Marshlands Primary School, located in Old Goole, has been recognized for its overall effectiveness, receiving a Good rating in various areas including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The inspection conducted on March 8 and 9, 2023, highlighted the positive environment fostered by the school, where pupils feel happy and proud to belong. The school promotes values such as resilience, respect, and positivity, which are evident in the interactions among pupils. Relationships between staff and students are described as excellent, contributing to a supportive atmosphere where pupils feel valued.
The school has implemented a robust behavior and rewards system that is well understood by pupils, leading to high levels of engagement and focus during lessons. This positive behavior is consistent even in the early years, where children demonstrate attentiveness and adherence to routines. Instances of bullying are rare, and both parents and pupils commend the swift action taken by staff to address any unkind behavior, further enhancing the school's nurturing environment.
Marshlands Primary School offers a diverse range of experiences aimed at developing pupils academically and personally. The Making Marshland Memories initiative provides opportunities for pupils to participate in various extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and environmental projects. Leadership opportunities are also available, allowing pupils to take on roles such as pupil parliament members or library squad members, fostering a sense of responsibility and community involvement.
The school places a strong emphasis on early reading, with leaders prioritizing literacy and implementing a phonics program tailored to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Teachers provide repeated practice to reinforce learning, resulting in pupils developing fluency and confidence in reading. The curriculum is coherent, with subject leaders outlining key knowledge and skills for pupils to acquire. Teachers design learning sequences that promote deeper understanding and encourage discussion and exploration of ideas.
Despite the strengths noted, the inspection identified areas for improvement. The progress of pupils in Year 6 in 2022 was significantly below the national average in writing and mathematics, attributed to disruptions in learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, some teachers lack the subject knowledge necessary to select appropriate activities that facilitate effective learning, which can hinder pupils from achieving their potential.
In the early years, the curriculum is well-structured, focusing on language development and mathematical skills. However, adaptations for pupils with special educational needs are not always sufficient, which can impede their progress and independence. Leaders are encouraged to ensure that all teachers receive clear guidance on supporting these pupils effectively.
Governance at the school is strong, with governors fulfilling their responsibilities and supporting staff well-being. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a strong culture of safeguarding in place. Leaders maintain close relationships with families and are aware of the individual circumstances of pupils, ensuring they receive the necessary support.
Overall, Marshlands Primary School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education in a supportive environment. While there are areas that require attention, the school is well-positioned to continue fostering the growth and development of its pupils.
