St Mark’s West Essex Catholic School in Harlow, Essex, received a positive inspection report following its evaluation on 22 and 23 February 2023. The school was rated as good in overall effectiveness, quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. However, the sixth-form provision was noted to require improvement. The school has maintained its good standing since the previous inspection in October 2017.
Pupils at St Mark’s are held to high expectations, and they celebrate their achievements and those of their peers. They demonstrate consistent respect and politeness, understanding the importance of good behaviour. The school fosters an environment where pupils are aware of their learning objectives and appreciate the feedback provided by teachers, which they actively use to enhance their work. The atmosphere in the school is calm and purposeful, with incidents of bullying being rare. When issues do arise, pupils feel confident that school leaders will address them promptly.
The school offers a variety of enrichment opportunities that align with its mission to provide opportunities for all. Notably, pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities have excelled in county boccia competitions, showcasing the school’s commitment to inclusivity. While the sixth-form curriculum is generally effective, there are areas for improvement, particularly regarding the clarity of guidance and expectations for independent study. This has led to some sixth-form students not achieving their full potential.
Leaders have undertaken a thorough review of the curriculum, implementing a well-structured program designed to support all pupils in achieving their best. They recognize the significance of reading as a foundational skill for accessing the curriculum and have established a robust program to assist weaker readers. Teachers are well-trained and possess strong subject knowledge, effectively delivering the curriculum and addressing misunderstandings swiftly.
The school has a clear approach to identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs. Teachers are knowledgeable about these pupils' needs and adapt their teaching strategies accordingly, ensuring that all students receive the support they require. However, the expectations for sixth-form students do not consistently align with those for younger pupils, leading to discrepancies in achievement levels.
Attendance in the sixth form has been a concern, particularly following the pandemic. The monitoring of attendance is not as rigorous as it is for other students, and there is a lack of clarity regarding how students who miss school are supported in catching up. This inconsistency has contributed to lower attendance rates and hindered students' academic progress.
The school has implemented a comprehensive behaviour policy that is understood and applied consistently by staff. This has resulted in a positive school culture where pupils exhibit polite and respectful behaviour. Leaders have prioritized the wider development of pupils, offering a well-considered curriculum for personal, social, health, and economic education. Pupils express a strong belief in equality and the celebration of differences, which is evident in their interactions.
The school provides various career events and opportunities, ensuring that pupils are well-prepared for their future paths. High numbers of students continue their education or enter employment after completing their studies. Staff appreciate the measures taken by leaders to reduce workload, allowing them to focus on teaching.
Governors play an active role in holding school leaders accountable and seek external advice to validate decisions, such as those related to the mathematics curriculum. The safeguarding arrangements in place are effective, with staff well-trained to identify and address concerns promptly. Overall, St Mark’s West Essex Catholic School demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and enriching educational environment for all its pupils.
