Roughwood Primary School, located in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on February 16 and 17, 2022. The school demonstrates high expectations for its pupils, fostering an environment where students are focused and eager to excel. The staff encourages pupils to showcase their knowledge and skills, whether through their written work or by engaging in classroom discussions.
The leadership at Roughwood Primary is commendable, particularly in promoting the wider development of pupils. Opportunities for leadership roles are abundant, with initiatives such as stair monitors and the ‘Willow Tree Warriors’ focusing on online safety. The school also prioritizes access to extracurricular activities, including sports and music, ensuring that all pupils have the necessary resources to participate. The emphasis on personal, social, health, and economic education equips students with a solid understanding of essential concepts like respect and consent. This education extends to teaching about diversity, including LGBT issues and various faiths, fostering a culture of empathy and respect within the school community.
Pupils feel secure and supported, knowing whom to approach with any concerns. The school effectively addresses incidents of bullying, ensuring that issues are resolved promptly and appropriately. The leadership has made significant improvements since the school became an academy, implementing an ambitious curriculum and providing staff training to enhance teaching quality. The curriculum is designed to ensure that pupils retain essential knowledge across subjects, with teachers revisiting previously taught concepts to reinforce learning.
In subjects like art and design, pupils learn various techniques, enabling them to apply their knowledge creatively. Teachers provide clear explanations and model tasks effectively, which helps pupils succeed and build confidence in their abilities. The introduction of a new phonics curriculum has been positively received, with staff receiving training to support its implementation. This initiative has already shown benefits in improving reading skills among pupils, with additional support available for those needing extra help.
While the school excels in many areas, there are aspects that require further attention. The curriculum for early years, particularly in the two-year-old and three- and four-year-old nurseries, lacks the precision seen in other parts of the school. Some activities do not build effectively on prior knowledge, which can hinder children's readiness for Reception. Leaders are encouraged to enhance the planning of the early years curriculum to ensure continuity and progression in learning.
The school demonstrates a strong commitment to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, maintaining high expectations and ensuring inclusion in classroom activities. The restorative practice approach adopted by the school helps address behavioral issues constructively, reducing the frequency of incidents.
Overall, Roughwood Primary School has established a positive learning environment characterized by high expectations, effective leadership, and a commitment to pupil development. The school is well-regarded for its safeguarding measures, with staff trained to recognize and respond to concerns promptly. The supportive atmosphere, combined with a focus on academic and personal growth, positions Roughwood Primary as a commendable institution within the community. Continued efforts to refine the early years curriculum will further enhance the educational experience for all pupils.
