Millgate School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

What is it like to attend this school?

Pupils' learning, safety and welfare are at the heart of Millgate School. Pupils know what 'transforming lives and inspiring futures' means for them. They rise to the challenges set for them, producing high-quality work.

They know extra help is on hand when they need it. Pupils are proud of their achievements.

Pupils are exceptionally polite and respectful to each other and to staff.

They understand the importance of behaving well and move around the school in a calm way. Pupils who find it hard to manage their feelings get highly effective support. Pupils know they must be honest and trustworthy to become 'Millgate men.'



Pupils thrive in ...the nurturing culture that staff have created. They know that adults will help them if they have a worry or concern. As one pupil summed it up, 'Staff really care about us here.'

Pupils understand that there are different kinds of bullying. They say that bullying is rare in their school. They explain that teachers deal quickly with any pupils who are unkind to others 'and won't have bullying here.'



All pupils take part in exciting clubs, trips and residential activities. These experiences enrich their learning and widen their horizons.

What does the school do well and what does it need to do better?

Leaders are ambitious in their determination to prepare pupils for life and work as independent adults.

Many pupils come into school following negative experiences. They settle very well. They enjoy lessons and understand that they can be successful if they work hard.

Teachers have high expectations of what pupils can achieve. Pupils enjoy the demanding work and do their very best.The school's curriculum is exceptional.

Teachers have strong subject knowledge. They assess pupils' learning and plan work that builds on what pupils know and can do. Skilful teaching helps pupils to remember the most important information they have learned.

Pupils, including those who are disadvantaged, keep on improving and learning even more.Staff believe in the importance of reading for pleasure and for information. Pupils enjoy the daily 'everybody stop and read' routine.

Many choose books from the list of '20 books you should read before you leave Millgate'. Pupils perform in drama activities related to the books they read. They make films and present at their own school 'Oscars' ceremony.

Pupils develop a love of reading and the skills they need to be successful across all subjects The physical education (PE) curriculum is extremely well planned. Staff are ambitious for what pupils can achieve as individuals and as part of a team.Pupils use their mathematical skills exceptionally well across all subjects.

For example, they demonstrate good understanding of measuring in their food lessons.This deepens pupils' understanding. Pupils' work in English, art, music, and food technology lessons is of a high quality.

Examples of their art work, which are on display, are of a very high standard. They take great care and are proud of their achievements.Personal, social, health and economic education (PSHE) helps pupils develop high levels of confidence, self-esteem and independent thinking.

The way the school develops pupils' characters is exceptional. Pupils have excellent attitudes and learn from their mistakes. They develop clear knowledge of British values.

Staff help pupils make choices about their futures. Pupils gain the qualifications they need for their next steps. These include a range of GCSE qualifications.

Pupils receive support in considering their careers. Leaders have developed strong links with local employers, such as the construction industry, and colleges. This means pupils begin to experience the world of work and prepare for college courses.

Leaders monitor workload pressures. They support staff's well-being effectively. Teachers place great value on the training they receive.

Governors are highly knowledgeable. They challenge and support leaders effectively. Leaders and governors have brought about consistent improvements across the school.

Parents and carers appreciate the support they receive from all staff including the family support workers. Parents say that 'staff go above and beyond'.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.

There is a very strong culture of safeguarding. Leaders make sure that all safeguarding checks are carried out efficiently and in a timely manner. Staff are trained well and kept up to date with the latest information about how to keep pupils safe.

Staff demonstrate excellent awareness of safeguarding around the school. All staff are vigilant about keeping pupils safe, including when they are online. Staff know what to do if they have a concern about a pupil.