Ofsted visited Marlborough St Mary’s in January and the report, published today, states that the evidence gathered shows the school has improved significantly across all areas since the previous inspection in 2019 when it was graded as ‘good’. This means that had the inspection been a graded one, Marlborough St Mary’s would have been graded ‘outstanding’ in all areas. Dan Crossman, Headteacher, commented, “The inspector described the report as exceptional, and the key findings speak for themselves. I’m so proud of the whole team… staff, children, families and dog of course! Marlborough St Mary’s is a school the whole community can be truly proud of and I’m delighted this exceptional report reflects that.”
Ofsted found that “The school’s curriculum is ambitious… pupils remember what they have learned with ease and are eager to share this. Pupils have an excellent start in reception and make transitions to the next years smoothly. Staff help children develop a rich vocabulary through high quality conversation and storytelling. Children begin to read as soon as they start school with books that match the phonic sounds they know and quickly gain the skills to become confident fluent readers. The school has equally high expectations of pupils with SEND. Staff know pupils needs well and carefully consider the support they require.
Staff have high expectations for pupils’ behaviour. There is no low-level disruption in lessons. This means that pupils learn without interruption.
All pupils including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), flourish at this welcoming and inclusive school…Their behaviour is exemplary. Pupils are polite and well-mannered. They show high levels of care and consideration for each other.
Marlborough St Mary’s was also praised for the way it provides opportunities to support pupils’ social, moral, spiritual and cultural development. In fact, its provision for pupils’ personal development is exceptional.”
The school leadership and governance was also praised as showing a relentless commitment to ensuring the very best for pupils and their families.
The full report will soon be available on the school’s website.
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