Mill View Primary School, located in Chester, Cheshire, has recently undergone its first inspection since becoming an academy. The inspection, conducted by Ofsted on May 8 and 9, 2024, resulted in an overall effectiveness rating of outstanding across all areas, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school is part of the Cheshire Academies Trust, with Jon Lenton serving as the executive headteacher and Steve Ellis as the CEO.
Pupils at Mill View Primary School exhibit a strong sense of pride in their school, benefiting from positive relationships with staff that foster their development into well-rounded individuals by the end of Year 6. The school emphasizes kindness and compassion, values that are deeply ingrained in its culture. The behavior of pupils is exemplary, contributing to a calm and purposeful learning environment. High attendance rates reflect the enjoyment pupils find in attending school and interacting with their peers.
The school has designed an ambitious curriculum that prioritizes essential knowledge and the sequence of subject content. Teachers skillfully select engaging activities that make learning meaningful and inspire pupils to excel. Regular assessments allow staff to address misconceptions promptly, ensuring that pupils achieve exceptionally well. Reading is a central focus, with a well-implemented phonics program that prepares children in the Nursery class for their subsequent education. Support is provided for pupils who struggle with phonics, enabling them to catch up quickly.
Mill View Primary School is committed to inclusivity, swiftly identifying the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and providing expert support to ensure they can access the curriculum alongside their peers. Pupils demonstrate positive attitudes towards learning, showing resilience and a willingness to tackle challenging tasks. This high expectation is evident from the early years, where children in the Nursery class are encouraged to persevere in their learning and play.
The school offers exceptional opportunities for personal development, including outdoor learning experiences in the school's forest and kitchen garden. These activities enhance learning across various subjects, such as when Year 3 pupils created minibeasts from natural materials. Real-life applications of learning are also emphasized, with Year 1 pupils running a smoothie bar to promote healthy eating and Year 6 pupils showcasing their history projects at a local museum.
Pupils at Mill View Primary School possess a well-developed sense of right and wrong, actively participating in initiatives to improve their school and community. The school council selects a charity each year to support, reinforcing the importance of social responsibility. The arts are highly valued, with opportunities for pupils to develop their singing, dancing, acting, and musical skills, including guitar lessons and participation in performances.
The local governing body and trustees provide expert support and challenge to the school while being mindful of staff workload. The trust offers extensive training opportunities that enhance staff subject knowledge, equipping them to teach the curriculum effectively. Safeguarding arrangements are robust, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
Overall, Mill View Primary School stands out for its commitment to excellence in education, fostering a nurturing environment where pupils thrive academically and personally. The school's dedication to high standards, inclusivity, and personal development positions it as a leading institution within the community.
