Watchdog praises staff for keeping academy on track
STAFF and pupils at a school are celebrating after passing its examination by government inspectors in style.
Ofsted visited Marlborough Primary, on Tytherington Drive, Tytherington, last month and in its report has graded the school as good.
The previous inspection, in 2012, had also rated the school as good and praise was given for keeping this standard despite some turbulent times.
Marlborough Primary became an academy in 2016, which caused some changes.
In addition the Ofsted report stated several governors and members of the board of trustees resigned after this as well as eight staff going on maternity leave within five terms.
But inspectors said: “Leaders have taken decisive actions that have put the school back on track.
“Current pupils are making stronger progress, particularly in reading and mathematics. As a result, pupils are well prepared for the next stage of their education.
“Pupils enjoy coming to school. This is reflected in pupils’ high rates of attendance, commendable behaviour and positive attitudes to learning. Staff are proud to work at the school.”
Safeguarding procedures and teaching of reading, writing and maths was also praised.
The report also identified areas as ‘the next steps’ for the school.
These included coordinating subject plans to make a ‘ more coherent learning journey’ and establishing more reliable information about early years children’s starting points so they can ‘ get off to a flying start’.
Headteacher Susan Pollard said: “Our parents’ comments that they are delighted by the quality of education offered by the school, and are confident their children are well cared for and safe, is the ultimate accolade for the school and the entire team.
“One comment, ‘we are thrilled to be part of Marlborough Primary School – a school which does not rest but strives for excellence in every aspect of a child’s life and education’, sums up the ethos of this school.
“I am delighted that the Inspector has recognised the hard work of the team and the achievements of our children.”