all that he has & will achieve in the future under their tutelage. Academic achievement aside, (which he is excelling in music may I add) & more importantly to us, we have a happy teenager who has grown in confidence who feels supported & respected! He is always treated as an individual rather than a statistic & we can not recommend Kimichi School enough. We can offer nothing but thanks & very high praise to all of the hardworking dedicated staff who go above & beyond every single day. They truly are the best.

   more 7 years ago

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