Marland School, located in Peters Marland, Torrington, Devon, has been evaluated as a good institution following its inspection on March 7 and 8, 2023. The school caters to pupils with social, emotional, and mental health difficulties, and all students have an education, health, and care plan. The school operates across three sites, providing a weekly residential program for boys at the Peters Marland site, while the Bideford and Barnstaple sites serve primary and secondary-aged pupils, respectively. The inspection highlighted the school's commitment to understanding and addressing the unique needs of its students, many of whom arrive after challenging educational experiences.
Staff at Marland School prioritize building positive relationships with pupils, which is a significant strength of the institution. This supportive environment allows students to feel safe and encourages them to re-engage with their education. The school has established clear expectations for behavior, and pupils respond positively to the strategies implemented by staff to help them manage their emotions. The school fosters a culture of trust, where pupils feel confident that staff will address any issues, including bullying, promptly and effectively.
Leaders at Marland School maintain high expectations for all pupils, aiming to raise their aspirations and help them achieve success. The school offers a diverse range of activities, including sports, outdoor learning, and educational trips, which contribute to pupils' personal development and confidence. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, with a strong emphasis on reading and mathematics. Staff effectively implement the reading program, ensuring that pupils receive the necessary support to keep up with their peers. The mathematics curriculum is also well-planned, linking learning across key stages to build knowledge securely.
However, the inspection identified areas for improvement, particularly in the clarity of knowledge and concepts that pupils need to learn in some subjects. Leaders must ensure that the essential knowledge is clearly defined and revisited throughout the curriculum to enhance pupils' learning experiences. While assessment information is used effectively to identify pupils needing additional support, there is a need for more coherence in learning across all key stages.
The atmosphere at Marland School is purposeful, with staff providing various therapies and interventions to support pupils' needs. This approach helps students build self-esteem and resilience. When behavioral incidents occur, staff guide pupils in reflecting on their actions and finding ways to prevent future occurrences. The personal, social, and health education curriculum is well-planned, equipping pupils with an understanding of relationships, mental health, and fundamental British values.
Leaders also prioritize careers advice, introducing pupils to the world of work through well-designed activities and work experience opportunities. This preparation is crucial for ensuring that pupils are ready for the next stages of their education or employment. The governing body plays an active role in supporting and challenging the school to ensure that pupils achieve well and feel safe.
The safeguarding arrangements at Marland School are effective, with a strong culture of safeguarding evident throughout the institution. Staff are well-trained and understand their responsibilities in keeping pupils safe. They work closely with external agencies to provide support for vulnerable pupils and their families. Overall, Marland School demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and effective educational environment for its pupils, although there is a clear need for ongoing development in certain areas of the curriculum.
