Markethill Primary School

Overview

The inspection occurred during industrial action, meaning teachers did not cooperate with classroom observations. Consequently, the ETI states it is “unable to assure... of the quality of education being provided” and could not fully evaluate outcomes, provision, or leadership. Despite these limitations, the report highlights positive feedback from parents and children regarding the school’s ethos and specific learning activities.

Strengths

• Parents reported “high levels of satisfaction with all aspects of the life and work of the school,” citing “effective leadership and supportive, child-centred ethos.”
• Year seven children “read confidently and fluently” and enjoyed developing independent reading skills.
• Children demonstrated accurate use of “appropriate mental mathematics strategies” and enjoyed explaining their thinking.
• The school “identifies appropriately, at an early stage, the children who require additional support” and provides tailored programmes, such as a sensory motor programme.
• Governors are “well informed about the strengths and challenges” and place a clear focus on children’s well-being.

Areas to improve

• The report does not list specific areas for improvement; instead, it states the ETI was “unable to evaluate fully” key aspects of the school due to the industrial action.

Safeguarding

The report states that safeguarding arrangements “reflect broadly the guidance from the Department of Education,” and children reported feeling safe and knowing who to talk to, though the ETI could not fully evaluate the outworking of these arrangements.