Castleward Spencer celebrate 'Outstanding' report after first ever Ofsted visit
Staff and pupils at Castleward Spencer Academy are celebrating this week after receiving a phenomenal report in which they were awarded ‘Outstanding’ in all categories of their very first Ofsted inspection.
Castleward Spencer currently teaches pupils from Early Years through to Year 3, after opening three years ago, as part of Derby City Council’s development plan for education in the Castleward area of Derby.
The academy has since flourished year on year, as demonstrated through their exceptional inspection which took place in July 2024.
The report opens: “Castleward Spencer Academy is a haven for all pupils. As soon as the doors open each morning they start to learn.”
The “broad and rich” curriculum was also commended, with inspectors highlighting how it has been “crafted with exceptional care”. Staff were also recognised for delivering the curriculum with expertise.
The school’s expectations for pupils’ behaviour were described as “second to none” and it was noted how “leaders take time to understand how pupils are feeling” so that “pupils learn to describe their emotions [with a] range of strategies at their fingertips to help them when they do not feel ready to learn.”
The care and attention towards building positive and safe relationships with pupils was also highlighted: “Pupils trust the adults in school because they show high levels of care for them. They are happy, safe and secure.”
The report further celebrates the care provided by staff at the academy, with inspectors expressing how “leaders are passionate that each and every pupil will experience success” and acknowledging how staff “respond intelligently to the ever-changing needs of the pupils that this new school serves.”
The robust systems for identifying pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) at Castleward were also observed, with inspectors commenting how the school “has an excellent understanding of the best way to support these pupils… Carefully designed and bespoke adaptations are made so that pupils with SEND can access the curriculum. Pupils with SEND make strong progress and do well.”
As part of the visit, inspectors also look at parent feedback through discussions and responses to online surveys. The report notes how the academy is held in high regard by parents, commenting that “parents and carers appreciate the kindness and practical help the school offers to them and their children” and drawing on one parent inspectors spoke to who summarised these views when they said: “I love the atmosphere that this school has created and couldn’t be happier that my child is attending this wonderful school.”
Principal, Lindsay Trail, was delighted with the glowing report: “It has been an honour and a privilege to lead Castleward Spencer from the day of opening through to its first Ofsted inspection. The hard work and commitment of our staff have enabled us to create a bespoke education for the children. This in turn means that they have developed a real love for learning, which is evident for all to see. We are delighted to be awarded outstanding and would like to thank the many families and professionals who have supported the school over the first three years.”
Director of Primary Education, Kate Green, added: “We are delighted for the children, families and staff at Castleward Spencer. This school is a shining example of how a culture of excellence can build a true love for learning. We agree that it is the ‘best of the best’ and couldn’t be prouder.”
Paul West, CEO of Spencer Academies Trust, also shared: “Castleward Spencer Academy is a remarkable school, I’m delighted that the commitment to excellence that pervades all aspects of the school has been recognised by Ofsted in their first ever inspection. The Report captures the dedication of Castleward’s entire staff team, and the recognition of their achievement is much deserved.”
A huge congratulations to all at Castleward Spencer on this incredible achievement!
