ST LAWRENCE CHURCH OF ENGLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL, ROWHEDGE in Essex, Colchester

Education Centre Information: St Lawrence Church of England Primary School, Rowhedge:

Establishment Type:Voluntary Controlled School
Phase of Education: Primary
Status: Open
Local Authority: Essex
Boarders: No Boarders
Sixth Form: Does not have a sixth form
Urban/Rural Description: Town and Fringe - less sparse
Special Classes: No Special Classes
Religious Character: Church of England
Diocese: Diocese of Chelmsford
Nursery Provider: No Nursery Classes
Total Pupils: 141
Number of boys: 74
Number of girls: 67
Age Range: 4-11
Gender: Mixed
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Background:

The school was founded in 1862 by the Church of England to serve the village of Rowhedge and surrounding areas. It moved from the original Victorian building to a new site in the early 1970s where it benefits from five class bases, each located in a modern building, and is commited to the ongoing development and improvement of the building to ensure it meets the needs of a modern curriculum. An 'extensive' IT suite is currently being developed which will provide an up-to-date facility for whole class teaching of ITC skills. There is a long-established grounds development committee of children, parents, governors and members of the local community, which has led to developments such as nature walks, a 'sizable' timber frame, tunnel, playhouse, shaded seating and a play area for early years. The school has recently obtained a sizable grant to continue developing the grounds. In a continuation of the planting programme for the millennium, the school plans to plant and build an outdoor classroom and to provide an area to grow organic, sustainable crops. Teaching is 'particularly strong' in the core curriculum areas and the school is very proud of its achievements in the arts. It is a member of the Arts in Schools Project and music is a 'particular strength'. Children are encouraged to participate in extra-curricular activities which nclude fun-fit, a choir and band, recorders and soccer skills club. Professional music lessons are also available. The school has developed strong community and business links and works closely with a local wildlife trust. St Lawrence School describes itself as 'a friendly, community centred school where children and staff are expected to treat each other with respect and dignity'.