Marshalls Park Academy, located in Romford, Essex, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on January 30 and 31, 2020. The school has established a strong sense of community, with pupils expressing pride in their school and parents praising the education their children receive. The leadership team, including the headteacher and trustees, is dedicated to ensuring high achievement for all pupils, fostering a calm and orderly learning environment that pupils appreciate.
The school has made significant strides in raising expectations for the quality of education, resulting in improved pupil achievement across a wide range of subjects, including GCSE examinations. Pupils engage in various extracurricular activities that promote character development, with sports and arts clubs being particularly popular. The school emphasizes respect and positive relationships, leading to commendable behavior among pupils. They conduct themselves sensibly and considerately, and any incidents of bullying are addressed promptly, contributing to a safe atmosphere.
Leaders and trustees are focused on providing a high-quality education, with clear plans in place for what pupils should learn. High expectations are set for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school has implemented effective systems to maintain high standards of behavior, which supports a conducive learning environment. Staff receive quality guidance on planning and teaching, particularly in subjects like English, religious education, science, and history, where pupils demonstrate a logical progression in their learning.
However, there are areas for improvement. In modern foreign languages and mathematics, some teachers lack the expertise to adapt subject plans effectively, which can hinder pupil understanding. Additionally, the school aims to increase the number of pupils studying the English Baccalaureate suite of subjects, but current plans for music, art, and design technology do not allow for sufficient depth of study. Leaders are aware of these shortcomings and are working to redevelop subject plans to ensure a broad and ambitious curriculum.
Teachers maintain high expectations for pupils with special educational needs, effectively meeting their individual needs. The classroom environment is calm and productive, with low levels of disruption. Personal development is promoted through various experiences that encourage pupils to reflect on moral issues and their responsibilities as citizens.
The safeguarding arrangements at Marshalls Park Academy are effective, with a strong culture of safeguarding established. Staff are well-trained and vigilant in identifying potential risks, ensuring that pupils receive the necessary support. Leaders work closely with external agencies to provide appropriate help when needed.
In summary, Marshalls Park Academy is a school that has made significant progress since its conversion to an academy in 2017. It offers a supportive and nurturing environment where pupils can thrive academically and personally. While there are areas that require attention, particularly in certain subjects, the leadership team is committed to continuous improvement and ensuring that all pupils receive a high-quality education. The school is well-regarded by both pupils and parents, reflecting its positive impact on the community it serves.
