Millfield Science and Performing Arts College, located in Thornton-Cleveleys, Lancashire, was inspected on July 12 and 13, 2022. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with consistent ratings across various aspects including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. The school has maintained its good rating since the previous inspection in May 2017.
Pupils expressed that they feel happy and safe at school, enjoying social interactions during breaks and forming friendships easily. They understand and adhere to the high expectations set by school leaders regarding behavior, demonstrating good conduct throughout the school environment. The commitment of governors and leaders to high standards has resulted in most pupils achieving well across a diverse range of subjects, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, as well as disadvantaged pupils.
The school fosters a culture of care and respect among pupils, who are knowledgeable about each other's differences and actively work to ensure that everyone feels valued and included. This supportive environment allows pupils to express themselves freely, and they are confident that staff will address any incidents of bullying promptly and effectively. The school offers a comprehensive careers curriculum, which includes various opportunities such as visits, events, work experience, and guidance from independent careers professionals. Pupils also engage in extracurricular activities, including clubs and sports.
Governors and senior leaders have established a clear and ambitious vision for the school, ensuring that every pupil has access to a broad and challenging curriculum. At key stage four, pupils have a wide selection of subjects to choose from, with an increasing number opting for those that contribute to the English Baccalaureate. The organization of subject curriculums is effective, providing teachers with clarity on essential knowledge and the sequence in which it should be taught. Staff demonstrate a strong understanding of their subjects and typically select activities that reinforce and build upon essential knowledge.
Teachers regularly assess pupils' learning, identifying gaps in knowledge and misconceptions. In most cases, they address these gaps before introducing new material. However, in a minority of subjects, some teachers may advance pupils to new learning prematurely, which can hinder progress. Most pupils are confident readers, engaging with a variety of texts across subjects. Leaders promptly identify those who struggle with reading and provide effective support, enabling them to catch up quickly.
The school effectively identifies pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, equipping staff with the necessary information and training to meet their needs. Teachers adapt their delivery of the curriculum to ensure that these pupils cover the same content as their peers, resulting in good achievement for this group. Pupils exhibit politeness in class, and their learning is rarely disrupted by poor behavior. They arrive on time and prepared for lessons.
Leaders actively seek the views of pupils, including those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs. The pupil council collaborates with leaders to design school improvement plans. The careers guidance provided prepares pupils well for their future educational and career paths. Staff appreciate the support from leaders regarding their well-being and manageable workloads.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, with staff trained to recognize and report any concerns regarding pupil safety. Leaders ensure that any issues are addressed promptly, including referrals to external agencies when necessary. Pupils are educated about various safety risks, including online dangers, and feel comfortable seeking help from staff when needed.
To improve further, leaders should ensure that all pupils have secured the essential prior knowledge before introducing new concepts, particularly in the minority of subjects where this is currently not the case.
