New Marston Primary School, located in Headington, Oxford, was inspected from October 8 to 9, 2019, and received an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school fosters a warm and welcoming community where pupils enjoy their learning experience. The leadership team emphasizes the development of well-rounded learners, instilling values such as growth, kindness, grit, belonging, and integrity. These values resonate with the pupils, who demonstrate enthusiasm for their education and personal development.
The curriculum at New Marston is broad and engaging, encompassing a variety of subjects and topics. Pupils benefit from exciting educational trips to museums, art galleries, music concerts, and even visits to Oxford University, which enhance their learning. Additionally, the school offers a range of extracurricular activities, particularly in sports, singing, gardening, and a popular journalism club, allowing pupils to explore their interests outside the classroom.
Teachers at New Marston have high expectations for their pupils, who respond positively to these challenges. Lessons are designed to be interesting, encouraging collaboration and thoughtful debate among students. The school environment is characterized by happiness, cheerfulness, and consideration for others. Pupils report that bullying is not an issue, and they trust the staff to address any concerns promptly, contributing to a safe and supportive atmosphere.
The school excels in its approach to teaching reading, with a strong emphasis on phonics from an early age. Staff are well-trained to identify pupils who may need additional support, ensuring that all students can develop a love for reading. However, there is an acknowledgment that pupils do not always have sufficient opportunities to apply their reading comprehension skills across all subjects.
Pupils demonstrate positive attitudes and perform well academically, thanks to an ambitious curriculum that clearly outlines what is to be taught and when. Nonetheless, there are instances where teaching does not fully build on prior knowledge, particularly in subjects like history, which can hinder pupils' ability to make connections between their learning experiences.
The school is committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, adapting lesson content to ensure these students can learn effectively without lowering expectations for any pupil. Early years education is particularly strong, with effective assessment practices in place to identify gaps in knowledge and understanding. Children engage enthusiastically in various activities, laying a solid foundation for their future learning.
Pupils exhibit good behavior, moving around the school respectfully and engaging in mature discussions during lessons. They respond well to feedback, using it to enhance their understanding and ideas. The school prioritizes personal development, teaching pupils the importance of respect and cultural awareness through various community events.
Leaders are mindful of staff workload, providing the necessary time and training for teachers to perform their roles effectively. The safeguarding measures in place are robust, ensuring a secure environment for all pupils. Leaders conduct thorough risk assessments and take appropriate actions to protect vulnerable children.
To improve further, curriculum leaders are focusing on enhancing the teaching of the wider curriculum to ensure that pupils learn and remember more effectively. There is a need for pupils to have more opportunities to apply their reading comprehension skills across all subjects, which will deepen their understanding and knowledge. Overall, New Marston Primary School is a thriving educational institution that supports its pupils' academic and personal growth while fostering a positive and inclusive community.
