Marine Park First School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 31 March 2026

Pupils are happy and polite. They love coming to Marine Park First School. Pupils feel welcomed and cared for by all the staff. A sense of belonging is fostered by pupils being part of a ‘family group’. They are enthusiastic about the regular rewards they earn as part of this group. Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities are quickly identified and their needs met. When necessary, staff provide suitable adjustments to support pupils' access to the curriculum and enable them to successfully complete work. Behaviour is typically calm and orderly. Pupils understand the school’s expectations and generally follow these. They behave well in lessons, which enhances learning time. They show respect to staff and each other. The vast majority of pupils feel safe and say bullying rarely happens. Staff deal with issues if they arise. During break times, older pupils support younger ones, helping them if they fall or need a buddy. Pupils enjoy the varied and engaging curriculum provided for them. They also benefit from the range of visits, which enrich their learning and help make it more meaningful. For example, they make regular visits to the beach, city centre galleries and the local theatre. Pupils have a developed understanding of equality and why it is important not to discriminate. They know how to keep themselves safe online and in the community. They learn about the importance of democracy through the school council. The school councillors visit the House of Parliament and meet their local MP. They share their experiences with all the pupils in an assembly following the visit. Pupils typically demonstrate tolerance and respect through the promotion of the school's core community values of kindness, respect, thriving happily, learning, cooperation and celebration. As a result of this work, they are prepared for life in modern Britain.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that the professional learning around assessment supports staff in using their checks on learning to shape teaching that secures important knowledge and skills and strengthens pupils’ recall across the school.
• Leaders should refine what pupils learn about people, communities and values so that pupils' strengthened knowledge secures consistent, considerate conduct.

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