Ofsted conducted a short inspection of Middlemarch School on 3 April 2019, following its previous judgment of good in June 2015. The inspection confirmed that the school continues to maintain a good quality of education. The leadership team has effectively contributed to ongoing improvements over the past three years, resulting in rising pupil attainment. Staff morale is high, with all surveyed staff feeling supported by leaders, which fosters a positive school ethos. Pupils receive strong social, emotional, and academic support, enjoy their time at school, behave well, and are well-prepared for secondary education.
The school has successfully managed changes in pupil intake, with an increase in new pupils from overseas and other schools, some of whom have complex needs. This has required significant time and resources to ensure their successful integration. Although pupils' attainment at the end of key stage 2 was previously low, leaders have responded effectively, leading to improved results each year. Mathematics teaching is particularly effective, with attainment levels matching national averages. However, progress in lower key stage 2 is not consistently strong.
Leaders have a clear understanding of the strengths and weaknesses in teaching and pupil progress. The school improvement plan has generally been effective, supporting actions to enhance the attainment of disadvantaged pupils and improve the reading culture. However, recent changes to the plan's layout have made it less clear regarding responsibilities and timelines for actions. Previous areas for improvement have been addressed, including the presentation policy and handwriting teaching, resulting in most pupils taking pride in their work.
Pupils benefit from a wide range of enrichment opportunities, including various extracurricular clubs and music lessons. The specialist provision for pupils with communication and interaction needs offers excellent support, fostering nurturing relationships and effective progress. The governing body plays an active role in providing challenge and support, ensuring leaders take necessary actions to raise attainment.
Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff well-trained and knowledgeable about their responsibilities. Concerns are reported promptly, and referrals to local authorities are made in a timely manner. Pupils demonstrate a strong understanding of how to keep themselves safe, particularly regarding internet safety.
The teaching of reading has improved, with pupils expressing enjoyment in reading and engaging in comprehension activities. However, while reading attainment has risen, it remains below desired levels. The curriculum has been designed to appeal to all pupils, particularly boys, and is generally broad and balanced. The provision for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is good, although the criteria for identifying pupils on the SEND register need clarification to ensure that only those who require support are included.
Overall, attendance rates are above the national average, with particular concern regarding disadvantaged pupils. Leaders monitor attendance and provide family support, but further challenges are needed in specific cases. The inspection concluded with recommendations for leaders to ensure the effective implementation of reading strategies, improve progress in lower key stage 2, clarify the school improvement plan, enhance attendance for disadvantaged pupils, and refine the criteria for identifying pupils with SEND.
