Shoreham school encourages parents to take ‘video tour’

With protection measures still in place to keep students, teachers, and parents safe in light of the current pandemic, unfortunately this year the school cannot hold its usual open day. Instead, parents are invited to take a video tour of the school via the school website.

Additionally, they can book a telephone meeting with a member of staff to discuss any questions they may have.

As Headteacher, Kate Crees, noted: “When parents visit, they get to see our team in action. They also get to see how our children interact around the school. Parents frequently comment on how happy the children are and how enthusiastic they are about their own learning. We will do all that we can to communicate that to parents this year.”

A small, family-orientated school, at the very centre of the Shoreham community, St Peter's Catholic Primary School provides a calm, positive atmosphere for students to learn in. Teachers get to know every student personally, providing them with close care and attention, and working to inspire them to their full potential.

The school has consistently been placed in the top ten within West Sussex County Council for the past three years in attainment in reading, writing, and maths. In 2019, the school's progress scores were well above average.

“We aim high, and in 2018 we were placed in the top three per cent of the UK for progress,” Mrs Crees said.

“Results are not the most important things about us. We always advise parents not to focus on league tables and results when choosing a school for their child. We advise them to get in touch, ask questions and get a general feel for our setting. Parents tend to know quite quickly if we are the right place for them.

“There is a distinct family feel to St Peter’s. Each child is valued and cared for. We strive to make sure that they leave with the confidence and skills required to begin secondary school.”

Though the school is small, it benefits from a great deal of outdoor space, which is utilised across the curriculum.

The school is also extremely proud of the library, which was funded by an in-school business run by the children, and is stocked with a selection of the latest texts and the student's favourites to support their reading. “Reading is central to all that we do,” said Mrs Crees. “We foster a love of reading and a passion for books!”

In the wake of COVID, the school is fully modified to make it as safe as possible for children and their families, following government guidance and regularly update their risk assessments. “We have routines in place which keep us safe, but also keep things as normal as possible for the children,” said Mrs Crees. “In the event of the closure of a class or bubble, work is set remotely, and staff will maintain regular contact with our children.”

To take a video tour of the school, visit the website.