Our school is a Church of England Aided Primary and Nursery School, for children aged 3 to 11 years.

We draw our pupils from the parish of St. Marychurch and the surrounding area. As a Church of England Aided School, we do not have a specifically designated area. Please refer to the admissions criteria outlined in a separate sheet. A close relationship exists between the Parish Church, the local community and the school.

The present building was opened in 1958 and has been extended on several occasions. 11 classrooms, a specially designed nursery, a Family Learning Centre / Computer Suite and a large hall provide the basic teaching areas. We are also fortunate to have a fine playing field, 2 playgrounds and a beautiful environmental area. Three library areas provide excellent facilities and a strong motivation for children to want to develop their interest and ability in reading.

There are approximately 290 children on roll in the main school. Classes normally contain no more than 30 children. Up to 45 children can be admitted in each age group. The School's Admissions Policy is explained fully in the Admissions booklet enclosed. Fifty-two half-time places are available in our Nursery.

The number of pupils places our school within Group 3.

The work of the school is determined by a School Improvement Plan, which is regularly reviewed, in a consultation process, which involves as much of the school community as is possible.

The School Council comprises of two elected representatives from each year group. They meet regularly, and have their own elected Chairperson, Secretary and Treasurer. Minutes are taken at each meeting, circulated to staff and posted on a notice board in the school.
The School Council had a major part in a recent School Improvement initiative. Following consultations with the Council and parents, we have been developing our grounds to include quiet areas for children to sit, and providing a more stimulating play environment for them at break and lunch times.

The Governors do much of their work in Committees (Curriculum, Finance, Personnel, & Premises), which meet at least once per term. The full Governing Body meets at least once per term. Amongst many other things, the School Governors are responsible for the appointment of staff.

Class organisation. Children are grouped into classes according to their chronological age. Some children are taught in mixed aged classes. However there is rarely more than two terms’ difference in the ages within any of our classes.

The teachers normally have responsibility for a class of children, which they teach for most of the week. However they also work in teams of teachers (Foundation, Infant, Lower Junior and Upper Junior), which plan together and support each other's teaching. Each area of the curriculum is co-ordinated by a particular teacher.