Millside Spencer Academy celebrate glowing Ofsted report

In its first inspection under Section 5 of the Education Act 2005, Millside Spencer Academy was rated ‘Outstanding’ for Behaviour and Attitudes and Personal Development, with ‘Good’ judgements in Quality of Education, Leadership and Management, and Early Years Provision.

Inspectors were deeply impressed by the school’s nurturing, inclusive environment and high expectations for all pupils. The report opens with high praise: “Pupils at this school thrive in a nurturing and inclusive environment. They feel safe, cared for and proud to belong.”

A calm and purposeful atmosphere is evident across classrooms and shared spaces. Inspectors highlighted that “relationships between staff and pupils are a defining strength of the school”, and that pupils describe Millside as “just a happy place to be”.

The school’s ethos, known as the ‘Millside Way’ and its ‘SHINE’ values, was recognised as being fully embedded in day-to-day life. Pupils demonstrate exemplary behaviour and a genuine desire to do their best, showing curiosity, maturity, and respect in all they do.

Pupils take on meaningful responsibilities as school councillors, librarians, and community representatives. The report celebrates how “pupils recognise their role in helping others and giving back to the community”, reflecting the school’s distinctive sense of belonging and inclusion.

The school’s curriculum was described as broad, ambitious, and reflective of high standards. From the well-resourced Early Years provision to the upper years, learning is enriched by high-quality texts, strong home-school partnerships, and a clear prioritisation of reading. Inspectors noted that “books are at the heart of all learning”, and that pupils “enjoy reading and speak positively about the school library and reading initiatives, including the book vending machine.”

Pupils with SEND are well supported through “carefully adapted learning resources”, and inspectors commended the school’s “intelligent, fair, and highly effective” approach to helping all pupils succeed.

The report also praised the school’s innovative approach to curriculum design, highlighting how key knowledge is regularly revisited to support long-term understanding. Pupils are encouraged to think deeply, use subject-specific vocabulary, and apply what they have learned across a broad and ambitious curriculum. This approach helps ensure that learning is meaningful and memorable for all pupils.

Millside’s offer for personal development was judged to be Outstanding, with inspectors praising the school’s commitment to “developing empathy, cultural awareness and a sense of social responsibility.” Pupils benefit from a wide range of enrichment opportunities, including visits to the Holocaust Centre and a local military hospital. They also take part in sports clubs, talent shows, and community events, all of which build confidence and character.

The school’s ‘shine book parade’ and other celebration events highlight pupils’ achievements not only academically but in how they demonstrate kindness, integrity, and leadership.

Ofsted found that leaders have a strong understanding of the school’s strengths and areas for development, and that they are supported effectively by the Spencer Academies Trust and the local governing body. Staff wellbeing is clearly prioritised, and professional development opportunities are valued by the whole team.

Principal, Sophia Thorne, said: “We are thrilled that Ofsted recognised the positive relationships, care and love that defines Millside. This report reflects the ambition and dedication of our staff, the enthusiasm of our children and the strong partnerships we have with our families and the wider community. Creating Millside Magic is at the heart of everything we do and we’re so proud to see it shining through in every aspect of school life.”

Kate Green, Director of Primary Education for Spencer Academies Trust, added: “We are extremely proud of the children, staff and community at Millside. The report captures the journey since the school opened its doors and recognises a culture where expectations, a strong curriculum and a large sprinkle of Millside 'magic' enable all to SHINE. We now look forward to the next chapter as the school grows to capacity. Well done to everyone involved.”

Paul West, CEO of Spencer Academies Trust, also shared his congratulations: “Millside Spencer is our youngest academy in our Trust and has made astonishing progress in the short time that it has been open. Everyone across Spencer Academies Trust is delighted that Ofsted have recognised this. Sophia and her team, along with all students and parents should feel rightly proud.”

A huge congratulations to the entire Millside community on this wonderful achievement!