Derby Moor Spencer Academy Ofsted Inspection 2022

Her Majesty’s Inspector concluded that Derby Moor Spencer Academy ‘continues to be a good school.’ The inspection captured much more than this overall judgement, and the academy and trust are proud to share some of the wider findings with you.

During the inspection, the team recognised that ‘Leaders have reviewed the curriculum and ensured that it is both broad and ambitious for all pupils.’ Across the academy, everyone was also delighted to have recognition that ‘Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities are very well supported.’

The inspector praised the strong leadership at the academy, ‘Staff have high expectations of what all pupils can be and achieve. Pupils know that leaders will not give up on them. Leaders’ view is: Once a Derby moor pupil, always a Derby Moor pupil.’ Pupils also said that ‘they learn well in their lessons and recognise that teachers help them to achieve.’

Positive feedback around assessments and pupil knowledge was also emphasised, ‘Teachers use assessments well to check what pupils know and adapt teaching when needed.’ It was acknowledged that ‘teachers make sure that the most important knowledge is explicit and that pupils know it by using KAS (knowledge and skills) and WIN (what I know) sheets. These enable pupils to know and remember more.’

In the Sixth Form ‘Teachers provide high-quality explanations and opportunities for pupils to practice’ and ‘get a good grasp of challenging topics.’ Students in the sixth form use all parts of the school to study independently. They act as role models to younger pupils.’

The report also highlights the excellent personal development opportunities the students receive, ‘Leaders have placed great emphasis on promoting pupils’ wider development. There are well-planned opportunities for pupils to learn about the world of work. Leaders know how important employability is in the context of their community. They have weaved employability into many aspects of the curriculum to ensure that pupils have the best chance in life.’

Scott Doyle, Principal of Derby Moor Spencer Academy said:

‘It was a pleasure to invite the inspection team to our community in June and to showcase all the ingredients that make Derby Moor Spence Academy such a special place to work and to learn. We are pleased that the report captured many of the aspects we have been working on as a school. I hope it gives our entire community validation for the work they put in every day to ensure our young people have the best chances in life.’

Paul West, CEO of Spencer Academies Trust, was delighted with the inspection;

‘We are extremely proud of everyone at Derby Moor Spencer Academy. Scott and the team have done a fantastic job retaining their good status. As a Trust, we put high-quality teaching and learning in all that we do and Derby Moor Spencer Academy is a great example of this. Congratulations to all involved.’