Millside Spencer Academy officially opens new school building

The school opened to students for the 2022-23 school year in a temporary learning village while construction was ongoing. The project was designed and managed by Arc Partnership and built by Morgan Sindall Construction, making it the fourth Spencer academy created through collaboration among the Trust, Morgan Sindall, and various local authorities.

Pupils and representatives enjoyed pizza and ice cream to commemorate the occasion. After the ribbon cutting, guests were taken on a tour of the new school by its resident experts: students in Years 5 and 6. The guides were proud to share their new school and excited for the ongoing projects, including sports fields, a forest school and a library.

Both educators and children are thrilled to be in the new school and eager to make the most of the space. The excitement has yet to wear off for many teachers, and visitors from Nottinghamshire County Council were impressed by the peaceful atmosphere for learning.

Principal Sophia Thorne said, “We could not be happier with our new building, which has been designed with children at its heart. The specialist teaching spaces, on-site woodland and outdoor areas make it a stunning environment for both staff and children! Thanks to the dedication of Morgan Sindall, Arc Partnership and Nottinghamshire County Council alongside the support and vision of Spencer Academies Trust and the Millside team we have opened a school which will inspire our children for years to come. After 12 months of watching the building work from our Learning Village it feels like a dream to finally be here.”

Director of Primary Education Angela O’Brien, OBE said, “It’s been a thrilling start to the school year at Millside Spencer Academy as the children have finally moved into their new building. The thoughtful design and beautiful spaces make for an ideal learning environment that will serve the community of East Leake as it continues to grow.”

CEO Paul West said, “Once again, our partnership with Arc Partnership, Morgan Sindall Construction and the Nottinghamshire County Council has delivered for our shared community. From the inception of Millside Spencer Academy to now, delivering the best possible learning outcomes for children has been the centre of every decision, and we look forward to seeing this hard work and collaboration pay off for years to come.”