Ashwood Spencer Academy, located in Derby, received a positive inspection report following its evaluation on February 14 and 15, 2023. The school was rated as good in all areas, including overall effectiveness, quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. This was the first inspection under the Education Act 2005 since the school joined the Spencer Academies Trust in November 2018.
The inspection highlighted the high aspirations that leaders have for all pupils, encouraging them to dream and achieve. Pupils demonstrated determination, resilience, and ambition, expressing enjoyment in their learning environment. Many pupils reported a positive attitude towards school, with one stating their excitement for school days and the learning opportunities they present. The school fosters a supportive atmosphere where pupils feel safe and know they can seek help if needed. Instances of bullying are addressed effectively by staff, contributing to a positive school culture.
Pupils are engaged in a variety of subjects and activities, with leaders ensuring that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, receive the support they need to succeed. The school offers a range of extracurricular clubs, which pupils actively participate in, enhancing their interests and skills. Opportunities for leadership development, such as roles in the school council and library monitoring, are also available, promoting personal growth.
The report commended the school for its improvements in curriculum quality and overall provision for pupils. While pupils generally achieve well, there were noted exceptions in the outcomes for those at the end of key stage two last year. Leaders have since made adjustments to the curriculum and provided necessary support for pupils who join after Year three. The curriculum emphasizes vocabulary development and connects learning across subjects, allowing teachers to plan effective learning experiences.
In reading and mathematics, the school has established systems for assessing pupils' knowledge, which are used effectively to inform teaching. However, these assessment practices are less developed in some foundation subjects, making it challenging for teachers to gauge pupils' understanding and tailor instruction accordingly. Leaders are encouraged to enhance assessment strategies across all subjects to ensure consistent monitoring of pupil progress.
Reading is prioritized within the school, with a systematic approach to phonics instruction. Staff are well-trained, and support is provided for pupils who may struggle. The school promotes a love of reading through initiatives like the 'reader of the week' award and a well-stocked library. Pupils are motivated to read and share their experiences with family members.
The school effectively supports pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they can access the same curriculum as their peers whenever possible. The positive learning environments created for these pupils contribute to their success and happiness. Staff maintain high expectations for behavior, and pupils understand the behavior system in place, which they perceive as fair.
Leaders and staff are committed to knowing their pupils and families well, working closely to promote attendance. Despite these efforts, some pupils remain persistently absent, which negatively impacts their learning. Leaders are urged to explore additional strategies to improve attendance rates.
The school provides numerous opportunities for personal development, including fundraising for charities and engaging in community activities. Staff feel valued and supported in their roles, contributing to a positive work environment. The well-being and workload of staff are prioritized, fostering a collaborative atmosphere.
The safeguarding arrangements at Ashwood Spencer Academy are effective, with staff receiving regular training to identify and respond to potential risks. The school ensures that pupils learn about safety, including online safety, through the curriculum.
In summary, Ashwood Spencer Academy demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education and supportive environment for its pupils. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in attendance and assessment practices in foundation subjects, the overall effectiveness of the school is commendable. The leadership team is dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring that all pupils can thrive academically and personally.
