OVERLEIGH ST MARY'S COFE PRIMARY SCHOOL in Cheshire, Chester

Education Centre Information: Overleigh St Mary's CofE Primary School:

Establishment Type:Voluntary Controlled School
Phase of Education: Primary
Status: Open
Local Authority: Cheshire West and Chester
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: Church of England
Diocese: Diocese of Chester
Nursery Provider: No Nursery Classes
Total Pupils: 424
Number of boys: 222
Number of girls: 202
Age Range: 4-11
Gender: Mixed
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Background:

The school was founded in 1952 as a Roman Catholic modern school. In 1972 it became Overleigh Middle school and in 1984 Overleigh St Mary's CE Primary. It is accommodated in a 'large, spacious', single story building with four infant classes, 14 junior classes and a moderate learning difficulties (MLD) unit for 24 pupils. Other facilities include a hall, gymnasium, canteen, swimming pool, tennis courts and 55 acres of playing fields. The school and the parent-teacher association (PTA) are jointly developing the grounds to include a wildlife and pond area. The school is situated one mile from the centre of Chester. The school aims to provide a 'broad, balanced, relevant education which incorporates the national curriculum'. Extra-curricular activites include three choirs, an orchestra made up of over 70 pupils, instrumental lessons, keyboard lessons, a drama club, computer club, wildlife, sewing, football, table tennis, basketball, netball, judo, cricket, rugby, athletics and dance. The choir recently took part in the county competition and won first prize. The school is also proud to have been finalists at the national swimming gala, while the drama group recently performed 'The Lady of Shalott and art work is often displayed at county level. The school has 'good links' with the nursery school, other local schools, the church, and the local community through staff and pupil contact and involvement. Each year the school identifies two or three charities and holds several events throughout the year to support them.