THE BRITISH SCHOOL in Gloucestershire, Wotton under Edge

Education Centre Information: The British School:

Establishment Type:Foundation School
Phase of Education: Primary
Status: Open
Local Authority: Gloucestershire
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: None
Nursery Provider: No Nursery Classes
Total Pupils: 152
Number of boys: 84
Number of girls: 68
Age Range: 4-11
Gender: Mixed
View inspection reports

Background:

The British School was founded in 1835 by the people of the local churches of Wotton. Its first headmaster was Isaac Pitman who later invented shorthand. The school was originally located in the centre of town but moved to its present location in the 1970s when it outgrew the original site. The school is now housed in its third building after moving again in 1990 to 'light, well ventilated and maintained' premises which are kept 'bright and cheerful'. The 'large' grounds incorporate two playgrounds, a fields, a quiet area, woodland resource area and an adventure playground. 'The school emphasises that everyone is good at something and the challenge is to identify and develop it.' In keeping with this philosophy, there are 'many' extra-curricular activities including cookery, sports and chess. Members of the local community help staff to run these clubs and over 40 parental volunteers help in the school every week. A recent project had pupils designing and making a peice for the Millennium Tapestry in the Dome. Each year, pupils raise money for local and national charities and their successes are celebrated with a display on the charity board. The school has established links with schools in Italy, France and India through the Central Bureau and in 1999, won first place in the National Science Challenge.