Rolleston Primary School, located in Leicester, has undergone a recent inspection that has highlighted its overall effectiveness as good. The inspection took place on May 17 and 18, 2022, and marked a significant improvement from its previous grade of requires improvement. The school is characterized by a positive and caring environment where relationships among pupils and staff are respectful and supportive. Pupils express enjoyment in participating in various extracurricular activities that enhance their learning experiences, including sports and leadership roles such as play leaders and school councillors.
Behaviour at the school is commendable, with pupils demonstrating respect for one another's differences and a strong sense of belonging. They take pride in receiving awards for demonstrating positive character traits, such as perseverance. The school has established a culture where bullying is rare, and pupils feel confident that any issues will be addressed promptly by staff. The well-being of pupils is a priority, with many expressing that the school is a safe space for them to express their emotions.
Academically, pupils are eager to learn and achieve well across subjects. They enjoy reading a diverse range of books and effectively apply their arithmetic skills to solve problems. However, the inspection noted that the sequencing of the curriculum from early years to Year 6 requires further development. Some pupils, particularly those at the early stages of reading, do not receive the targeted support necessary to help them catch up quickly.
The school has made strides in ensuring that the curriculum is ambitious and well-structured. Subject leaders have identified essential knowledge for each subject, allowing teachers to deliver lessons in a logical order that builds pupils' knowledge over time. Despite this, consistency across all subjects remains a challenge, necessitating further refinement. Teachers benefit from subject-specific training, which enhances their understanding and delivery of the curriculum. In most subjects, resources are available to support effective teaching.
Reading is prioritized at Rolleston Primary School, with pupils having access to a wide variety of quality books. Daily reading sessions and literature-based activities help to expand pupils' vocabulary and comprehension skills. The school has implemented a consistent approach to phonics instruction, although some pupils still require more precise support to improve their reading skills.
In mathematics, the curriculum is ambitious and well-planned, enabling teachers to identify and address pupils' misconceptions effectively. Regular assessments help teachers determine areas that need revisiting, ensuring that pupils can apply their knowledge to problem-solving tasks.
The school is proactive in identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Leaders adapt the curriculum to meet these pupils' needs, involving parents and outside agencies when necessary. In the early years, children benefit from positive relationships and established routines that prepare them for learning. However, there is a need for consistency in the curriculum across all areas of learning to ensure children are well-prepared for their transition to Year 1.
Leaders prioritize the mental and physical well-being of pupils, encouraging resilience and respect for diverse beliefs and family structures. The governing body is knowledgeable about the school and supports leaders while considering staff workload and well-being. The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with staff receiving regular training and clear oversight of pupil welfare.
Overall, while Rolleston Primary School has made significant progress, there are areas for improvement, particularly in curriculum sequencing and targeted support for early readers. The school is committed to ensuring that all pupils receive the education and support they need to thrive.