The Market Weighton School, located in East Yorkshire, has undergone a recent inspection that highlighted its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on 14 and 15 September 2022, and the school has shown significant improvement since its previous inspection, which rated it as requiring improvement. The school is characterized by a strong sense of community and a commitment to values such as respect, honesty, compassion, resilience, industry, and courage. These values are embraced by the pupils, who demonstrate them in their daily interactions and learning experiences.
Pupils at The Market Weighton School express satisfaction with the diverse range of subjects offered and are able to articulate their learning experiences confidently. The teaching staff, equipped with expertise, support students in achieving goals that extend beyond the academic curriculum. The school provides numerous extracurricular activities that are well-attended, contributing to a vibrant school life. Leaders prioritize an ambitious curriculum for all pupils, regardless of their starting points, and maintain high expectations for student performance. This approach fosters a supportive environment where pupils feel valued and understood.
Safety and well-being are paramount at The Market Weighton School. Pupils report feeling secure, and staff are proactive in addressing any instances of bullying. The school environment is described as calm and purposeful, with respectful conduct evident in both academic and social settings. Pupils know where to seek support if needed, reinforcing a culture of care and responsibility.
The leadership team is dedicated to enhancing educational outcomes for all pupils. The curriculum is broad, stimulating, and challenging, with subject leaders effectively organizing essential concepts for student understanding. While most subjects have advanced curriculum planning, some foundation subjects require clearer specification of content to ensure pupils build on prior knowledge effectively. Teachers are knowledgeable and utilize assessment checks to inform lesson content, addressing any misconceptions that may arise.
Reading is a significant focus within the school, with various initiatives in place to foster a love of reading among pupils. A structured approach to improving reading skills is evident, and Year 6 pupils receive a reading book to aid their transition to secondary education. This book serves as a catalyst for discussions and activities in Year 7.
Pupils exhibit commendable behavior throughout the school, demonstrating consideration and respect for one another. The inclusive environment extends to pupils in the enhanced resourced provision, who interact and learn alongside their peers. The school is recognized for its strong support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, with tailored assistance provided to meet individual requirements.
The personal development program at The Market Weighton School is comprehensive, covering essential British values and topics such as relationships and sex education. Pupils receive targeted careers advice, including work experience opportunities, which are supported by staff. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities that engage pupils and encourage participation.
Governance at the school is effective, with a mix of experienced and new governors who actively engage with school leadership. The headteacher and governors foster a collaborative culture, allowing staff to access professional development aligned with school priorities. Leaders are mindful of staff workload and well-being, ensuring a balanced approach to educational excellence.
The safeguarding arrangements at The Market Weighton School are robust, with staff trained to recognize and address potential risks. Regular discussions among leaders about local community issues enhance the safeguarding framework. Pupils participate in a thorough curriculum that educates them on recognizing risks and staying safe, instilling confidence in their ability to seek help when needed.
In summary, The Market Weighton School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education in a supportive and inclusive environment. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in the clarity of curriculum planning for some foundation subjects, the overall effectiveness of the school is commendable.
