Positives are being drawn from the outcome of an inspection report for a small Eden school, following a visit by education watchdog Ofsted.
Milburn School, which has 16 pupils on its roll, was highly praised for its happy pupils and positive atmosphere, but the inspector said: “Evidence gathered during this ungraded inspection suggests that aspects of the school’s work may not be as strong as at the time of the previous inspection.”
The contents of the report, published last week, have been met “with a mixture of welcome and disappointment” by the school’s leadership team who have embraced the many positive observations in the report, and the school remaining ‘good’, while challenging the inspectors’ overall conclusion.
A spokesman said: “The ungraded inspection, carried out in February, recognised Milburn as a nurturing and happy school where pupils are safe, confident, and thrive personally and socially. It highlighted the warm relationships between pupils and staff, the school’s high ambitions, and the wide range of opportunities that contribute to pupils’ development — from forest school sessions to city visits and sailing.
“Inspectors praised the inclusive ethos, strong behaviour, and the school’s work with children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), noting the tailored support and positive outcomes.
“However, although the school remains good, the report also stated that ‘some aspects of the school’s work may not be as strong’ as during the last inspection — an outcome that the school’s leadership, governors and parents strongly disagree with, especially in light of the extensive improvements made in recent years.
“Since 2020, Milburn School has more than doubled its pupil numbers, rising from seven to 16, and introduced a wealth of new opportunities and developments. The school has designed a bespoke, locality-based curriculum — recognised by the Prince’s Trust Institute with a ‘Highly Commended’ award — and invested in the learning environment, including the addition of a new room, a forest school shelter and a growing programme of outdoor learning.”
Hayley Dixon, head of school, said: “I couldn’t be prouder of our school. Every single day I see the care, creativity, and commitment that goes into making Milburn such a special place to learn.
“The children approach their learning with such enthusiasm, and the staff go above and beyond to make sure every child feels seen, valued, and supported. The strength of our school isn’t something that can always be captured in a report — it’s something you feel the moment you walk through the door.”
The school’s community links include events like bonfire night, community lunches, bingo evenings, and award-winning outreach work such as the Fairshare food parcel project, which earned recognition through the Kinder Kind of Kitchens award. Pupils have even published their own book, welcomed visitors such as a BBC executive producer, and earned Blue Peter badges, giving them free access to attractions across the UK. Milburn’s partnerships extend across Cumbria and beyond, helping children connect their learning to the wider world.
Executive headteacher Nick Page welcomed the many positive aspects of the report but was clear that the outcome does not reflect the school’s current quality.
He said: “We welcome visitors to Milburn to see the exceptional work that goes on every day.
“The inspection report rightly identifies our nurturing culture, high ambitions, and the strong relationships at the heart of the school.
“However, the overall outcome does not reflect the significant progress made since the last inspection. I would always encourage parents to read inspection reports, but more importantly, to visit schools and see them in action.
“Inspectors are not always best placed to fully understand the depth and complexity of a school’s work. At Milburn, our focus remains on what matters most: the children, their learning, and their wellbeing.”
Chair of governors Dr Katherine Ibbotson said: “We are incredibly proud of Milburn and all it offers. The pupil number speaks volumes for the confidence the governing bodies, parents and pupils have within the leadership of the school. Governors have full confidence in the school’s leadership, staff, and the quality of education being provided. We see a school that is flourishing, inclusive, and ambitious for every child.”
Parents have voiced their support too: “My children have thrived since being at Milburn School,” said Anne McConway. “The curriculum is tailored, creative, and full of exciting trips. I’ve never encountered a school with such dedicated staff.”
Mrs Lynne Smith, another parent, added: “The best way to describe Milburn School is ‘a small school with a big heart’. My children are happier and more confident learners. With its strong leadership, SEND values, and community focus, it’s a truly special place.”
Milburn School remains officially rated a ‘good’ school by Ofsted.
