Martello Primary

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 8 March 2022

Pupils are happy and confident learners in this warm and welcoming school. They speak very positively about their school and are proud to be a part of it. Staff develop warm and caring relationships with pupils. Pupils feel safe. They say this is because teachers are kind and look after them. They know whom to talk to if they have any worries, including about bullying. They know that they will be listened to. Pupils have a mature understanding that everyone is different. They understand that respect and tolerance are crucial to good relationships. All pupils have opportunities to take on responsibilities. Older pupils train as playground leaders to support younger pupils during playtimes. Leaders are ambitious for their pupils. Leaders have carefully considered each subject and are continuing to strengthen their well-structured curriculum. Pupils work hard because lessons are often interesting and engaging. Those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are supported well, including those based in 'The Lighthouse'. Leaders have made the school a focal point of the community. Leaders and the staff team provide valuable support for pupils and their families. One parent commented: 'The staff at Martello care not only about the children, but also their entire families, and will go out of their way to help if they are able.'

What the school should improve

• In a few subjects, leaders have not identified precisely enough the knowledge that they would like pupils to learn. However, it is clear from leaders' actions that they are in the process of bringing this about. Leaders need to complete the process of reviewing the curriculum in all subjects within their identified timescale. For this reason, the transitional arrangements have been applied.
• In some subjects, assessment systems are not well developed. This means that teachers do not know how well pupils are learning in all subjects. Leaders should continue their work to develop and strengthen assessment approaches. Teachers need to be able to identify any pupils who need help and plan learning that builds on what they already know and can do.

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