The Marches School, located in Oswestry, Shropshire, has recently undergone an inspection on the 26th and 27th of September 2023, resulting in an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school is led by headteacher Alison Pearson and is part of The Marches Academy Trust, overseen by CEO Sarah Finch and a board of trustees chaired by Alex Fry. The inspection highlighted that most pupils and all sixth-form students enjoy attending the school, citing respectful and trusting relationships with staff. Pupils feel safe and well cared for, and they appreciate the diverse experiences and opportunities provided by the school, which prepare them for their future endeavors.
Teachers at The Marches School maintain high expectations for student learning, creating calm classroom environments that foster hard work and effort. The school has established clear behavioral expectations that pupils understand and strive to meet. Those who struggle with these expectations receive support to help them modify their behavior. Students are generally polite and respectful, confident that help is available if needed. However, a small number of pupils expressed concerns about not being adequately informed about the outcomes of reported bullying incidents.
The curriculum at The Marches School is ambitious and well-structured, with clearly defined learning journeys across subjects. Teachers generally adhere closely to these plans, and most pupils show interest in their learning. However, following a period of staffing challenges, the results in national tests for Year 11 do not yet reflect the positive aspects of the curriculum. Occasionally, implementation of plans may fall short, particularly when teachers lack secure subject knowledge, which can hinder pupil learning and retention.
Assessment practices are well thought out, with a focus on identifying gaps in understanding through live assessments during lessons. This allows teachers to adapt their instruction to better meet the needs of their pupils. The school provides strong support for students with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring their needs are quickly identified and addressed. Vulnerable pupils at risk of exclusion also receive dedicated support to help them remain engaged in their education.
Reading is prioritized within the school, with daily reading sessions in key stage three classes and effective use of the school library. Pupils who struggle with reading are quickly identified and supported by well-trained teachers, leading to rapid improvement for most. Sixth-form students play an integral role in the school community, serving as mentors and role models for younger pupils.
The school has a comprehensive personal development program that emphasizes the values of integrity, empathy, equality, excellence, and creativity. Initiatives such as the School Pride March and themed focus weeks contribute to character development and community engagement. The local governing board is well-informed and actively holds school leaders accountable, while staff feel valued and proud to work at the school.
The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. However, the school recognizes areas for improvement, including ensuring that all teachers receive the necessary training and support to effectively deliver the curriculum. Additionally, there is a need to enhance communication regarding actions taken in response to reported bullying incidents to maintain pupil confidence in the process. The school also aims to develop a comprehensive overview of support structures to better identify patterns in student needs and outcomes. Overall, The Marches School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive learning environment for all its students.
