Marner Primary School, located in Bow, London, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on November 9 and 10, 2022. The school is characterized by a positive and respectful environment where pupils are articulate, mature, and reflective. They treat each other with respect and value diverse opinions. The leadership team maintains high expectations for all students, ensuring they understand stereotypes and celebrate differences. Pupils exhibit sensible behavior and express excitement about their future opportunities, feeling happy and safe within the school community. When instances of bullying arise, students are confident in reporting them, knowing that staff will address these issues seriously.
The school offers a variety of outdoor spaces that pupils enjoy. In the early years, children benefit from a well-equipped area, while older students engage in activities like football and tennis in the playground. The school effectively utilizes its garden and forest area, with sports coaches assisting pupils in using the climbing wall, which is a popular activity among them. Staff members provide numerous opportunities for pupils to broaden their experiences through visits to museums and farms, as well as participation in various clubs, including sports, music, and origami. A Saturday school run by staff is also available and well-attended.
The curriculum at Marner Primary School is broad, balanced, and ambitious, allowing pupils to develop their subject-specific understanding. Leaders have clearly identified the knowledge required in most subjects, particularly in mathematics and science, ensuring a coherent progression from Nursery to Year 6. For instance, Reception children learn about animals and plants, which prepares them for more complex topics in Year 1. However, in subjects like history and geography, there is a need for clearer guidance on the key knowledge that pupils should learn and how it builds on prior understanding.
Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and effectively use assessment information to identify gaps in pupils' understanding. They regularly review prior learning and introduce new content sequentially, helping students build a comprehensive body of knowledge. In the early years, children engage in well-planned activities that cover all areas of learning. Most pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities access the same curriculum as their peers, with staff providing appropriate support and collaborating with external agencies to meet their needs.
Reading is a priority at Marner Primary School, with leaders ensuring that no pupil is left behind. Staff receive regular training, and the majority deliver phonics instruction consistently. However, there are occasional lapses in addressing incorrect pronunciations, which can hinder some pupils' reading fluency. Nevertheless, pupils develop a love for reading and engage enthusiastically with the books shared in class.
The school fosters an understanding of rights and responsibilities in modern Britain, teaching pupils to respect diverse opinions and stay physically and mentally fit. Staff report feeling well-supported and find their workload manageable. Parents and carers appreciate the positive relationships their children have with staff and the quality of education provided.
The safeguarding arrangements at Marner Primary School are effective, with leaders understanding the local context and engaging with external agencies to support pupils. All staff are aware of their safeguarding responsibilities and know how to report concerns. Pupils are educated on online safety and have trusted adults to approach with worries.
To improve, leaders need to clarify the specific knowledge to be taught in subjects where this is currently lacking and ensure consistent implementation of the phonics program to support all pupils in developing reading fluency. Overall, Marner Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong emphasis on pupil well-being and development.
