Rosendale Primary School, located in West Dulwich, London, has recently undergone an inspection by Ofsted, which took place on April 18 and 19, 2024. The school has received an overall effectiveness rating of outstanding, reflecting its commitment to providing high-quality education and a supportive environment for its pupils. The inspection evaluated various aspects of the school, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision, all of which were rated as outstanding.
The headteacher, Kate Atkins, leads the school, which is part of the Dunraven Educational Trust. The trust is overseen by CEO David Boyle CBE and a board of trustees chaired by Helen George. This structure ensures that the school benefits from strong governance and support. Notably, Rosendale Primary School has not been previously inspected under section five of the Education Act 2005, but it was previously judged to be outstanding before becoming an academy.
The school is characterized by a positive and nurturing atmosphere where pupils thrive. Relationships among staff and students are built on trust and respect, creating a welcoming environment. Pupils feel safe and secure, knowing that staff are dedicated to their well-being. The school promotes a strong understanding of right and wrong, with a zero-tolerance policy towards discrimination and bullying. Parents and carers express high levels of satisfaction, often describing the school as happy, wonderful, and exceptional.
Rosendale Primary School has high expectations for both behavior and academic achievement. The curriculum is ambitious and well-planned, ensuring that learning builds progressively over time. Staff receive extensive training to enhance their subject knowledge, which contributes to the effectiveness of teaching. As a result, pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, are exceptionally well-prepared for their transition to secondary school.
Pupils exhibit exemplary behavior, demonstrating focus and engagement during lessons. They participate actively in discussions, showing respect for differing opinions. Many pupils take on leadership roles, such as house captains and young leaders, which fosters a sense of responsibility and pride.
The curriculum is meticulously designed, allowing all pupils to access content confidently. Teachers regularly revisit previously learned material, reinforcing knowledge and understanding. In subjects like mathematics and history, key themes are revisited to help embed new ideas into long-term memory. The school also emphasizes the importance of early reading, with a strong focus on phonics instruction. Staff are well-trained in teaching reading, ensuring that pupils develop into accurate and fluent readers.
The school’s approach to personal development is commendable, with staff actively identifying and nurturing pupils' talents. Educational visits and a variety of clubs, such as Mandarin and art, enrich the pupils' experiences. Attendance is prioritized, and the school collaborates with parents to address any barriers to regular attendance.
Staff members report high levels of job satisfaction, citing effective support for their professional development and a healthy work-life balance. The trust is well-led and shares high ambitions for all pupils, ensuring that governance is effective and aligned with the school’s priorities.
Overall, Rosendale Primary School exemplifies excellence in education, providing a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for its pupils. The commitment to high standards in teaching, behavior, and personal development contributes to the outstanding outcomes observed during the inspection.
