St Albans: Marlborough Science Academy retains Ofsted rating

The St Albans school was rated 'outstanding' in four out of the five areas assessed, with just 'quality of education' rated as 'good'.

The school's Ofsted report praised the behaviour of its pupils, leadership opportunities at the institution and "high-quality" extracurricular activities.

Three students at Marlborough Science Academy. (Image: Marlborough Science Academy)

"Pupils are polite, respectful and behave very well" the report read, "excellent relationships are evident between staff and pupils.

"Behaviour and attitudes to learning are very positive.

"Pupils have many opportunities to build important leadership skills and to take on positions of responsibility.

Pupils using VR at Marlborough Science Academy, St Albans. (Image: Marlborough Science Academy)

"Pupils demonstrate open-mindedness and respect towards those who are different from them. As a result, they develop into thoughtful young people."

The school's staff were also commended, with the report adding: "In the majority of lessons, teachers consistently check what pupils remember and understand.

High quality extra-curricular activities were described in the report. (Image: Marlborough Science Academy)

"Staff are skilled at identifying gaps in pupils’ learning. Leaders check for gaps in pupils’ reading skills."

However, the report also stated: "In a few instances, a small number of teachers do not always check well enough what pupils have learned before presenting new knowledge.

"This means, at times, a minority of pupils do not achieve as highly as they should."

We were delighted to share what can only constitute a fabulours Ofsted report. (Image: Marlborough Science Academy)

Marlborough Science Academy's headteacher Ms Thomson commented: "We were delighted to share with all our families and staff what can only constitute a fabulous Ofsted report underpinning a learning community with its children at its heart.

SUGGESTED READING

• Headteacher describes 'privilege' to lead 'outstanding' nursery school

• 'It's tremendous': Oaklands College rated 'good' by Ofsted

"In a world too where children’s happiness is at a premium, we were delighted to read that our students feel safe, cared for and happy in school.

"It is indeed a report to be proud of and reflects our fabulous staff across all levels who care very deeply about the school, developing well rounded and thoughtful young people; this too was recognised by the Ofsted team.

We were delighted to read that our students “feel safe, cared for and happy in school.” (Image: Marlborough Science Academy)

"With another new build on track as well as a continued focus on looking to the future, our Ofsted report captures our school with the energy, joy, and commitment it deserves."