East Markham Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 6 June 2023

This is a well-led school where pupils are enthusiastic about their learning. They are proud of their school and make every effort to do well. From learning about butterflies in early years to calculating best value holidays in Year 6, pupils enjoy relevant and interesting learning activities. This enjoyment is evident across the curriculum. For example, one pupil said: 'I love art because it lets me express my feelings.' Expectations of work and behaviour are high. Living out the school mantra of 'ready, respectful and safe', pupils behave well. Pupils say that when bullying occasionally happens, they trust that adults will deal with it. They know that they can talk to an adult should anything worry them. They feel happy and safe at school. Staff take great care to meet the needs of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Pupils are included in all aspects of the school. Most parents and carers are happy with the school. One parent, typical of many, commented: 'This school wants to give all its pupils the best possible education and experience it can. Staff take care of the whole child, not simply focusing on academic achievement.'

What the school should improve

• In a few subjects, leaders have not precisely identified what knowledge pupils must know and in what order. As a result, pupils' knowledge in these subjects is not as strong. Leaders need to complete their work on refining the curriculum so that the knowledge pupils must know and remember is clear in all subjects.
• Pupils' recall and understanding of British values are underdeveloped. This does not prepare them well for life in modern society. Leaders should ensure that all pupils have an age-appropriate understanding of British values.

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