Brackensdale Spencer Academy
Derby, DE22 4BS · Derby · primary school
Check the area around this school
29th of 59 primary schools in Derby we can score, 74 in total — the rest without enough published data. Local and same-phase on purpose: a national table mostly measures who attends.
Narrow the comparison to schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds and it does better still — 5.5/10 against 2,156 of them, against 4.5/10 nationally. Both figures are results only, without the inspection grade. A lower figure here means a stronger comparison group, not a weaker school.
How this is worked out
| Measure | Percentile | Weight | Adds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expected standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 61.0 · 41 | 62% | 2.55 |
| Higher standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 7.0 · 51 | 38% | 1.95 |
Each measure is read as a position among comparable schools, so a school in the middle of the country scores 5. Full method.
Brackensdale Spencer Academy overview
How it's doing
In 2024/25, 61.0% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing, and maths, compared to the national median of 64%. The higher standard was reached by 7.0% of pupils, matching the national median of 7%. Narrow the comparison to schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds and it does better still (5.5 out of 10 against similar schools, 4.5 out of 10 against all schools).
Getting in
The published school roll is 497 pupils against a stated capacity of 525. These whole-school figures do not establish entry-year vacancies or the likelihood of an offer. Confirm entry-year availability and admissions criteria with the school or local authority.
Worth asking on a visit
How does the school support pupils who fall below the expected standard in core subjects? What are the specific entry criteria for the next academic year? How does the school structure its day to support pupils with similar backgrounds?
What Ofsted said about Brackensdale Spencer Academy
Overview
Brackensdale Spencer Academy is described as a place where pupils feel valued, included, and safe, benefiting from "exceptional leadership" that has driven "rapid and sustainable improvement." The school fosters a positive culture where pupils embody values to "be kind, shine bright and aim high," resulting in strong relationships with staff and high expectations for success, particularly for those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).
Strengths
- "Exceptional leadership at all levels" has ensured significant transformation and improvement across the school.
- The curriculum is "highly ambitious" and "expertly tailored" to meet individual needs, with particular praise for the SEND enhanced resource provision.
- Early years provision is outstanding, with environments "extremely well designed" to meet developmental needs and secure foundations for reading.
- Staff receive "high-quality training," enabling consistent curriculum delivery and effective support for pupils with additional needs.
- Attendance systems are "highly effective," with a "tenacious approach" ensuring improved rates for pupils who miss school.
Areas to improve
- The school must develop opportunities for pupils to work to "greater depth" in writing and problem-solving, as some do not currently achieve as highly as they could.
- The behaviour system needs to be implemented more consistently by all staff to ensure a small number of pupils focus better on their learning.
Safeguarding
The report states that "the arrangements for safeguarding are effective."
Results over time
Expected standard (reading, writing, maths), the years we hold.
| Year | Expected standard (reading, writing, maths) |
|---|---|
| 2022/23 | 42% |
| 2023/24 | 60% |
| 2024/25 | 61% |
| England | 64% |
Source: DfE Explore Education Statistics. “England” is the median of the 14,326 state schools in England we hold a 2024/25 figure for — a school-level median, not the DfE's pupil-weighted national figure.
Your offer chance
—Based on official applications/offers, distance and catchment where we have it. Bands only — never a percentage.
Sibling, faith, looked-after and other criteria can override distance. Always confirm with the school or local authority.
Next dates
- Primary (Reception) application deadline15 Jan 2027
- Primary National Offer Day16 Apr 2027
- Primary (Reception) application deadline15 Jan 2028
- Primary National Offer Day17 Apr 2028
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