Antrobus St Mark's CofE Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 31 March 2026

The caring staff team greet pupils warmly each morning. Pupils are proud to attend this small, close-knit school. Relationships are well established. Adults know pupils well. This helps pupils to start the day positively. Leaders prioritise attendance and punctuality. They provide effective, focused support to families when it is needed. Pupils feel a genuine sense of belonging to the school community. They behave well and play harmoniously. Pupils make excellent use of the well-equipped and rich outdoor play environment. They trust staff and know how to share any worries. Pupils are clear that bullying is not an issue. They feel safe, included and known as individuals. Pupils learn about how to manage risks effectively, including when working or playing online. Pupils generally achieve well. They enjoy lessons and participate with enthusiasm. The calm and purposeful learning environment celebrates pupils’ work and supports their learning. Leaders ensure pupils benefit from regular outdoor learning. Pupils, including those in early years, thrive in this carefully planned provision. Leaders are focusing on improving pupils’ writing. This is helping to ensure that the curriculum prepares pupils for their next stages of education and for later life. However, in some aspects of school life, leaders and governors do not have a sharp enough oversight. This means that the strategies and processes can lack rigour, so are not as effective as they should be. Pupils benefit from a broad range of well-considered opportunities to deepen their understanding of the wider world. For example, a trip to London gave insight into diversity and city life. Pupils who represent their classmates on the school council or as mental health leads take their roles seriously. Pupils value kindness and relish opportunities to be ‘Good Samaritans’ in school. These roles develop pupils’ confidence and prepare them for life beyond school.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should enhance their strategic oversight and challenge. This will make evaluative work systematic and improve practice. It will also help governors offer the right support and challenge to leaders, ensuring actions achieve the desired impact.
• Leaders should ensure that the pupil premium strategy is monitored effectively with a particular focus on writing to ensure that vulnerable pupils make the best possible progress.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)