St Martins School is a small educational institution that has made significant strides in its overall effectiveness, achieving a Good rating in various areas including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school has transformed from a previous inspection grade of Requires Improvement to its current standing, reflecting the dedication of its leaders and staff to foster a nurturing and supportive environment for all pupils.
The school prides itself on its personalized approach to education, ensuring that each pupil is treated as an individual. This philosophy has cultivated trusting relationships between pupils and staff, contributing to a positive atmosphere where students feel valued, happy, and safe. The presence of Mr. Wilko, the school therapy dog, further enhances this environment, providing comfort and support to students. Pupils exhibit excellent behavior, actively engaging in lessons and interacting positively during social times. While some parents express concerns about bullying, pupils report that any incidents are promptly addressed by staff, indicating a proactive approach to maintaining a safe school environment.
Senior leaders have established an ambitious curriculum that encompasses a wide range of subjects, aiming to meet high expectations for all pupils. The curriculum is carefully mapped out, ensuring that knowledge and skills are effectively taught across all subjects. In modern foreign languages, for instance, pupils not only learn language skills but also gain insights into the cultures of different countries. Although most subjects are well-established, recent changes in a few foundation subjects in the primary phase are still in the early stages of implementation, and their impact is yet to be fully realized.
Teachers at St Martins School demonstrate strong subject knowledge and employ effective teaching strategies to support pupil learning. They utilize various assessment methods to reinforce prior learning, helping pupils retain information over the long term. Reading is prioritized within the curriculum, with a well-structured phonics program that is delivered by knowledgeable staff. This focus on reading has resulted in pupils making good progress, and older students express enthusiasm for the diverse range of books available in the school library.
The school is committed to inclusivity, ensuring that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities have access to the full curriculum. While primary staff are adept at meeting the needs of these pupils, there are areas for improvement in the secondary phase, where some departments could better utilize information about pupils with SEND to provide targeted support.
Despite the strengths in behavior and academic performance, attendance remains a challenge in certain year groups, with some pupils exhibiting persistent absenteeism. Leaders are actively working to address this issue, but continued efforts are necessary to ensure that all pupils attend school regularly.
St Martins School offers a variety of extracurricular opportunities that enrich the curriculum and promote personal development. Pupils can engage in roles such as sports leaders and reading buddies, and they have access to various clubs and programs that foster their interests and skills. The school also provides comprehensive relationships and sex education, health education, and effective careers guidance, preparing pupils for life in modern Britain.
Governance at the school is strong, with trustees implementing effective systems to monitor educational quality. Leaders are committed to staff well-being, resulting in high morale among staff members who take pride in their work at the school. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential issues, ensuring that pupils are well-supported and informed about safety.
Overall, St Martins School has demonstrated significant improvement and continues to strive for excellence in providing a supportive and enriching educational experience for all its pupils.
