Marazion School, located in Cornwall, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on July 19, 2023. The school emphasizes a culture of kindness that begins in the early years and extends through to Year 6. Staff members are well-acquainted with the pupils, fostering warm and nurturing relationships. This supportive environment allows pupils to care for one another and act responsibly, contributing to a sense of safety within the school. High expectations for learning and behavior are upheld, particularly for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. The older pupils in Year 6 take on responsibilities that help younger students, with initiatives like the ‘class angels’ serving as mentors.
Pupils enjoy a variety of lunchtime and after-school clubs, including the Marazion Monster Mechanics Club, which focuses on building and driving lightweight electric vehicles. Other clubs, such as drama, rock band, and cross-stitch, cater to diverse interests and talents. The school enriches its curriculum with engaging visits, including sleepovers in aquariums and trips to London and Oxford, which help pupils develop independence and resilience. Experiences such as visits to places of worship broaden their understanding of different cultures and faiths.
The leadership team at Marazion School is ambitious for all pupils, particularly those with special educational needs or from disadvantaged backgrounds. They have designed a broad and balanced curriculum that is well-sequenced and suitable for mixed-aged classes. Pupils are engaged and excited about their learning, with each topic having a clear purpose. Leaders have identified essential knowledge for pupils to learn and remember, ensuring that teachers are aware of when this knowledge should be taught.
Teachers effectively utilize the curriculum framework to create well-structured lessons, incorporating subject-specific vocabulary and encouraging deep thinking. Pupils have opportunities to explore new skills through a wide range of activities. In certain subjects, assessment practices are effective in identifying gaps in knowledge, particularly in reading, where support is provided to help pupils catch up. However, in other areas, assessment lacks precision, leading to some pupils developing gaps in their knowledge over time.
While pupils generally achieve well in reading, the phonics screening check results for Year 1 pupils in 2022 were below expectations. This does not reflect the current pupils' progress in reading, as children in Reception begin learning phonics immediately and practice with appropriate books. The school promotes a love of reading, with older pupils expressing enthusiasm for their favorite authors and daily reading sessions with adults.
The culture of inclusion is strong, with leaders collaborating closely with parents and staff to identify the support needed for each pupil. Teachers receive specialized training to effectively assist pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they can participate fully in learning. The personal development curriculum addresses diversity and equality, allowing pupils to appreciate their unique qualities and respect differences among their peers.
Staff members feel valued and proud of their school, with leaders prioritizing their well-being and managing workloads effectively. Governors are committed to the school and hold leaders accountable for the quality of education. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of vigilance ensuring that staff can identify and report concerns promptly. Pupils are educated about online safety, understanding the importance of protecting personal information.
To improve, the school needs to further develop assessment practices in some subjects to ensure that all pupils build on prior learning effectively and address any knowledge gaps. Overall, Marazion School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
