Millbank Academy, located in London, received an outstanding rating during its inspection on May 22-23, 2013. This was the school's first inspection since converting to an academy in September 2012. The inspection highlighted the exceptional achievement of pupils, who, despite starting with considerable support needs, made remarkable progress, achieving standards well above expectations by the end of Year 6. The Early Years Foundation Stage was noted for effectively fostering children's confidence and independence, contributing to their eagerness to learn.
The quality of teaching at Millbank Academy was also rated as outstanding. Teachers maintained high expectations, encouraging pupils to tackle challenging tasks with determination. The school effectively supported pupils from various backgrounds, including those with disabilities and special educational needs, ensuring they received tailored assistance to meet their individual needs. Pupils demonstrated outstanding behavior and attitudes towards learning, taking pride in their school and contributing positively to its atmosphere. The school fostered a culture of high aspiration, providing a rich and stimulating learning experience through a diverse curriculum that included art, music, physical education, and foreign languages.
Leadership and management were recognized as outstanding, with school leaders demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement and high expectations. The governing body played a crucial role in supporting and challenging the school, contributing to the overall success of the institution. The inspection team observed a range of lessons and support sessions, noting the effective use of resources and the collaborative approach among staff, which enhanced the quality of teaching and learning.
The school provided a safe and nurturing environment, with pupils expressing a strong sense of belonging and pride in their school. Attendance levels were above average, and the importance of regular attendance was emphasized. The school had effective measures in place to address any concerns related to behavior and safety, with rare instances of bullying being dealt with promptly and effectively.
Millbank Academy's commitment to equal opportunities was evident, ensuring that all pupils had access to a wide range of activities and support. The school actively promoted spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development through various trips and visits that enriched the curriculum. The leadership team was praised for its thorough review of the school's work and its proactive approach to addressing any gaps in performance.
The inspection concluded that while the school was performing exceptionally well, there was still room for improvement, particularly in providing more opportunities for the most able pupils to excel in their writing. Overall, Millbank Academy was recognized as a highly effective institution that successfully met the needs of its pupils, preparing them well for their future educational journeys. The school’s dedication to fostering a positive learning environment and its focus on continuous improvement were key factors in its outstanding rating.
