BEECHWOOD PRIMARY SCHOOL in Cheshire, Runcorn

Education Centre Information: Beechwood Primary School:

Establishment Type:Community School
Phase of Education: Primary
Status: Open
Local Authority: Halton
Boarders: No Boarders
Sixth Form: Does not have a sixth form
Urban/Rural Description: Urban > 10k - less sparse
Special Classes: No Special Classes
Religious Character: Does not apply
Nursery Provider: No Nursery Classes
Total Pupils: 132
Number of boys: 69
Number of girls: 63
Age Range: 5-11
Gender: Mixed
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Background:

The school was built in 1976 to serve the needs of Beechwood West, a private estate on the outskirts of Runcorn. It is housed in an open plan building situated in 'pleasant' grounds which are set back from Beechwood Avenue and which have been developed to provide a 'stimulating environment' for pupils. The grounds featured in a Times Educational Supplement article on developing school sites. It is 'noted throughout the area for the high quality of service it delivers to its community'. The curriculum is 'broad and well balanced' and based on the core subjects of the national curriculum. The standard of behaviour of its pupils is 'exceptional' and it attracts children from well beyond its immediate catchment area. After-school and pre-school clubs are held in two specially designed mobile classrooms, and pupils can do a variety of activities from drama to computers, doing homework or just watching television. The clubs are designed specifically for working parents. There is also an early years group and a 'mums and tots' group. The local church holds a service in the school every Sunday and the school plays host to youth groups and local dance groups. Beechwood is 'particularly noted for its achievements in the arts', particularly music. It is the 'only primary school in the area to run a school orchestra'. The school is involved in several fund raising projects on a regular basis for local, national and international children's and cancer charities. The school'sets out 'to provide an environment in which every child can develop to the best of his or her abilities' and aims 'to pass on to the next stage of their education children who enjoy learning, are confident in their own achievements and value themselves and their place in society'.