About Rockport

Rockport is the only school of its kind in Northern Ireland, i.e. an independent Pre-Prep, Prep and Senior School, based on public school lines. The Head is a full member of IAPS (Incorporated Association of Preparatory Schools) the largest association of Prep Schools in the UK with over 500 members. Belonging to this organization enables the school to be proactive in its approach to education, due to the professionalism of the organization and the high standard of training courses.

The school is also a member of the PNIBS (Partnership in Northern Ireland Boarding Schools), a smaller local organization, which keeps Rockport in touch with the remaining boarding schools in Northern Ireland.

Rockport accounts it success to its moving with the times – responding to the many and varied changes in the world of education, yet maintaining its emphasis on the individual pupil It prides itself in its mix of ability within the school and does everything possible to ensure that each pupil is encouraged to realise potential, whether inside or outside the classroom.

The school is made up of small classes, thus offering much more attention to the needs of the individual, at whichever end of the ability range. The maximum class size is eighteen, but teaching groups can range from three or four pupils further up the school, depending on setting arrangements.

Essentially Rockport, as a child-centred school, provides a well-balanced, rounded education in preparation for Rockport Senior School or some other Senior School. Pupils are made to feel they have something valuable to contribute – whether in the classroom, in music, in drama, on the sports field or elsewhere Rockport aims to give each pupil the capacity and confidence to live in an uncertain world, to encourage the pupils to work hard, to take a pride in achievement, to accept responsibility and to show concern for others.

Tradition is dear to all who pass through the school, but sufficient changes have been made to enable the school to meet the changing requirements of contemporary education.

Clubs & Activities

Rockport prides itself in the range of activities made available to boarders and day pupils. The clubs and activities on offer ensure that pupils have the opportunity to socialise and have fun with members of other year groups.

The ethos at Rockport is to educate the whole child, the range of clubs and activities caters for all individuals and pupils are actively encouraged to join at least one after school club. Clubs for the Prep School run after Supper, day pupils may stay and have supper before attending their club. Senior School Clubs may be after school or evening