Dear Parents/Carers,
Earlier today, Mr Dosad shared with you the final Ofsted report for Marden Primary after the full inspection last term. We are delighted with the outcome and especially the three areas identified as “outstanding”, which is the highest grade Ofsted can award. This report signals very considerable transformation at Marden Primary since it joined Leigh Academies Trust (LAT) in September 2020. The last visit by Ofsted before Marden joined LAT did not end in a positive report with several areas that were in need of significant improvement. It is very pleasing to see the impact of everyone’s hard work recorded in this most recent very positive report.
You will also know that Marden Primary will expand to two-forms of entry from this September. Up to now, just 40 children each year have been admitted to Reception, but that will rise to 60 from next academic year. To support the continued growth of the academy, Kent Council County (KCC) has agreed to invest in updated facilities which is likely to include a new building for Early Years and Key Stage 1 to be ready for September 2024. Those discussions are ongoing with KCC and we look forward to letting you have more information once we are in a position to do so. Whilst Marden has achieved a great deal in the last couple of years or so, with improved facilities on the way, it is clear that its brightest days still lie ahead.
Since his appointment in June 2021, Mr Dosad has played a major part in transforming the prospects of Marden Primary with support from his excellent team and the wider Trust. He has decided that now is the right time to move onto a new role nearer to his home and handover the position of Principal to someone else from September who will take responsibility for the next phase of the journey. Under Mr Dosad’s leadership, Marden Primary Academy has experienced significant growth and improvement, reflected in the recent successful Ofsted inspection that recognised our academy as “good” overall with a number of “outstanding” elements. His commitment to the academy and focus on fostering a positive learning environment has contributed to the creation of a strong and supportive school community.
As we prepare to bid farewell to Mr Dosad at the end of August, we would like to assure you that the search for a new Principal is already underway. We are committed to finding a candidate who will continue to uphold the high standards set by Mr Dosad and further advance the success of Marden Primary. We will keep you informed of the progress in selecting our next Principal and ensure a smooth transition during this period of change. Meanwhile, I’m sure you will want to join me in expressing your appreciation to Mr Dosad for his exceptional service and dedication to Marden Primary. We wish him the best in his future endeavours and are confident that his positive impact on our school will be felt for many years to come.
Lastly, thank you for all of your support as parents and carers for the important part you have played to ensure that Marden Primary is now on a much more positive trajectory. This includes a strong educational offer to local families and expansion so that more children can enjoy the benefits of being part of our wonderful community. We look forward to that success continuing for many years to come under a new Principal from September.
Yours faithfully,
Simon Beamish
Chief Executive
