St Ann's Primary School, located on St Leonard's Road in Eastwood, Rotherham, South Yorkshire S65 1PD, recently underwent its first inspection under the Education Act 2005 on 20 and 21 September 2023, receiving an overall effectiveness rating of Good. Led by Headteacher Lee Rowan, the school is dedicated to providing a nurturing and inclusive environment for its 364 pupils aged 3 to 11.
The school stands out for its emphasis on building strong relationships among pupils and staff, creating a safe and welcoming atmosphere where students feel secure and valued. The culture of acceptance and understanding is evident, with a focus on diversity and inclusivity. Pupils express that equality is important at St Ann's, ensuring that nobody misses out on support and opportunities.
In terms of the quality of education, St Ann's has implemented an effective curriculum that is well-structured and clearly defined, particularly in core subjects like mathematics and reading. The school places a strong emphasis on early reading skills through a precise phonics program, encouraging a love for reading among students. However, there is a noted need for improvement in pupils' retention of knowledge from the wider curriculum, which the school has identified as a priority for development.
Behaviour and attitudes at St Ann's are commendable, with classrooms characterized by calmness and minimal disruptions, thanks to staff members' adept management of behaviour, especially for pupils with additional needs. The school also has a robust approach to bullying, ensuring that incidents are swiftly and effectively addressed.
Personal development is promoted through a variety of extracurricular activities, including clubs, charity events, and educational trips. The breakfast club offers a relaxed start to the day, fostering social connections among pupils and parents.
Under the leadership of the trust's chief executive officer, David Silvester, and the chair of trustees, Martin Harrison, St Ann's is committed to continuous improvement. Staff members feel supported in their roles, with a focus on well-being and workload management.
The early years provision at St Ann's is ambitious and well-planned, emphasizing vocabulary development and communication skills. However, there is room for enhancement in outdoor learning activities, which currently do not offer the same level of engagement as indoor activities.
Safeguarding is a top priority at the school, with effective arrangements in place to ensure the welfare of all pupils. While St Ann's has many strengths, the school acknowledges the need to solidify pupils' knowledge in the wider curriculum and enhance outdoor learning experiences in the early years. The leadership team is actively working on these areas to provide a well-rounded education for all students.
In conclusion, St Ann's Primary School exemplifies a commitment to high standards in education, personal development, and inclusivity. With a clear vision for improvement and a supportive community, the school is well-positioned to continue its journey of excellence in education. Parents and guardians are encouraged to engage with the school through Ofsted Parent View to share their experiences and feedback. For more information, visit the school's website: St Ann's Primary School.
