Rownhams St John’s Church of England Primary School in Southampton has been rated as good overall in its recent inspection. The school is characterized by its strong values of love, joy, and responsibility, which permeate its educational approach. Leaders maintain high expectations for all pupils, resulting in commendable achievements across various subjects, particularly in the early years where children quickly acquire essential knowledge and skills for their future learning.
Pupils at Rownhams enjoy a diverse range of inclusive clubs and trips that foster the discovery and development of their talents and interests. They take pride in leadership roles such as sports leaders, young governors, eco-leaders, and prefects, which instills a sense of citizenship and responsibility. The school environment is calm, with pupils moving sensibly between lessons and engaging positively during break times. They exhibit confidence in the school's commitment to addressing any unkind behavior, trusting that staff will intervene effectively.
The school prioritizes the safety and well-being of its pupils, fostering warm relationships among staff and students. Parents express satisfaction with the nurturing environment, noting the genuine care staff show for the children, contributing to their happiness in attending school daily.
Leaders are ambitious and have worked diligently to redesign the curriculum, ensuring it is both ambitious and well-structured across all subjects. Teachers are well-informed about what to teach and when, employing engaging activities that facilitate learning and allow for regular review of key content. However, in a few subjects, the curriculum is still developing, and teachers may not always effectively assess pupils' understanding, which can hinder their ability to recall learned material.
The reading curriculum stands out as a strength, with early years children introduced to phonics at the earliest stages. Staff are well-trained in delivering early reading instruction, and books are carefully matched to the sounds pupils know. This proactive approach ensures that any pupils falling behind receive timely support, enabling them to catch up quickly.
The early years provision is exceptional, with a bold curriculum that clearly outlines the key knowledge, skills, and vocabulary children need to learn. Leaders accurately assess children's starting points and set ambitious goals, ensuring that activities are closely aligned with learning objectives. The learning environment is rich with engaging opportunities, and leaders maintain rigorous tracking of children's progress while effectively communicating with parents.
The personal development of pupils is exemplary, with a continually updated personal, social, and health education program. Pupils learn about diversity and engage in cultural exchanges that enhance their understanding of global perspectives. They participate in various opportunities that promote well-rounded citizenship, including leadership roles and charity work, demonstrating kindness and community spirit.
The school is well-led and managed, with governors maintaining an accurate understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement. They support leaders through regular visits and collaboration with the diocese and local authority. Staff feel valued and are proud to work at the school.
Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with leaders prioritizing the safety of children and providing thorough training for staff. Staff are knowledgeable about identifying at-risk pupils and reporting concerns, ensuring timely support is provided. Overall, Rownhams St John’s Church of England Primary School is a nurturing and effective educational environment that supports the growth and development of its pupils.
