ABOUT US

Many people are fascinated by the name of our school and the name itself makes us distinctive. You can find the origins of Mrs Ethelston by navigating to our school prospectus where you will also find lots of other useful information about the us.

We aim to be a family school which provides a happy and stimulating environment within our Christian ethos.

‘Our vision is to develop a thriving community which recognises each unique individual. We share an absolute commitment which:

• Succeeds by working together
• Offers a safe, happy and caring environment
• Sets high, realistic expectations to ensure individuals fulfil their potential
• Recognises and celebrates achievement
• Values honesty, sensitivity and responsibility in all relationships through our Christian values
• Prepares our children for lifelong learning and future opportunities

Starting school is a major step in any child's life, not to mention that of their parents and, in order to avoid any kind of trauma, we like to ease the transition into school. The School works closely with the local pre-schools and provides facilities each Thursday morning for four-year-old children to attend Woodhaven, the Key Stage 1 unit. This is designed to smooth the transition between pre-school education and school.

Initially new entrants attend School for afternoons only and progress to a full day after a short settling in period. An Induction Meeting for parents is held before the children start School to give information and to answer any questions.

Our Curriculum is broad and varied, and we are continually reviewing and adapting it, according to children's needs.

The requirements of the National Curriculum need to be met in each subject area. Within each class, the teaching is planned to match the abilities of each child. The Foundation Stage Profile is used with all Foundation Stage children. Children take statutory National Curriculum tests at the end of Years 2 and 6. In addition, Years 3, 4 and 5 are tested internally to give valuable information on whether targets have been met and to plan for future teaching.

Both the Axe Valley Academic Council (Devon) and the Woodroffe Pyramid (Dorset) are consulted in the development of the Curriculum. There is a regular liaison with local schools, both primary and secondary, to ensure common standards and continuity.

We strongly believe that a great deal of academic and social learning takes place outside the classroom. There is a range of clubs which meet regularly and these include sports, computer, choir, science, French and chess. Parental help is most welcome.