Marshfields School

Overview

Marshfields School is a special school where pupils are described as happy and thriving, with positive relationships and confidence in their learning. The inspection found that the curriculum is well designed and ambitious, enabling most pupils to leave with qualifications that support their future steps in education, work, or adult life.

Strengths

• The curriculum is "well designed" with content that builds year on year towards clear goals, adapted effectively for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities.
• Teachers use strategies that help pupils remember core ideas, including careful support for writing and a strong focus on reading through phonics and age-appropriate texts.
• Pupils benefit from high-value careers education, including work experience and visits, which enhance their understanding of future choices.
• The school environment is calm, with structured lunchtime clubs and mentorship from older students supporting younger pupils.
• The leadership team is "highly cohesive" and works effectively, with staff feeling well supported by recent changes.

Areas to improve

• The school should ensure that actions and strategies continue to improve the behaviour of a small number of pupils who exhibit challenging behaviour.
• The school must ensure all governors have the necessary skills and training to support and challenge leaders appropriately regarding the curriculum and school impact.

Safeguarding

The report states that "the arrangements for safeguarding are effective."