Marling School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents and pupils

This is an outstanding school Students make excellent progress and their attainment is well above average. The school uses assessment information very well so that all students are fully challenged. Achievement for all groups of students, including the most able and the few supported by additional government pupil premium funding, is outstanding.

Teaching is outstanding. Students are empowered to learn by the many opportunities they have to work independently and in groups. Lessons are usually well paced and challenging and maintain a strong focus on learning.

Mature, considerate behaviour is the norm. Students' highly positive approach to their studies ensure...s classrooms are excellent places to learn. Behaviour out of lessons is also outstanding and bullying of all kinds is virtually unknown.

The achievement of students in the sixth form is excellent due to the high standards of teaching and care they receive. They are very well prepared for the future and almost all move smoothly on to university education. The sixth form is outstanding.

The leadership and management of the school have greatly benefited from the headteacher's restructuring of responsibilities. This has empowered a wide range of senior and middle leaders to drive improvement so that leadership and management are outstanding. Regular checks on teaching and progress help maintain very high standards in both areas.

The governing body makes thorough checks on many aspects of school life. This provides its members with a very clear picture of the school and enables governors to provide both rigorous challenge and warm support in equal measure.

Information about this school

This is a smaller than average-sized selective secondary school.

The proportion of students eligible for the pupil premium (additional funding for looked-after children, students known to be eligible for free school meals and those from service families) is well below the national average. The proportion of students from minority ethnic groups is well below average. Almost all students speak English as their first language.

The proportion of disabled students and those who have special educational needs supported through school action is well below average. The proportion of students supported at school action plus or with a statement of special educational needs is also well below average. The school became a stand-alone academy in August 2011.

The sixth form is run in partnership with the adjacent girls' grammar school. The school does not use any alternative provision for its students. The school meets the current government floor standards, which set the minimum expectations for students' attainment and progress.