Rodmarton Primary School, located in Cirencester, Gloucestershire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on March 8, 2022. The school is characterized by a warm and welcoming environment that fosters an exciting learning atmosphere for its pupils. The leadership and staff maintain effective communication with parents, which enhances their understanding of the pupils and their families. Parents express high levels of satisfaction with the school, with many praising the support provided by the staff.
Pupils at Rodmarton Primary School demonstrate happiness and pride in being part of the school community. They exhibit good manners and sociability, displaying positive attitudes and a strong eagerness to learn. The adults in the school care for the pupils and build positive relationships with them, contributing to a safe and supportive environment. Pupils report that instances of poor behavior and bullying are rare, and they feel confident that any issues will be addressed promptly by the staff.
The school has been proactive in addressing the impact of the pandemic on pupils' well-being. Staff provide effective support through various initiatives, including nurture groups, art therapy, and mindfulness programs, which help pupils manage their emotions. High expectations are set for pupil behavior and academic performance, resulting in a hardworking and well-behaved student body. The curriculum is enriched with memorable learning experiences, such as trips to Cotswold Wildlife Park and Cadbury World, which enhance the educational experience.
Senior leaders at Rodmarton Primary School are ambitious and dedicated to continuous improvement. They have developed a high-quality curriculum that engages pupils and motivates them to learn. Early reading skills are emphasized, with teachers providing regular phonics practice and opportunities to develop comprehension skills. Pupils are encouraged to become confident and fluent readers, enjoying a diverse range of literature.
In mathematics, pupils apply their knowledge effectively, using concepts such as greater than and less than to solve problems. The modern foreign languages curriculum is well-structured, allowing pupils to develop their skills in Spanish. The geography curriculum enhances pupils' understanding of different places, with plans in place to further refine the learning sequences.
While most pupils progress well through the curriculum, some subjects lack clearly defined sequences of learning, which can hinder the development of foundational knowledge. Teachers regularly assess pupil learning, enabling them to identify those who may need additional support, particularly in light of learning gaps caused by the pandemic. Leaders responsible for special educational needs and disabilities demonstrate a strong understanding of the needs of these pupils, ensuring they receive timely and effective support.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular opportunities that promote pupils' wider development, including participation in the eco committee and school council. Collaborations with local sports teams help develop resilience and teamwork skills. The safeguarding arrangements at Rodmarton Primary School are effective, with staff trained to identify and address potential risks to pupils. The curriculum also includes lessons on internet safety, further ensuring pupils understand how to stay safe.
To improve further, the school must ensure that the curriculum clearly identifies the key knowledge and skills pupils need to learn, allowing for better sequencing of learning and building on prior knowledge. This will help ensure that all pupils progress effectively through the curriculum across all subjects. Overall, Rodmarton Primary School continues to provide a supportive and enriching educational experience for its pupils.
