Martin Primary School, located in East Finchley, London, has recently undergone an inspection on 17 and 18 October 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school has been rated as good, with specific areas such as behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and early years provision receiving outstanding ratings. The quality of education and leadership and management were also rated as good. The school had previously been rated outstanding in its last inspection in December 2011 and was exempt from routine inspections until November 2020 due to its high standards.
Pupils at Martin Primary School are reported to be happy and enjoy their time at school, largely due to the safe, calm, and orderly environment created by the staff. The ambitious curriculum is accessible to all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The early years provision is particularly strong, providing children with a solid foundation for their educational journey. The school ensures that pupils are well-prepared for the next stages of their education and life beyond primary school.
The positive attitudes of pupils reflect the high expectations set by school leaders. Respectful relationships are fostered throughout the school community, with an emphasis on mutual respect and the rights of individuals. Pupils feel confident in expressing any concerns they may have to staff, contributing to a supportive atmosphere.
The curriculum is designed to connect learning with real-life experiences, enhancing the relevance and meaning of the content. Educational visits, particularly within the local area, are integral to this approach, allowing pupils to engage with their learning in practical ways. The school plays a vital role in the local community, providing extensive support for families in need.
While the school has made significant strides in curriculum development, there are areas for improvement. Staff have worked diligently to create an aspirational curriculum that breaks down essential content into manageable steps. However, some teachers do not consistently check pupils' understanding during lessons, which can hinder the ability to adapt teaching to meet immediate needs. This may result in some pupils not fully grasping concepts before moving on to new material. The school is in the early stages of implementing a new assessment approach to better understand what pupils know and remember.
The identification of pupils with special educational needs is effective from the outset, and a range of interventions is in place to support their learning. The school prioritizes developing confident and fluent readers, particularly in the early years, where communication and language skills are emphasized. Phonics lessons are structured to ensure pupils are engaged and able to apply their learning in practical contexts.
Pupils are encouraged to develop self-regulation, perseverance, and resilience, starting from the early years. They learn essential social skills, such as being a good friend and showing respect. The school has implemented strategies to promote good attendance and actively engages pupils in community service, fostering a sense of responsibility and pride.
Leadership at Martin Primary School is characterized by high expectations and a commitment to excellence. The governing body is well-informed and effectively oversees the strategic direction of the school. Professional development opportunities for staff are clearly identified, and leaders are attentive to supporting staff workload and work-life balance.
The safeguarding arrangements at the school are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. Overall, while Martin Primary School demonstrates many strengths, particularly in its supportive environment and curriculum development, there is a need for consistent assessment practices to enhance pupil understanding and readiness for future learning.
