Rawmarsh Community School, located in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 9 and 10, 2022. The school is committed to providing a supportive environment that encourages academic achievement and personal development. The Rawmarsh Pledge reflects the school's dedication to preparing students for an ever-changing world, ensuring they are equipped with the necessary qualifications and confidence to succeed beyond their school years. Students express pride in their school and appreciate the opportunities available to them.
In terms of behavior, the school generally maintains a calm atmosphere during lessons. Staff effectively support students who require additional behavioral assistance. However, there are instances where some teachers do not fully implement the school's behavior policy, leading to less positive behavior in certain classes. The curriculum offered is ambitious and broad, with a strong emphasis on academic subjects complemented by additional experiences such as first-aid training and financial management. Over 200 students participate in The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme, highlighting the school's commitment to enrichment opportunities.
Students report feeling safe at school, although they acknowledge that bullying can occur, particularly outside of lessons. While most students believe that reported incidents are handled well, there is a desire for more frequent follow-ups from staff. Some students feel discouraged from reporting bullying, believing it to be a societal norm. The school leadership is aware of this perception and is actively working to change it.
The leadership team is dedicated to providing an education that prepares students for future success. They have made significant strides in ensuring that the curriculum is ambitious and accessible to all students. Notably, the school has increased the number of students studying modern foreign languages, addressing previous concerns about low participation rates. The Rawmarsh Pledges also encourage students to engage in community improvement projects, fostering a sense of responsibility and civic engagement.
Subject leaders are at various stages of implementing their curriculums, with some having developed detailed plans that build on prior learning. These plans include strategies to assess student readiness and follow-up tasks to reinforce learning. However, there is a need for further development in monitoring the effectiveness of these curriculums across all subjects.
Despite the positive aspects, the school faces challenges regarding bullying. An external review prompted by parental concerns led to changes in how bullying is addressed. While most students believe that bullying is managed effectively, parents have expressed less confidence in the school's response. There is a need for improved systems to ensure that follow-up checks are conducted after bullying incidents and that parents are informed of the outcomes.
The school is also aware of the potential for sexual harassment and has implemented a comprehensive social studies curriculum to educate students about respectful relationships. However, there is a gap in students' understanding of specific hurtful language, which can lead to unintentional harm. The leadership recognizes the importance of addressing this issue and is working to enhance students' awareness of appropriate language and behavior.
Overall, Rawmarsh Community School demonstrates a commitment to providing a supportive and enriching educational experience. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in addressing bullying and enhancing students' understanding of respectful communication, the school continues to strive for excellence in preparing its students for the future.
