Rolph Church of England Primary School and Nursery, located in Thorpe-le-Soken, Essex, was inspected on 29 and 30 June 2022. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as good, with the quality of education, personal development, leadership, and management also receiving a good rating. However, behaviour and attitudes were noted as requiring improvement. The school has maintained its previous inspection grade of good since its last evaluation in September 2016.
Pupils at Rolph Primary enjoy a broad and rich curriculum, engaging in various activities that foster their learning and development. They take pride in their achievements, particularly in sports and competitions. While pupils report that bullying occurs occasionally, they feel confident that it is addressed promptly by staff. However, there are instances in some lessons where pupils struggle to maintain focus, leading to disruptions in learning. This affects the overall learning experience for all students.
From the outset in Nursery, children are provided with numerous opportunities to explore and investigate through diverse activities. They are encouraged to develop skills across all areas of learning, fostering resilience and confidence in their interactions with adults and peers. The school’s values, including love, integrity, and fellowship, play a significant role in shaping the pupils' understanding of supportive friendships.
Leaders have established a well-defined curriculum that logically builds pupils' knowledge and vocabulary across subjects. In computing, for instance, pupils effectively apply their understanding of key terminology to navigate online information. Teachers regularly assess pupils' understanding, using this information to identify and address any misconceptions. However, in a few subjects, the assessment methods do not align closely enough with the taught knowledge, which can hinder teachers' ability to fully support pupils' learning.
Reading is a high priority for the school, with leaders ensuring that the reading curriculum is effectively implemented. Teachers are trained in systematic phonics instruction, enabling pupils to develop their reading skills progressively. This approach has fostered a love of reading among pupils, who are provided with books that match their learning needs.
Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities receive tailored support, allowing them to learn alongside their peers effectively. The school also emphasizes the importance of pupils' wider development, incorporating lessons on diversity and relationships through various activities, including assemblies and school trips.
While most pupils demonstrate respectful behaviour towards one another and adults, there are challenges with low-level disruptions in some classes. The school has recently introduced a new behaviour management approach, and while staff training is ongoing, consistency in its application remains a work in progress. Leaders are aware of the need for all staff to uphold high expectations for behaviour and learning.
Governors and trustees actively support the school, ensuring that leaders receive the necessary guidance and challenge to enhance educational quality. They are mindful of staff workload and well-being, contributing to a positive working environment.
The safeguarding arrangements at Rolph Primary are effective, with leaders conducting appropriate checks to ensure staff suitability. Staff are well-trained to identify potential safeguarding issues, and pupils feel safe and supported in voicing their concerns. The school collaborates with external agencies to provide necessary support for children and families.
In summary, while Rolph Church of England Primary School and Nursery demonstrates many strengths in its educational offerings and pupil support, there are areas for improvement, particularly in behaviour management and assessment practices. The school is committed to addressing these challenges to enhance the overall learning experience for all pupils.
