Rawmarsh Ashwood Primary School, located in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, underwent an inspection on November 7 and 8, 2023. The overall effectiveness of the school was rated as requiring improvement, which reflects ongoing challenges in certain areas of educational delivery. The quality of education was also assessed as requiring improvement, while behaviour and attitudes, as well as personal development, were rated as good. Early years provision received a good rating, indicating a strong foundation for younger learners.
The headteacher, Dawn Roper, leads the school, which is part of the Wickersley Partnership Trust. This partnership means that the school is supported by a wider network of educational leaders, including CEO Helen Claire O’Brien and trustee chair Stephen Calvert. The school has a clear vision for high-quality education, particularly for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. However, despite these ambitions, pupils are not achieving as well as expected in reading and writing by the end of key stage two. The curriculum design in some areas does not adequately support the development of these essential skills.
Pupils at Rawmarsh Ashwood Primary School report feeling happy and safe, with strong attendance rates supported by effective procedures. They enjoy positive relationships with staff, which contributes to a supportive learning environment. Behaviour in lessons and around the school is generally good, with pupils adhering to the expectations set out in the school's behaviour policy, known as The Ashwood Way. This framework encourages cooperation and respect among students, and pupils appreciate the rewards system in place for positive behaviour.
The school has made strides in curriculum development since the last inspection, with a focus on ensuring that important knowledge is outlined across most subjects. The mathematics curriculum is ambitious, and staff have received training to enhance their teaching practices. In science, the curriculum aims to foster a positive attitude towards the subject, and pupils demonstrate confidence in their learning.
Phonics instruction has been revamped, with staff trained to deliver a new programme effectively. Children in the early years develop essential listening and attention skills, preparing them for phonics lessons in Reception. However, some pupils in key stage one struggle with phonics knowledge, which affects their participation in lessons. The school provides additional support outside of lesson time, but gaps in knowledge remain a concern.
In the early years, the curriculum builds on children's existing knowledge and skills, with a focus on language development and vocabulary enhancement. Activities are designed to support learning across various areas, ensuring children are well-prepared for key stage one.
Despite the positive aspects of the school, there are areas for improvement. The school needs to address the phonics provision for key stage one pupils to ensure they catch up quickly. Additionally, there is a lack of regular opportunities for key stage two pupils who are still learning to read to read to an adult, which hinders their progress and understanding.
Trustees and governors demonstrate a good understanding of the school's improvement priorities and monitor progress effectively. Staff express positive sentiments about the leadership and support they receive, particularly regarding workload and well-being. The safeguarding arrangements in place are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils.
Overall, while Rawmarsh Ashwood Primary School has made progress in several areas, there are significant challenges that need to be addressed to enhance the quality of education and ensure all pupils achieve their potential.
