St Martin’s Garden Primary School is celebrating a positive Ofsted inspection report recognising the progress made on its ongoing school improvement journey.
Inspectors visited the school on 13 and 14 January 2026 and highlighted the inclusive culture that ensures pupils feel safe, supported and able to succeed.
The report also praises the school’s broad and ambitious curriculum, noting how teachers have strengthened their subject knowledge and assessment to support pupils’ progress.
Early Years and Key Stage 1 were identified as particular strengths within the school.
Inspectors said, “Staff form positive and caring relationships with parents and carers. As a result, the early years environment is one where children feel safe, secure, stimulated and happy. Children settle well into school life.”
The inspection also recognised the school’s focus on personal development.
Pupils follow a well-planned programme that helps them learn about beliefs and cultures different from their own, while developing an understanding of British values.
Headteacher Joe Lund said, “We are all absolutely delighted with the progress that is being made and recognised here at SMG. The team are really pulling together to meet the needs of all our children.
“This is clear every time I enter classes and take visitors around the school. We know SMG is on a rapid improvement journey, but we also know we will achieve all our goals as an amazing community.
“The children are always at the forefront of everything we do. It has been heart-warming that Ofsted have recognised that leaders have prioritised key decisions in the correct areas.
“One of our main goals is to raise the profile of our school within the local area. With continued dedication and love from our staff and school community, as well as an unrelenting desire to flourish for our children, we will get there.”
Nathan Jenkins, Interim CEO on behalf of Palladian Academy Trust, also welcomed the report. He said, “We are delighted that Ofsted were able to visit last term and see first-hand the huge steps St Martin’s Garden has made since their last visit.
“The staff and pupils have responded positively to the changes Mr Lund and his team are implementing and it is a real source of pride that this was recognised by inspectors.
“St Martin’s Garden is a school that has undergone significant change in recent years, and it is encouraging to see that with stable leadership and a clear improvement strategy the school is beginning to deliver the high-quality education its pupils and community deserve.”
Families can read the full inspection report on the Ofsted website here.
