Roundswell Community Primary Academy, located in Barnstaple, Devon, has recently undergone its first inspection since opening in September 2020. The inspection, conducted on June 13 and 14, 2023, evaluated the school’s overall effectiveness and found it to be good across all areas, including the quality of education, behavior and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The school has a strong focus on creating a nurturing environment where pupils feel happy and confident. Parents have expressed their appreciation for the dedicated staff, noting that they genuinely care for the students.
Pupils at Roundswell are engaged learners who benefit from a curriculum that promotes resilience and curiosity. The school employs innovative tools, such as learning power puppets, to help students develop essential skills like perseverance. The behavior of pupils is commendable, with a clear understanding of respect and the importance of making good choices. The early years staff effectively support children in developing social skills and understanding the significance of kindness. Disruptions during lessons are rare, allowing for a focused learning environment.
The curriculum is designed to be engaging, and pupils express enjoyment in their studies. They learn about their local community, which is integrated into the curriculum, and have recently participated in extracurricular activities such as art and football clubs. Leaders have taken proactive steps to address learning gaps caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in early reading. A well-structured phonics curriculum is in place, with regular assessments to monitor pupils' progress. This approach has proven effective, as pupils are developing strong reading skills and a love for literature.
While the school excels in many areas, there are opportunities for improvement, particularly in the wider curriculum. Leaders are working to enhance the curriculum by identifying key knowledge that pupils need to acquire. In subjects like art and design, pupils demonstrate confidence in discussing influential artists and their styles. However, in some areas, the essential knowledge required for future learning has not been fully defined, which may hinder pupils' preparedness for subsequent stages of their education. Additionally, subject leaders need to better understand the impact of the curriculum on pupils' learning to make informed adjustments.
The special educational needs coordinator provides valuable support to staff, ensuring that the needs of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are effectively met. This support enables these pupils to engage successfully with the curriculum. The emotional well-being of pupils is also prioritized, with staff providing the necessary support for those with emotional needs.
In the early years, children quickly form strong relationships with staff, who use effective questioning techniques to extend learning. By the time they reach the Reception Year, children demonstrate independence in their self-care and learning activities. Personal development is a key focus for leaders, who aim to instill values of respect and equality in pupils. They engage in discussions about friendship and family diversity, enhancing their understanding of modern British life.
Parents are overwhelmingly positive about the school community and the support provided by staff. The school fosters a welcoming atmosphere for families, encouraging their involvement in various events. Staff feel supported and valued, with leaders considering their well-being and workload.
The safeguarding measures in place are robust, with leaders emphasizing the importance of safety in all aspects of school life. Staff receive regular training, enabling them to identify and address concerns promptly. The school actively engages with external organizations to enhance pupils' understanding of safety, particularly in relation to their coastal community.
Overall, Roundswell Community Primary Academy is a good school that provides a supportive and engaging learning environment for its pupils. While there are areas for development, particularly in curriculum planning and assessment, the school is committed to continuous improvement and the well-being of its students.
