Marlborough Road Academy rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted
School rated ‘Good’ overall and ‘Outstanding’ in Personal Development following Ofsted inspection in June
Report praises school for its “interesting”, “coherent” and “ambitious” curriculum
School also commended for extensive array of enrichment opportunities on offer
Pupils and staff at Marlborough Road Academy in Salford are celebrating after being rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted, with Personal Development judged to be ‘Outstanding’.
Following an inspection in June, inspectors shared a glowing report which praised the school for its strong academic curriculum. Described as “interesting”, “coherent” and “ambitious”, the curriculum is said to be well-planned by leaders. The focus on reading and the teaching of the phonics programme is also singled out as a particular strength. According to the report, pupils display “keen interest” in reading and are supported by a “well-organised” and “skilfully taught” phonics programme.
Importantly, the inspectors also highlighted the academy’s warm and friendly culture. Pupils are said to feel “happy and safe” and “thoroughly enjoy coming to this school”. The inspectors further praised pupils’ behaviour and attitudes, describing them as “well-mannered”, “respectful” and “curious about the world around them”.
As well as the strength of the academic curriculum, the inspectors were impressed by the extracurricular programme and the wealth of enrichment opportunities available to pupils. Pupils take part in a range of activities, from music to sport, and enjoy trips to museums, galleries and theatres. They are also said to fully embrace the leadership and ambassadorial roles open to them, allowing them to “demonstrate that they are active and caring citizens”.
Inspectors were likewise pleased to find that staff are supported well by leaders. According to the report, staff are “positive” about the school and feel that leaders are “mindful of their mental health and workload”.
Judith Richens, Principal of Marlborough Road Academy, said:
“I am thrilled with the outcome of our latest Ofsted inspection, which rated Marlborough Road Academy ‘Good’ overall and ‘Outstanding’ in Personal Development. The inspectors’ report, which highlights the strength and ambition of the curriculum, the exciting array of extracurricular activities on offer, and our friendly, caring culture, is a testament to the hard work of our wonderful staff and pupils alike. I would like to thank everyone across the school community for everything they do to make Marlborough Road Academy such a special place to learn, and I look forward to our school continuing to go from strength to strength.”