Brackensdale Spencer Academy, located in Derby, has recently undergone an inspection that highlighted its strong performance across various areas. The school, which is part of the Spencer Academies Trust, is led by Principal Joanna McGregor and has shown significant improvement since its previous inspection. The quality of education, behavior and attitudes, and personal development have all been rated as good, while leadership and management, as well as early years provision, have been rated as outstanding.
The school fosters an environment where pupils feel valued and included, promoting a love for learning and strong relationships among peers. High expectations are set for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. This commitment to inclusivity is evident in the school’s SEND enhanced resource provision, which supports pupils with complex needs. The positive relationships between staff and students contribute to a safe and happy school atmosphere, where kindness and empathy are encouraged.
Brackensdale Spencer Academy has implemented a highly ambitious curriculum that is well-structured and tailored to meet the diverse needs of its pupils. The curriculum design has been praised for helping students develop a strong understanding of their subjects, despite some challenges in reflecting this in published outcomes. The school places a strong emphasis on reading, with effective strategies in place to ensure that pupils build a solid foundation in literacy from the early years. Children in Nursery and Reception benefit from a well-designed environment that caters to their developmental needs, and they engage in activities that stimulate their interests.
The school’s leadership has been recognized for its exceptional quality, driving rapid and sustainable improvements across all areas. Staff receive high-quality training, which enables them to deliver the curriculum effectively and adapt resources for pupils with additional needs. Regular assessments help identify and address any misconceptions in learning promptly.
While the overall behavior in the school is positive, there are instances where a small number of pupils may not focus on their learning as effectively as they could. The school is aware of this and is working to ensure that its behavior management system is applied consistently across all staff. Attendance rates are closely monitored, and the school has effective systems in place to support improvement where necessary.
Pupils are encouraged to develop leadership skills through various roles, such as reading leaders and anti-bullying ambassadors, and they demonstrate a clear understanding of diversity and equality. The wide range of extracurricular clubs and activities available helps nurture their talents and interests.
The inspection concluded that while the school is performing well, there are areas for further development. Specifically, opportunities for pupils to deepen their understanding in writing and problem-solving need to be enhanced to ensure that all students achieve their full potential. The school is committed to addressing these areas and continues to focus on providing a high-quality education for all its pupils.
Overall, Brackensdale Spencer Academy has made significant strides in its educational provision, creating a supportive and ambitious learning environment that prioritizes the needs of all students. The leadership team’s dedication to continuous improvement and the positive relationships within the school community contribute to its ongoing success.
