Rise Park Primary and Nursery School, located in Nottinghamshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on January 11 and 12, 2022. The school fosters a positive environment where pupils take pride in being part of the community, often referring to themselves as ‘Rise Parkers.’ The warm greetings from staff each morning contribute to a welcoming atmosphere, and pupils express happiness in attending school. They demonstrate good behavior and respect for one another, creating a calm and purposeful environment. The school promotes a sense of belonging, with pupils celebrating each other's achievements on the ‘Wall of Wonder.’
Bullying is reported to be rare, and pupils feel safe, knowing that any incidents will be addressed promptly by school leaders. The school emphasizes the importance of safety, including online safety, and pupils are well-informed about how to protect themselves. Staff maintain high expectations for all pupils, encouraging them to strive for their best in all endeavors. Classrooms are engaging and enjoyable, fostering a love for learning.
Pupils are given various responsibilities, such as house captains and peer mediators, which allows them to contribute meaningfully to school life. They feel their voices are heard, and their input helps improve the school. The leadership team has clearly defined the skills and knowledge that pupils should acquire, ensuring a structured approach to learning across subjects. In languages, for instance, key vocabulary is identified for each year group, and teachers are focused on revisiting previous learning to reinforce knowledge retention. However, this consistency is not yet fully realized in all subjects, particularly in music and mathematics.
The school prioritizes phonics and reading, with children starting phonics learning in early years. They read books that align with their phonetic knowledge, and teachers actively promote a love for reading. Pupils enjoy reading both in school and at home, participating in initiatives like ‘reading discos’ that reward their efforts. Mathematics is another area where pupils show enthusiasm, although some older pupils find the work too easy and require additional challenges. Occasionally, teachers may not break down new concepts into manageable steps, which can hinder understanding for some younger pupils.
Early years education is strong, with children learning collaboratively and being well-prepared for their transition to Reception. Leaders in Nursery and Reception work closely to understand each child's needs, fostering polite and confident learners. The school effectively identifies the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they have access to the full curriculum and appropriate support.
Pupils' personal development is a key focus, with life and social skills being taught effectively. A variety of after-school clubs, including sports and creative activities, are well-attended, providing additional opportunities for engagement. The school promotes democracy and respect, with pupils celebrating diversity and understanding its importance in society.
Governors are actively involved in the school’s operations, ensuring safeguarding procedures are robust and that the welfare of pupils and staff is prioritized. The local authority has supported the school in enhancing leadership effectiveness, and staff appreciate the professional development opportunities provided. Overall, Rise Park Primary and Nursery School continues to demonstrate a commitment to providing a high-quality education and a supportive environment for all its pupils.
