Rocklands School, located in Lichfield, Staffordshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on July 6 and 7, 2022. The school provides a positive environment where pupils feel happy and safe, fostering strong relationships with both staff and peers. Students are engaged in their education, understanding the importance of their learning for their future. The curriculum is broad and balanced, allowing pupils to study a wide range of subjects, with a strong emphasis on reading, which is integrated into all areas of learning. Staff maintain high expectations and encourage pupils to read at appropriate levels, recognizing reading as a vital skill for adult life.
The school offers numerous opportunities for personal development through various experiences, including trips, clubs, and performances. Notably, pupils recently performed A Midsummer Night's Dream at a Birmingham theatre, showcasing their talents and confidence. The behavior of pupils is commendable, with no reported concerns regarding bullying. The school council's kind squad promotes positive interactions during social times, ensuring that all pupils feel included and supported.
While the curriculum reflects high aspirations for all pupils, there are areas for improvement. The implementation of the curriculum is not consistently strong across all subjects, leading to variability in the quality of pupils' work. Leaders are encouraged to ensure that all staff plan effectively to enable pupils to produce high-quality work consistently. The recent introduction of a new phonics scheme aims to enhance reading skills, but it has not yet been fully embedded, and not all staff are trained to deliver it effectively. This has resulted in some pupils not receiving the full benefits of the program.
In mathematics, most pupils learn well; however, there are instances where teachers move on to new concepts too quickly, before ensuring that all pupils have a solid understanding of the material. Leaders should focus on providing staff with the necessary knowledge and skills to deliver the mathematics curriculum effectively, ensuring that all pupils develop strong mathematical foundations.
The school excels in promoting pupils' broader development through spiritual, moral, social, and cultural education, delivered through lessons, assemblies, and various activities. Pupils participate in a range of extracurricular activities, including clubs and enrichment afternoons, which contribute to their overall development. The school is well-led, with leaders maintaining high expectations for themselves, staff, and pupils. Staff report feeling valued and supported in their professional development, contributing to a positive working environment.
Governance is effective, with those responsible understanding their roles and ensuring that the school has a clear vision and strategy. Parents express overwhelming positivity about the school, with many recommending it to others. The arrangements for safeguarding are robust, with staff trained to recognize and act on concerns promptly. Leaders are proactive in addressing safeguarding issues and ensuring that pupils learn how to keep themselves safe.
In summary, Rocklands School continues to be a good school, providing a supportive and enriching environment for its pupils. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in the consistency of curriculum implementation and staff training, the school demonstrates a commitment to fostering a positive educational experience for all students.
