Ofsted rates Harpenden's Roundwood Park School 'outstanding'

An inspection report, now published following an inspection in November 2023, rated Roundwood Park as 'outstanding' in all five areas assessed.

The report praised the school's "highly ambitious curriculum" and "expert teachers".

The Ofsted document continues: "A broad and rich curriculum prepares pupils exceptionally well for the next steps in their education, employment or training.

"As a result, they achieve the very highest outcomes throughout the school. 

I am extremely proud of our staff, our students and the whole RPS community (Image: Roundwood Park School)

"The ‘super curriculum’ inspires pupils to complete extra learning outside school.

"They become ‘scholars’ and wear their scholars’ badges with pride.  

"There is a strong culture of reading in the school. Pupils read a wide variety of texts.

"Those pupils who struggle to read fluently when they join the school receive the right support to help them build their confidence."

The report also praised the school's Sixth Form, and the influence that it has on the rest of school's pupils: "Students in the Sixth Form plan and run house activities.

"They lead on initiatives to improve aspects of the school, such as how to make their community more sustainable.

"They also deliver the school’s tutoring programme for pupils in Years 10 and 11. Sixth Form students are excellent role models for others.

"Sixth Form students are supported by former students, who provide help for academic subjects and mentoring."

Headteacher Mr Alan Henshall spoke of his pride at Roundwood Park's Ofsted rating.

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He said: "I am extremely proud of our staff, our students and the whole RPS community, as this is only something we can accomplish when we work together.

"I would like to thank them for all that they have done to achieve this outcome."

A spokesperson for the school added: "We're so pleased to be part of a group of fantastic schools in Harpenden who work closely with each other for the benefit of all of the young people in our town."