Maryland Primary School, located on Gurney Road in London, has recently undergone an inspection on the 22nd and 23rd of February 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school has been rated as good, with specific areas such as behaviour and attitudes, and personal development receiving outstanding ratings. The quality of education, leadership and management, and early years provision have also been rated as good. This reflects a consistent level of quality since the previous inspection in December 2017, which also rated the school as good.
The school fosters a strong sense of community among its pupils, who demonstrate kindness and respect towards one another. They are aware of the values promoted by the school, including resilience, teamwork, and respect, and actively work to embody these principles. Pupils exhibit exceptional behaviour in lessons and throughout the school, largely due to the high expectations set by the staff. Instances of bullying are rare, and when they do occur, staff respond swiftly to resolve the issues. The relationships between pupils and staff are warm and supportive, contributing to a safe and happy environment for learning.
Maryland Primary School provides numerous opportunities for pupils to take on responsibilities, such as caring for the chickens in ‘Cluckingham Palace’ and selling their eggs. The school also offers a variety of clubs, including choir, fencing, and karate, which help pupils develop their talents and interests. Reading is prioritized, with staff well-trained in phonics instruction, ensuring that pupils learn to read fluently. Regular assessments help identify pupils who may struggle with reading, allowing for timely support. The school encourages a love for reading through access to diverse books and regular library visits.
Leaders at Maryland Primary School are ambitious for all pupils to achieve well and have implemented a well-structured curriculum that meets national standards. The curriculum is designed to build knowledge in logical steps, allowing pupils to engage in meaningful projects, such as creating printing blocks inspired by William Morris. In the early years, children are provided with a safe and stimulating environment that prepares them for future learning. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the modeling of language by adults, which can hinder the development of vocabulary and sentence structure in young children.
The school is committed to inclusivity, ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities have access to learning alongside their peers. Leaders collaborate with external professionals to provide necessary training for staff. Nonetheless, there are instances where strategies outlined in education, health, and care plans are not consistently implemented, which can affect the progress of these pupils.
Safeguarding is a priority at Maryland Primary School, with staff receiving regular training to recognize and respond to potential risks. The school engages with external agencies to ensure that pupils receive the support they need. Governors are actively involved in safeguarding practices, conducting thorough checks on staff appointments.
In summary, Maryland Primary School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education in a supportive environment. While there are areas for improvement, particularly regarding the implementation of strategies for pupils with special educational needs and the modeling of language in early years, the overall effectiveness of the school is commendable. The positive relationships, high expectations, and diverse opportunities for personal development contribute to a thriving school community.
