Business Details
Shaw Ridge Primary School - Excellence in Primary Education
We are a two-form entry primary school with a 24-place nursery catering for children aged 3-4, located in West Swindon. Our teaching facilities are enhanced by extensive outdoor spaces including a dedicated outdoor area for each class, a Unity Garden with a pond and vegetable plot, and a field with outdoor gym and running track. We deliver a broad and balanced curriculum designed to excite and engage pupils, with specialist teaching in subjects such as music, modern foreign languages, and computing. Our team of experienced educators includes subject specialists in areas like SENCO and early reading, supported by a dedicated administrative and support staff. As part of Grove Learning Trust, we benefit from collaborative resources while maintaining our unique identity.Our governance structure includes elected parent representatives and community members who ensure accountability and strategic direction. We actively engage parents through our Friends of Shaw Ridge association, which organises fundraising and community-building events. Our commitment to safeguarding and wellbeing is reflected in our policies and dedicated support staff. We maintain transparent communication through regular newsletters, term dates, and online payment systems. Our facilities are available for community use, reflecting our role as a local educational hub.
Services
Primary Education
Early Years Foundation Stage
Key Stage 1
Key Stage 2
Special Educational Needs
Outdoor Learning Programmes
Parent Engagement
Community Facilities Hire
School Catering Services
Safeguarding Support
Highlights and features
- We offer dedicated outdoor learning spaces for every class
- Our Unity Garden supports hands-on science and environmental education
- Specialist teaching in music, MFL, and computing enhances curriculum delivery
- Experienced SENCO and nurture support staff address individual learning needs
- Active parent-teacher association funds additional educational resources
Services
Primary Education
We provide comprehensive primary education for children aged 3-11 through a broad and balanced curriculum. Our two-form entry structure ensures personalised attention while maintaining academic standards. Specialist teachers deliver subjects including music, modern foreign languages, and computing, supported by experienced teaching assistants.
Early Years Foundation Stage
Our 24-place nursery offers early education for 3-4 year olds with dedicated outdoor learning spaces. The programme focuses on foundational skills through play-based learning, supported by qualified early years specialists and teaching assistants.
Special Educational Needs
We provide tailored support for pupils with special educational needs through our dedicated SENCO and nurture team. Individualised learning plans and small-group interventions ensure all children achieve their potential within an inclusive environment.
Outdoor Learning Programmes
Each class has direct access to dedicated outdoor learning spaces, including our Unity Garden with pond, vegetable plots, and wildlife areas. These facilities support cross-curricular learning in science, geography, and environmental studies through hands-on experiences.
Parent Engagement
We actively involve parents through regular communication channels and our Friends of Shaw Ridge association. The PTA organises fundraising events and community-building activities, with opportunities for parental volunteering and input into school development.
People
Mrs Sally Cowell
Head Teacher
Mrs Cowell leads our inclusive school with 20+ years' experience in primary education. She champions outdoor learning and community engagement, overseeing curriculum development and staff training. Her leadership focuses on pupil wellbeing and academic excellence.
Mr Joe Lee
Deputy Headteacher
Mr Lee supports school leadership with special responsibility for Year 6 pupils. He brings expertise in transition programmes and curriculum innovation, ensuring smooth progression to secondary education. He teaches across key stage 2.
Mrs Lindsay Westlake
Nursery Enquiries
Mrs Westlake manages nursery admissions and early years provision. With specialist training in early childhood development, she ensures our youngest pupils receive appropriate care and educational stimulation in their formative years.
Mr Phil Harland
Chair of Governors
Mr Harland chairs our academy committee with expertise in safeguarding and educational governance. He oversees strategic direction and accountability, ensuring the school meets its educational objectives while maintaining community representation.
Miss G Ramsay
Child and Family Support Worker
Miss Ramsay provides dedicated support for families and pupils, addressing non-academic barriers to learning. She coordinates wellbeing initiatives and connects families with external support services when needed.
Questions
What age range does Shaw Ridge Primary School cater for?
We accept children from age 3 in our nursery through to Year 6 (11 years old).
How do I apply for a school place?
Contact our admissions office via phone or visit our website's admissions section for application details.
What special facilities do you offer?
Each class has outdoor learning spaces, plus our Unity Garden with pond, vegetable plots, and wildlife areas.
Are after-school clubs available?
Yes, we offer various extracurricular activities through our community facilities and PTA partnerships.
How do you support children with special needs?
Our SENCO team provides individualised support plans and small-group interventions for pupils requiring additional help.
Can parents get involved in school activities?
Yes, our Friends of Shaw Ridge association organises events and welcomes parental participation in fundraising.
