At the beginning of June 2007, just after the half term break, we had an OFSTED inspection followed by a Section 48 Inspection of Anglican Schools, which focuses on Christian worship and the teaching of RE.

We had two days’ notice before the OFSTED inspection to gather together our evidence on the policy and practice at St Martin’s which support our high expectations and lead to excellent results. The Inspection therefore provided a true snapshot of the school over 24 hours. It was a short inspection because St Martin’s is already designated as a high performing school.

We were delighted therefore when the overall OFSTED judgment was Grade 1, which means we are outstanding.

This was not just because students make excellent progress in “lessons characterised by high expectations and a well-established climate for learning.” The Inspector also commented on the “shared mission of school leaders and staff” which contributes to the “strong, caring environment.” This ensures that “students’ personal development and well-being are outstanding.” The fact that students are highly motivated and their work monitored very carefully were also noted by the Inspector. Click on the OFSTED OUTSTANDING logo on the top right hand corner of the page to view the whole report.

We were particularly pleased with the OFSTED judgement because it confirmed what we already know – that St Martin’s staff and students are outstanding. However, when the Section 48 Inspection of Anglican Schools judged St. Martin’s to be outstanding we were even more gratified because it meant there was public recognition that our core beliefs and values impacted on every aspect of school life. The summary judgement read as follows: “The distinctiveness and effectiveness of St Martin’s as a Church of England School are outstanding. Learners benefit from a rich experience of worship and diversity. The strong ethos of care and respect is based on Christian values and a commitment to inclusiveness.” The other established strengths included “the culture of achievement that is reflected in every aspect of the school’s life” and “the pride that students have in the school.” Selected extracts can be found at the bottom of each page in this booklet.

These reports publicly confirm how St Martin’s provides a unique life changing experience for all our students. We are committed to the process of continual improvement and we pursue every opportunity for positive change.

This judgement has just been confirmed on the strength of an interim assessment (July 2010). St. Martin's remains an outstanding school.