Ravenfield Primary Academy, located in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on April 18 and 19, 2023. The school is characterized by a positive atmosphere where pupils express a strong enthusiasm for their learning experiences. They appreciate the diverse range of activities provided, which are aligned with the school's vision of delivering exceptional experiences that lead to successful lives. The commitment of the staff to uphold high expectations for every pupil is evident, contributing to a calm and orderly learning environment.
Pupil behavior is commendable, with excellent conduct observed both in lessons and throughout the school. Students report that bullying is not an issue, and they feel confident that adults would intervene if necessary. The school fosters a sense of fairness and kindness, creating a friendly community. An extensive array of extracurricular activities, including after-school clubs and educational trips, enriches the pupils' experiences. Recent activities have included nature explorations for younger students and adventurous residential trips for older pupils, which have helped them develop new interests and skills.
The curriculum at Ravenfield Primary Academy is ambitious and spans from Nursery to Year 6. Leaders have carefully identified key knowledge that pupils should retain across various subjects. Mathematics instruction is particularly well-structured, allowing students to practice and apply their knowledge effectively. Teachers regularly assess pupils' understanding and revisit previous learning to reinforce retention. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that the curriculum is equally robust across all subjects. Some subjects, such as art and music, have been identified as needing further development to provide a more expansive learning experience.
Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities is a strong point of the school. Adaptations are made to ensure these pupils can access the curriculum effectively, with tailored plans that outline the necessary steps for their learning progress. Reading is prioritized, with daily read-aloud sessions and a well-implemented phonics scheme that begins in Nursery. This focus on literacy ensures that pupils develop a love for reading and are supported in their journey to becoming proficient readers.
The school promotes healthy lifestyles and fundamental British values, preparing pupils to be responsible citizens. Opportunities for pupils to engage with issues that matter to them, such as fundraising and writing to influential figures, are integral to their education. The school aims to provide a wide range of experiences beyond the classroom, ensuring that by the end of key stage one, every pupil has had the chance to visit the seaside, among other experiences.
Governance at Ravenfield Primary Academy is effective, with governors actively involved in the school's life and well-informed about its operations. They monitor the impact of policies and support the school's ambitions for its pupils. Safeguarding measures are robust, with staff trained to recognize and respond to potential risks to pupil welfare. The curriculum also includes lessons on safety, particularly in relation to technology use.
While the school has many strengths, it is essential for leaders to continue developing the curriculum to ensure that all subjects provide a comprehensive learning experience. The school remains committed to enhancing its educational offerings and maintaining its good standing in the community.
