Derby Moor Spencer Academy Achieves IQM Flagship Status

August 28, 2026

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Derby Moor Spencer Academy has achieved IQM Inclusive School Award with Flagship School Status in recognition of its deeply embedded culture of inclusion, belonging and aspiration. The review found compelling evidence of a school where support is personalised, ambitious and focused on improving life chances and which is increasingly recognised as a beacon of inclusive practice. 

“Show Me You Know Me” 

Over the last twelve months, Derby Moor Spencer Academy has continued to strengthen its inclusive culture and further embed the principle that every pupil should feel known, valued and able to succeed. What is particularly striking is the extent to which the “Show Me You Know Me” philosophy has moved beyond a strategic priority and become embedded within everyday practice. 

A significant development has been the growth of the Inclusion and Belonging Team and the refinement of the academy’s graduated response model. One-page pupil profiles strengthened communication systems and collaborative review processes ensure that staff have a detailed understanding of pupils’ strengths, needs and aspirations. 

The learning walk provided compelling evidence of the impact of this work. Lessons followed predictable structures, adaptive teaching strategies were evident across curriculum areas and teachers demonstrated a strong understanding of individual learners through the use of pupil passports, reading profiles and access arrangements. 

Broadening Horizons and Raising Aspirations 

The academy has maintained a relentless focus on broadening horizons and raising aspirations for disadvantaged and vulnerable learners. Rather than viewing enrichment as an additional opportunity, Derby Moor has worked hard to ensure that all pupils can access experiences that extend learning beyond the classroom. 

The impact of the academy’s enrichment and employability offer is equally impressive. Through careers education, cultural capital opportunities, apprenticeships, university links, work-related learning and personalised curriculum pathways, pupils are encouraged to move beyond perceived limitations and consider a wide range of future possibilities. 

One pupil described an opportunity as “eye opening”, whilst another explained that it had “widened my horizons.” Another pupil reflected that discussions about future pathways “keep me going.” 

“Not Against You, But With You” 

The academy has continued to strengthen its trauma-informed and relational approach through the development of a culture that prioritises belonging, emotional regulation and positive relationships whilst maintaining high expectations. 

The use of Zones of Regulation, emotional literacy interventions, therapeutic support and restorative approaches demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of the relationship between wellbeing and learning. One member of staff described the academy’s approach as being “not against you, but with you”, a phrase that perfectly captures the relational ethos underpinning the school’s success. 

Significant investment in services such as Catharsis and Compass Counselling has enabled pupils to access specialist support when required, whilst structured referral pathways ensure that needs are identified and addressed early. 

In Control of Their Future 

Particularly impressive was the work taking place through enhanced provision. Staff described how personalised pathways are helping vulnerable learners access mechanics programmes, hair and beauty courses, university visits and community-based learning opportunities. 

Leaders spoke passionately about creating genuine “pathways to adulthood” and ensuring that success is measured not only through qualifications but through confidence, independence and readiness for the future. As one member of staff reflected, true success is when young people are “in control of their future.” 

Together We Succeed 

Throughout the review, the enhanced provision was identified as a significant strength. Staff spoke passionately about building provision around pupils’ strengths, interests and aspirations rather than focusing solely on barriers. 

The project also seeks to build wider system capacity through outreach, coaching and collaboration. This aligns with the academy’s growing role within the IQM network and Spencer Academies Trust. Staff described increasingly effective partnerships between teachers and teaching assistants and a commitment to ensuring that expertise is shared rather than residing within a small number of specialists. This reflects the philosophy displayed throughout the academy: “Together We Succeed.” 

Find Out More About IQM 

If your school is interested in achieving IQM accreditation, contact the IQM team on 028 7127 7857 or email admin@iqmaward.com. 

To find out more about IQM and request a free information pack, visit www.iqmaward.com.