Rockport School

Rockport promotes a non-selective, bespoke educational approach that prioritizes individual attention and character development. It fosters a spirit of adventure, a love for the outdoors, and a commitment to service, guided by the Round Square IDEALS of Internationalism, Democracy, Environment, Adventure, Leadership, and Service. The school aims to produce confident, well-rounded, and outward-looking global citizens who understand their responsibilities.

The school follows the National Curriculum, offering a pathway from preschool through to A Levels. It provides bespoke learning programmes tailored to individual needs, with small class sizes and a focus on preparing students for GCSEs and A Levels, as well as entrance requirements for other UK independent and grammar schools. The academic structure is divided into Early Years, Junior School, and Senior School, with a dedicated Sixth Form programme.

The school provides individualised learning support for pupils with specific learning difficulties (SpLD) or those requiring study skills assistance up to GCSE level. Support is delivered through 1-to-1 tuition with specialist teachers, typically withdrawn from classes with minimal disruption to core subjects. The school maintains close communication between the SENCO, specialists, parents, and teaching staff to ensure pupil well-being.

Rockport is a selective school that bases admission on academic merit and the potential for a pupil to contribute positively to the school community. The process requires a registration form, a reference from the applicant's current school, and an acceptance form, followed by a parent contract and deposit. Prospective families are encouraged to visit the school for a tour or a taster day, and the school welcomes international students, providing visa sponsorship for the duration of their studies.

The school operates on a three-term academic year. Open days are held throughout the year, and the school also offers a summer scheme.

Located on a woodland estate on the shores of Belfast Lough, the campus includes its own shoreline and is situated near the Mourne Mountains. The school features dedicated spaces for its various departments, including the McBride Room, which serves as a memorial room. The estate has seen the addition of new buildings and facilities over time to support its educational and boarding programmes.

The school emphasizes a spirit of adventure and service, with pupils from age 8 participating in hillwalking and sailing. There is nearly 100% participation in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in the senior school, and pupils frequently volunteer for community and environmental service. The school maintains a strong focus on sports, with daily games, and offers extensive opportunities in music and drama, alongside leadership and public speaking practice. A Golf Academy is also available.