Rushcliffe Spencer Academy “has a vision that ‘everyone will be given the chance to shine brightly’. This aim underpins this highly ambitious and very inclusive school.”
Students and staff at Rushcliffe Spencer Academy are celebrating after being judged Outstanding in all areas by Ofsted in their first inspection since February 2014. Inspectors visited the Academy on 13th and 14th May 2025 and have written a very positive report which showcases much of the excellent work that takes place at the
school.
Inspectors praised many areas of the school’s work including curriculum which is described as “highly ambitious, broad and balanced”. They noted that “all pupils develop detailed knowledge and skills across the curriculum, and as a result achieve exceptionally well”. Where they find it difficult, pupils are enabled to access the curriculum due to “caring and nurturing support”.
Alongside the taught curriculum, the inspection team were impressed with the wide range of additional opportunities available to students, describing a “wide ranging enhancements to the curriculum, including an array of trips and visits”. This extends to the sixth form where the extracurricular provision is described as “staggering”.
The school’s pupils came in for praise, being described as “inclusive and respectful of each other, staff and visitors”. The inspectors also stated that pupils met the Academy’s high expectations “brilliantly” and recognised their strong conduct and behaviour.
Sarah Sismey, Head of School said: “we are delighted to share this outcome with our community and are incredibly proud of our colleagues who always work hard for the benefit of our pupils. Schools do not work in isolation, and this is a moment of celebration for our whole community. We would like to thank our parents and carers for their ongoing support as we continue to move forward together.”
Graeme Smith, Executive Principal agreed, stating: “as well as staff and families, we should thank our pupils, who represent themselves and the Academy so well. Over the last year or so, the significant disruption caused by our building work has allowed them to show their resilience and maturity. We are proud of all of them. I’m particularly delighted that the report highlights the brilliant work our staff do to support our pupils with individual needs.”
Fraser Mitchell, Director of Secondary Education, shared in the celebrations, saying: “this outcome is a testimony to the combined efforts of pupils, staff and the community, who truly have ‘shined brightly’ together. I also want to pay tribute to Sarah, Graeme and their team for their expert leadership of the academy during the last eighteen months. I’m thrilled for everyone connected with Rushcliffe Spencer Academy.”