Rowlands Castle St John's Church of England Controlled Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 27 January 2026

Rowlands Castle is a school that welcomes everyone. Staff greet pupils with a warm smile each day and show genuine care towards pupils. From the Reception Year to Year 6, pupils eagerly come into school each morning. Pupils feel safe and settled because nurturing staff know them so well. As soon as children start in the early years, they learn how to socialise and follow well-established routines. These become second nature so that pupils develop independence and confidence. Pupils are positive role models for others. They are proud ambassadors who speak enthusiastically about their school and the enrichment opportunities. The school offers a wide range of visits, clubs and activities. These include cookery, musical theatre and a variety of sports. These help to develop pupils’ talents and interests. The school has high expectations for behaviour and attendance. Typically, pupils meet these. Attendance is improving for most pupils. However, some pupils, for example those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), do not attend frequently enough. Playtimes are generally happy, harmonious occasions when pupils show genuine care for one another. Sometimes, pupils need more help to understand and manage their own behaviour. Staff swiftly step in to provide it. Bullying is rare, and relationships throughout the school are positive. Staff are ambitious for pupils' achievement, and pupils generally achieve well. This is reflected in the school’s published outcomes. Where pupils have gaps in their learning, leaders act to improve provision and offer appropriate support. Disadvantaged pupils and pupils with SEND receive carefully planned support to access learning. Pupils have positive attitudes and are proud of their work. However, there are some inconsistencies in how effectively the curriculum is taught in line with leaders’ clear intentions. Leaders are taking effective action, but it is too soon to determine the full impact of this work.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that the curriculum is delivered consistently well across all year groups so that pupils secure the knowledge needed for future learning. • Leaders should ensure that their work on pupils’ attendance has greater impact and leads to improved attendance and declining persistent absence.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)