Marshbrook First School

Overview

Marshbrook First School is described as a "welcoming and friendly school" where pupils enjoy positive relationships and feel safe. Leaders have designed a "well-sequenced curriculum" that ensures children get off to a "great start" in the early years and make strong progress in core subjects like reading and mathematics.

Strengths

• Pupils behave well, are kind to one another, and bullying is "rare".
• The curriculum is carefully planned, with "high expectations" of what pupils will know and remember.
• Reading is a priority from Nursery Year, with daily phonics lessons and books matched to pupils' known sounds.
• Teachers have "strong subject knowledge" in mathematics, helping pupils speak confidently about their learning.
• Staff feel "valued and supported" by leaders, who are considerate of workload.

Areas to improve

• The curriculum in a small number of foundation subjects is not yet fully embedded, limiting pupils' ability to build knowledge; leaders must ensure teachers receive necessary training.
• There are inconsistencies in how subject leaders monitor curriculum implementation, preventing them from identifying specific areas for improvement; leaders must ensure all subject leaders carry out their roles more effectively.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are "effective", with staff receiving regular training and leaders thoroughly checking staff suitability.