Pamphill is a small school and this gives it some particular characteristics. Small means flexible, eg. we can be spontaneous in our responses to children's needs. There is a high level of participation for everyone - children quickly take on responsibilities within the school.   They are all involved in whatever is happening. We can accommodate individual needs and respond to the children's enthusiasms and interests.

We have mixed age classes.   Prospective parents may wonder how this works, but we know that this can have positive benefits for the children.   A 'bright' child entering the school will instantly have the opportunity to work with older children.   The 'average¹ entrant has many older children in the class who are able to guide and assist. The experience of helping the younger children allows the older ones to deepen their own understanding and to take on responsibility at an early age.   The teacher often works with the children as individuals or in small groups so that the children have work to match their ability irrespective of age.

Because we have mixed year classes much of the work is planned on a two year rolling programme. This ensures stability and continuity for the children and makes the curriculum more manageable for teachers. The ability range in a two year class is sometimes very close to that found in a single age class. For this reason, and because is it more manageable, mixed year classes are treated as mixed ability classes and work is planned and children grouped on that basis.

We have small intakes and the reception children enter into a happy and settled working atmosphere where the school routines are established.   This enables new children to settle very quickly.

The Governors and staff of Pamphill First School Wish to:

Foster the academic and personal development of each child. In a Christian, caring and friendly community, so that each individual is challenged to make the fullest use of their talents. Developing those skills and positive attitudes which will best prepare them for the future.