Rowlatts Mead Primary Academy, located in Leicester, has recently undergone an inspection on October 3 and 4, 2023, and has been rated as good overall. The school is led by Principal Jennie Henson and is part of The Mead Educational Trust, which is overseen by CEO Sarah Ridley and a board of trustees chaired by Anthony Glover. The inspection highlighted several strengths of the school, particularly in the areas of behavior and attitudes, which were rated as outstanding, and early years provision, also rated as outstanding.
Pupils at Rowlatts Mead Primary Academy exhibit high levels of happiness and positive attitudes towards their education. They engage actively in their learning and demonstrate commendable behavior, contributing to a conducive learning environment free from disruptions. The school fosters a sense of safety and belonging among students, who appreciate the positive relationships they have with staff. The school promotes an understanding and celebration of diversity, with pupils expressing pride in the multicultural nature of their school community. They learn about various faiths and cultures, which helps them understand fundamental British values such as respect and tolerance.
The early years provision is particularly noteworthy, as children receive exceptional support in developing their social and communication skills, preparing them for future learning. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, ensuring that pupils acquire essential knowledge, vocabulary, and skills across all subjects. The school places a strong emphasis on reading, providing pupils with the necessary support to develop their reading skills and access the curriculum effectively. Mathematics instruction is also effective, with clear explanations and ample opportunities for practice, leading to strong pupil achievement in this area.
While the school excels in many aspects, there are areas identified for improvement. In some subjects, lesson activities do not consistently support pupils in building on their prior knowledge, which can hinder their learning and retention of important information. The school needs to ensure that all lesson activities are aligned with the curriculum's key knowledge and that they effectively reinforce what pupils have previously learned. Additionally, there is a need for more extracurricular opportunities and positions of responsibility for pupils, as the current offerings are limited. This lack of opportunities may prevent pupils from fully exploring their talents and interests outside the classroom.
The school has effective safeguarding arrangements in place, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. Staff members feel supported in managing their workload and well-being, contributing to a positive working environment. Leaders from the trust provide valuable support and maintain high expectations for pupil achievement.
Overall, Rowlatts Mead Primary Academy demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education for its pupils, with a strong focus on personal development and well-being. The school is well-regarded by its community, and with targeted improvements in curriculum delivery and extracurricular offerings, it has the potential to enhance its already strong performance further. The inspection findings reflect the school's dedication to fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment where all pupils can thrive.
