Marston Vale Middle School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 8 October 2024

This is a warm and caring school where pupils are happy and feel safe. The school welcomes and accepts others, whatever their background. There are respectful relationships between pupils of all ages and between pupils and adults. Pupils enjoy and celebrate the recognition they receive through being a 'marvellous Marston'. Pupils behave well. They demonstrate the school values of 'ready, respectful, responsible'. They understand how these help them to become responsible and kind citizens. For example, in lessons, they are ready to learn and focus on their learning. They show politeness and respect around school such as by routinely holding doors open. The culture of high expectations extends to pupils' academic success. Pupils learn an improved curriculum, which is helping them to know and remember more. As a result, pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), talk confidently and enthusiastically about what they have learned. Pupils eagerly take on leadership roles from the increasing range of opportunities that are on offer. This helps to ensure their voice is heard. Peer mentors articulate how their training has helped them listen to, and help, younger pupils joining the school.

What the school should improve

• In a few subjects, for example mathematics, the curriculum and teaching have not ensured that pupils have the confidence to apply their knowledge to unfamiliar contexts. As a result, pupils are not yet making as much progress as they should. The school should ensure that it continues to develop opportunities across the curriculum to help pupils become more fluent in applying their knowledge and to improve outcomes at the end of key stage 2 and beyond.

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