Hilton Spencer Academy
Derby, DE65 5GH · Derbyshire · primary school
Check the area around this school
69th of 263 primary schools in Derbyshire we can score, 354 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 — 7.4/10 against 3,211 of them, against 6.7/10 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 | 69.0 · 63 | 40% | 2.51 |
| Ofsted | 52 | 35% | 1.82 |
| Higher standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 12.0 · 74 | 25% | 1.85 |
Each measure is read as a position among comparable schools, so a school in the middle of the country scores 5. Full method.
Hilton Spencer Academy overview
How it's doing
In 2024/25, 69.0% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing and maths, compared to the national median of 64%. For the higher standard, 12.0% achieved it, against a national median of 7%. Ofsted rated the school Good in February 2023. Narrow the comparison to schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds and it does better still (7.4 out of 10 against similar schools, 6.7 out of 10 against all schools).
Getting in
The published school roll is 548 pupils against a stated capacity of 796. 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
Since the last inspection was in 2023, what specific improvements have been made to the curriculum since then? How does the school support pupils who are working towards the expected standard in maths?
What Ofsted said about Hilton Spencer Academy
Overview
Hilton Spencer Academy is described as a "joyful and welcoming place" where pupils feel safe and behave well. The inspection confirms that the school continues to be a good school, with leaders demonstrating ambition for all pupils and a strong commitment to inclusivity.
Strengths
- The curriculum is "logically ordered," allowing new learning to build on prior knowledge, with mathematics highlighted as a particular strength.
- Staff know pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) very well, using appropriate strategies and working closely with parents and external agencies.
- Early reading and phonics teaching is consistent and effective, helping pupils to learn sounds quickly and develop positive attitudes towards reading.
- Children in the early years get off to a "flying start," benefiting from a well-planned environment and strong staff relationships.
- Pupils demonstrate respect for diversity and difference, with a culture where "all are welcome here."
Areas to improve
- Assessment of the curriculum is not yet fully embedded across all foundation subjects, with some teachers not consistently checking pupil responses to identify misconceptions.
- Leaders need to monitor the implementation of recently introduced curriculum aspects more rigorously to assure themselves that all groups of pupils are achieving as well as they can.
Safeguarding
The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with a strong culture in place, prompt action taken in response to concerns, and well-maintained records.
Results over time
Expected standard (reading, writing, maths), the years we hold.
| Year | Expected standard (reading, writing, maths) |
|---|---|
| 2022/23 | 68% |
| 2023/24 | 69% |
| 2024/25 | 69% |
| 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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