Marsh Lane Primary School in Sheffield has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on June 28, 2023. The school is characterized by its inclusive and friendly environment, where pupils feel supported and are encouraged to succeed. The leadership has fostered a nurturing ethos, contributing to a positive atmosphere where students express happiness about attending school. Attendance rates are commendable, with most pupils attending regularly.
Safety is a priority at Marsh Lane, with pupils aware of whom to approach for help regarding any concerns. The staff's commitment to the well-being of students is evident, as they actively assist in resolving any issues that arise. The behavior of pupils meets high expectations, with respect shown towards peers and adults alike. Collaborative play among different year groups is encouraged, and instances of bullying are rare, with staff addressing any incidents promptly.
While the school has high expectations for academic achievement, there are areas for improvement in the curriculum. Some subjects are not implemented as effectively as others, leading to gaps in knowledge across the curriculum. Despite this, parents and carers express overwhelming positivity about the school, highlighting the supportive community and dedicated teachers.
The curriculum aligns with national standards, and leaders have identified key knowledge for pupils to learn. However, the assessment of learning in subjects beyond English and mathematics is not as robust. In certain foundation subjects, such as art, teachers effectively break down learning into manageable steps, resulting in high-quality work and confident discussions about their learning. Conversely, in other subjects, the delivery lacks precision, leaving pupils uncertain about their knowledge.
Reading is a priority, with staff trained in phonics instruction. Children begin phonics education in Reception, and regular assessments help identify those needing additional support. While early readers show progress, older, weaker readers do not consistently receive the same level of support. The school aims to instill a love of reading, with pupils enjoying stories read by their teachers.
The mathematics curriculum is structured to build knowledge over time, starting in the early years. Teachers revisit previous learning to reinforce understanding, but there is room for improvement in utilizing assessment data to address learning gaps effectively.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive appropriate support, allowing them to learn alongside their peers. Teachers adapt the curriculum to meet individual needs, fostering confidence and independence among these pupils.
The school offers a variety of enrichment activities, including karate and pottery, enhancing the overall educational experience. However, there is a need for greater emphasis on teaching about different cultures and fundamental British values, as some pupils may not be fully prepared for aspects of modern British life.
Staff morale is high, with a supportive team environment and recognition of leaders' efforts to manage workload and well-being. The school has received positive feedback from parents, who appreciate the nurturing atmosphere and the thriving environment for their children.
In terms of safeguarding, the school has effective arrangements in place, with staff well-trained and vigilant in ensuring pupil safety. Leaders maintain strong relationships with external agencies to provide necessary support for pupils.
To improve, the school must ensure clarity in the curriculum for foundation subjects, enhance the use of assessment to inform teaching, and provide more opportunities for pupils to learn about British values and diverse cultures. These steps will help ensure that all pupils are well-prepared for life in modern Britain.
