Merstham Park School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 7 July 2026

Pupils are very proud of their school. They enjoy the school’s tangible sense of community. Pupils also particularly appreciate the school’s verdant outdoor spaces which provide shade in hot weather, and ample places to play and socialise. These aspects contribute to pupils’ regular attendance, as does the school’s careful support for any who need extra help. Frequent clubs and activities help bring learning to life for pupils. The school productions are a highlight, because they enable pupils to mix across age groups and build new friendships and shared experiences. Trips are valued, with both overseas and local experiences supporting pupils' understanding of the world. Pupils feel safe and welcomed. Pupils are not concerned about bullying and consider that it would be quickly dealt with should it occur. Clear education about respect and the value of diversity helps pupils of all backgrounds, including new joiners, to feel a sense of camaraderie. Despite this, a small number of pupils remain reluctant to report incidents of racist or sexist language. Leaders are committed to helping all pupils to feel able to report this so that the school’s effective systems can continue to support pupils and eradicate this unwanted behaviour. Pupils enjoy their learning. They recognise where it works particularly well, such as across the range of arts subjects, and value both the independence they develop and the progress that they make. Lessons are calm. Pupils are supported to achieve, including those with additional barriers to their learning, such as pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities. The school is continuing to develop the way that teachers check pupils' understanding. This is increasingly effective in helping pupils to be ready for their next steps.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure a consistent approach to how staff check pupils' understanding effectively and address gaps in pupils' knowledge to reduce variability.
• Leaders must ensure that all pupils are confident to report any incident of unwanted behaviour, such as sexist or racist language, so that the school can provide support quickly and effectively.
• Leaders should further develop pupils' opportunities for work experience and enhance pupils' knowledge of apprenticeship routes so that they are readied to make well-informed decisions about their next steps.

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