CASTOR COFE PRIMARY SCHOOL in Cambridgeshire, Peterborough

Education Centre Information: Castor CofE Primary School:

Establishment Type:Voluntary Controlled School
Phase of Education: Primary
Status: Open
Local Authority: Peterborough
Boarders: No Boarders
Sixth Form: Does not have a sixth form
Urban/Rural Description: Village - less sparse
Special Classes: No Special Classes
Religious Character: Church of England
Diocese: Diocese of Peterborough
Nursery Provider: No Nursery Classes
Total Pupils: 154
Number of boys: 82
Number of girls: 72
Age Range: 4-11
Gender: Mixed
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Background:

Established when the village infant and junior schools were combined in 1956, the school is situated in the middle of Castor village close to St Kyneburgha's Church. It occupies a site which is designated as a scheduled ancient monument because a nearby hill is the site of a Roman palace. Several archaeological investigations have taken place in the school grounds and Roman artefacts have been found. The original Victorian infant school now forms the school hall, with further accommodation which has since been added. Facilities include a playground and field which have been improved over the years, and a small wildlife and pond area which is now being developed. Children are drawn from local villages and, space permitting, further afield. The school is becoming increasingly popular, but all children in the catchment area are accepted, even if the year group is full. After-school activities include sports, country dancing, woodwind tuition and safer cycling, while older children have the opportunity to take part in a residential field week. As a village school, Caistor Primary is part of the local community. It is supported by an active friends group which raises funds for computers, staging, books and equipment. The school recently set up a 'walking bus', a scheme to escort children home. 'We aim to help children become balanced, socially competent and caring people, with a real sense of responsibility towards their classmates and the community. We also have a strong commitment to high achievement and expect children to work hard'.