Rivelin Primary School, located in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on October 2-3, 2019. The school provides a nurturing environment where pupils feel happy and well cared for, fostering a positive attitude towards learning. Students express that bullying is infrequent, and when issues arise, staff address them effectively. The behavior of pupils in lessons is commendable, and they demonstrate excellent manners and respect for their surroundings.
Pupils are enthusiastic about their education and embrace challenges, referring to their ‘character muscles’ when faced with difficulties. They view mistakes as essential to the learning process and are eager to engage in discussions about their work. The school offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including spinning, free running, and art, which pupils appreciate. Many students are keen to take on responsibilities within the school, indicating a strong sense of community and belonging.
Parents have expressed high levels of satisfaction with the school, highlighting the supportive nature of the staff. The leadership team is dedicated to ensuring that all pupils achieve their potential, with a clear motto of maintaining high expectations. The curriculum is broad and well-structured, allowing pupils to build on their prior knowledge effectively. Curriculum leaders are passionate about their subjects, although some areas, such as art and geography, are still in the early stages of development.
Reading is prioritized within the curriculum, with books selected to engage pupils in their topics. For instance, Year 6 students read Percy Jackson while studying Ancient Greece, which helps them grasp relevant vocabulary and concepts. Most lessons are well sequenced, promoting a deep understanding of the material. However, there are instances where some activities do not emphasize critical knowledge, leading pupils to remember the fun aspects rather than the core concepts.
In the early years, children quickly begin learning to read, supported by trained staff who effectively teach phonics. The approach to reading is incremental, ensuring that pupils who struggle receive the necessary support to catch up. Children in the early years thrive in a stimulating environment that encourages curiosity and independence, developing both social skills and foundational academic abilities.
The school is committed to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they receive appropriate assistance to keep pace with their peers. Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff trained to identify and address potential risks. The school promotes safety awareness among pupils, particularly regarding internet use and local risks.
While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement. Some foundation subjects require more coherent planning to ensure that learning builds on prior knowledge consistently. Leaders are aware of these areas and are taking steps to enhance the curriculum further. Overall, Rivelin Primary School continues to provide a supportive and effective educational experience for its pupils, with a strong emphasis on personal development and academic achievement.
