|
All about us
Our Vision
We are a welcoming and supportive school, where everyone feels valued and respected in a happy, safe and stimulating environment. We aim to serve the community by providing education of the highest quality within the context of Christian belief and practice. We pride ourselves on high standards and encourage everyone to become confident lifelong learners, so that they are equipped to live life fully and to contribute to the lives of others.
Information about our school
The school has existed in its present form since 1995, when Birkenshaw C.E. First School, now known as the Key Stage 1 building, and Birkenshaw County First School, now known as the Key Stage 2 building, were amalgamated. A Nursery was added when the two schools became one. The school has an extensive and attractive site, which includes a well-established wildlife conservation area.
The Key Stage 2 building, which was opened in 1955, comprises five classrooms, a hall, a library, a new ICT suite, the Headteacher's and administrative offices and storerooms. The classrooms are self-contained units with their own cloakrooms and toilet facilities and direct access to outside teaching spaces and play areas. The building is home to the children in Years 3 and 4.
The younger children are based in the Key Stage 1 building, which dates from the early 1970s. It has six semi open-plan classrooms with shared areas, together with a hall, a library, a small group room, staff workspaces and storage facilities.
Organisation of Classes
The school is divided into 11 mixed ability classes. Because our Published Admission Limit of 66 conflicts with the Government's requirement that children in Reception and Years 1 and 2 should be taught in classes of no more than 30, it is necessary to have some mixed age classes at the lower end of school. In 2004 - 2005 there will be three mixed Reception/Year 1 and one mixed Year 1/Year 2 group. Children in mixed age classes are taught the curriculum appropriate to their year group.
The staff is made up of the Headteacher, fourteen teachers, nine Educational Teaching Assistants, three of whom work specifically with children with Special Educational Needs, two Nursery Nurses, a Bursar, two Clerical/Admin Assistants, and a Caretaker. We have nine Lunchtime Supervisory Assistants, six of whom also work as Educational Teaching Assistants.
Investor in People and Investors in Pupils status
Our aim is to provide a positive learning environment where children will achieve their full potential in a secure and happy atmosphere. Central to this is a close and supportive partnership between parents, staff and governors. More information can be found on Investor in Pupils here.
Our last OFSTED inspection was in November 2006. However, we are not resting on our laurels and we continue to strive to develop further for the benefit of the children.
|
