The Marist School

The Marist School, located in Sunninghill, Ascot, Berkshire, is an independent Catholic day school for female pupils aged 4 to 18, alongside a co-educational nursery for children aged 2 to 4. Founded in 1870 by the Society of Mary, the school has a long-standing tradition of providing quality education. In May 2022, the school was acquired by Concept Education, which operates it through its subsidiary, The Marist School (Sunninghill) Ltd. The school aims to foster a culture of aspiration, intellectual curiosity, and academic excellence, creating an environment where students can develop confidence and strong moral values.

The recent inspection conducted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate took place from March 5 to March 7, 2024. A team of five inspectors evaluated the school over two and a half days, engaging in various activities such as lesson observations, discussions with governors, staff, and pupils, and reviewing documentation and policies. The inspection aimed to assess the extent to which the school meets the statutory Independent School Standards and other applicable regulatory requirements.

The inspection findings indicate that the school is effectively led and managed. Leaders and governors work collaboratively to promote the school’s aims, focusing on high-quality teaching, learning, and care. They actively monitor and evaluate the provision, demonstrating ambition for ongoing development. Development strategies include rapid improvement plans for phonics, reading, and mathematics in the prep school, as well as the introduction of a software program in the senior school to analyze pupil progress and inform intervention processes.

The quality of education provided at The Marist School is commendable. Well-planned lessons delivered by knowledgeable teachers result in pupils making good progress across all year groups. Older pupils achieve success in public examinations, and appropriate support is provided for those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Pupils who speak English as an additional language (EAL) also receive tailored support, ensuring they can fulfill their potential.

Leaders effectively assess pupil progress and intervene when necessary. While most marking is regular and constructive, some feedback, particularly in the sixth form, is infrequent and does not adequately guide pupils on how to improve. In the prep school, the use of two different marking systems has caused confusion among some pupils. Nonetheless, the school prioritizes pupil safety, systematically overseeing risk assessments and implementing suitable mitigation measures. Safeguarding is well-managed, with staff receiving appropriate training.

The school promotes pupils’ well-being through a robust pastoral care system, emphasizing the development of a supportive community. The relationships and sex education (RSE) curriculum is comprehensive, although some topics are taught after pupils have independently sought out the information. Pupils exhibit good behavior and respect for others, contributing positively to the school and local community through volunteering and fundraising for charities.

The inspection concluded that all relevant standards relating to leadership, management, education quality, pupils’ well-being, social and economic education, and safeguarding are met. However, the inspectors recommended that leaders ensure consistency in marking and feedback across all subjects, particularly in the prep school and sixth form, and review the delivery of the RSE curriculum to better meet pupils’ needs.

Governance at The Marist School is strong, with experienced governors providing effective support and challenge to school leaders. They have played a crucial role in developing initiatives such as the ‘Marist Diploma,’ which encourages pupils to document their participation in extracurricular activities and complete a research project. Leaders demonstrate a good understanding of risk management, ensuring that appropriate procedures are in place to support pupil well-being.

The curriculum at The Marist School is broad and balanced, covering all required areas of learning. Pupils develop effective linguistic skills through a focus on reading, writing, and speaking, and they engage confidently in discussions across various subjects. The school offers a wide-ranging STEM program and opportunities for pupils to participate in extracurricular activities that enhance their skills and confidence.

Pupils with SEND are well-supported, with their needs carefully assessed and appropriate support plans implemented. Similarly, EAL pupils receive the necessary assistance to access the curriculum effectively. The early years curriculum is designed to meet the needs of young children, providing a range of activities that promote their development across various areas of learning.

Teachers at The Marist School are knowledgeable and effectively plan lessons that build upon pupils’ prior knowledge. This approach enables pupils to steadily improve and develop new skills. The school’s ‘Aim Higher’ program further enhances pupils’ thinking and reasoning skills through talks and presentations by peers and guest speakers.

The school’s commitment to pupils’ physical and mental health is evident in its extensive physical education and games provision, promoting a healthy lifestyle. The PSHE curriculum addresses a range of topics relevant to modern British society, encouraging pupils to consider their feelings and those of others. The Wellbeing 2.0 program provides a network of support for pupils, and the school actively promotes good behavior and kindness.

The Marist School fosters a strong sense of community and social responsibility among its pupils. Through the PSHE program and other subjects, pupils learn about British values, democracy, and the importance of combating discrimination. They have numerous opportunities to contribute to the school and wider community, engaging in charitable activities and volunteering.

The school’s careers program equips pupils with the information needed to make informed choices about their future. It includes one-to-one sessions, talks from external speakers, and opportunities to attend careers fairs. Pupils also develop an understanding of financial responsibility through various initiatives, including the £5 challenge, which teaches them about entrepreneurship and social responsibility.

Overall, The Marist School demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education that meets the needs of its pupils. The school’s leadership, governance, and curriculum are well-structured, ensuring that pupils are supported academically, socially, and emotionally. The positive relationships fostered within the school community contribute to a nurturing environment where pupils can thrive and develop into confident, responsible individuals. The recommendations from the inspection provide a clear pathway for further improvement, ensuring that The Marist School continues to build on its successes and maintain its high standards.