Marsden Primary School, located in Whitburn, Sunderland, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 20 and 21, 2023. The school is characterized by a welcoming and inclusive environment where leaders and staff provide the necessary support for pupils to thrive. Students express happiness and a sense of safety within the school community. The leadership team has established high expectations for all pupils, ensuring that the curriculum is tailored to meet their needs effectively. This has resulted in strong achievements in reading and mathematics, while ongoing improvements in other subjects are being made to enhance the overall educational experience.
The school emphasizes clear behavioral expectations, starting from the early years. Children in Nursery are taught the routines sensitively, leading to exemplary behavior in lessons and throughout the school. Pupils demonstrate a solid understanding of bullying, and both students and parents feel confident in the school's approach to handling such issues. Personal development is a notable strength, with parents appreciating the school's commitment to nurturing the whole child. A variety of after-school clubs and well-planned visits broaden pupils' experiences, while leadership opportunities within the school foster citizenship qualities.
The curriculum is well-structured, allowing pupils to progress smoothly from early years to Year 6. Leaders have identified essential knowledge across most subjects, particularly in mathematics, where concepts are broken down into manageable steps. Teachers adapt their instruction to cater to the diverse needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The introduction of specialist Mandarin Chinese teaching in Key Stage 2 prepares pupils for future language learning in secondary school.
However, there are areas for improvement. In a few foundation subjects, such as geography, the sequencing of knowledge is not as clear, which can hinder effective teaching and learning. Additionally, strategies to help pupils recall important knowledge in these subjects are not consistently applied. Leaders are aware of the necessary steps to refine the curriculum in these areas. The training program for staff regarding the revised curriculum is still ongoing for some foundation subjects, which may limit the effectiveness of knowledge development.
The school prioritizes reading instruction, with staff receiving training to enhance their phonics and early reading teaching skills. A consistent approach to phonics is implemented, ensuring that pupils have access to books that align with their reading abilities. Regular reading sessions using high-quality texts contribute to developing confident and fluent readers who enjoy reading.
Marsden Primary School is a calm and positive learning environment. Staff effectively support children in settling into early years, and pupils demonstrate focus and diligence in their work. The school fosters positive relationships between staff and pupils, contributing to a friendly atmosphere during playtimes and lunchtimes.
The school has established strong connections with community groups, enhancing pupils' citizenship skills. Enriching experiences, including residential trips, are well-received by pupils, who express enthusiasm for their learning experiences. The school's approach to safeguarding is effective, ensuring that pupils' welfare is prioritized.
Leaders possess a clear understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. Governors actively support and challenge the school, while staff appreciate the consideration given to their well-being and workload. Parents express high levels of satisfaction with the school's academic and personal development offerings, highlighting the approachable nature of the leadership team. Overall, Marsden Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a commitment to ongoing improvement in all areas.
