Business Details
Trusted Primary School in Calne, Wiltshire
We are a Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School located in the heart of Derry Hill village, committed to providing a safe, happy, and secure environment for children to thrive. Our Christian values underpin an inclusive and caring ethos where individuality is celebrated, and every child is supported to reach their full potential. We deliver a rich, broad curriculum that builds on prior knowledge while fostering excitement and wonder through innovative teaching methods. Our extensive wider curriculum includes forest school, sports competitions, mindfulness, music lessons, and after-school clubs. We maintain strong links with Christ Church and the local community, celebrating success and nurturing lifelong learners.With a focus on academic excellence alongside personal, social, moral, and creative development, we build confidence, self-esteem, and resilience in our pupils. Visits for prospective families are welcomed throughout the year, offering firsthand insights into our school community. Our dedicated team of staff and governors share a collective commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children. We believe in creating an environment where children feel empowered to 'have a go' and seek support when needed. Our facilities include classrooms, a library, computing suite, outdoor classroom, sensory garden, vegetable patches, and access to Bowood Estate for forest learning opportunities.
Services
Primary Education
Safeguarding
Curriculum Development
SEND Support
Forest School Program
Extracurricular Activities
Community Engagement
Admissions Guidance
Parental Support
Outdoor Learning
Highlights and features
- We foster an inclusive, caring ethos rooted in Christian values.
- Our rich curriculum combines academic rigor with creative learning approaches.
- We offer unique forest school experiences through Bowood Estate access.
- Our dedicated staff maintain strong community connections and individual support.
- We provide extensive extracurricular opportunities including sports and music programs.
Services
Primary Education
We deliver a comprehensive primary education program for children aged 4-11, following the National Curriculum while incorporating creative and experiential learning approaches. Our dedicated teachers provide differentiated instruction in core subjects including English, mathematics, and science, alongside foundation subjects. The curriculum is enhanced through cross-curricular topics and real-world learning experiences that engage pupils and develop critical thinking skills.
Forest School Program
Our unique forest school program utilizes the Bowood Estate grounds to deliver hands-on outdoor education experiences. Children develop practical skills, environmental awareness, and teamwork through structured activities in natural settings. This program supports curriculum objectives while promoting physical development, risk assessment abilities, and appreciation for nature through regular, long-term access to woodland learning environments.
SEND Support
We provide tailored support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities through our dedicated SENCO and specialist teaching assistants. Individualized learning plans, targeted interventions, and inclusive classroom strategies ensure all children can access the curriculum. Our team works closely with parents and external professionals to create supportive environments that address diverse learning requirements and promote academic progress.
Extracurricular Activities
We offer a wide range of extracurricular activities including sports teams, music lessons, and creative arts programs. These activities extend learning beyond the classroom, developing new skills and interests while fostering teamwork and leadership. Our partnerships with local organizations enhance provision, and our on-site facilities support diverse physical and creative pursuits that complement academic development.
Community Engagement
We maintain strong connections with Christ Church and the wider Derry Hill community through regular events and collaborative projects. This includes intergenerational activities, local history studies, and participation in church services. Our community-focused approach helps children develop social awareness while creating meaningful links between school life and village traditions that enrich the educational experience.
People
Mrs Hayley Roberts
Headteacher
Mrs Roberts leads with a commitment to Christian values and child-centred education, bringing extensive experience in primary leadership and safeguarding. She champions holistic development.
Mr Martyn Riley
Deputy Headteacher
Mr Riley oversees Year 4 teaching and deputy leadership responsibilities, contributing specialist expertise in curriculum delivery and staff development across the school.
Mrs Emma Asfaw
SENCO
As Special Educational Needs Coordinator, Mrs Asfaw provides expert support for pupils with additional needs, implementing tailored learning strategies and coordinating specialist interventions.
Questions
What age range does the school cater for?
We educate children from Reception (age 4) through to Year 6 (age 11) in single-aged group classes.
How does the school support special educational needs?
Our dedicated SENCO and specialist teaching assistants provide individualized support plans, targeted interventions, and inclusive learning strategies tailored to each child's requirements.
Are there extracurricular activities available?
We offer diverse after-school clubs including sports teams, music lessons, and creative arts programs that change seasonally to match pupil interests.
What outdoor learning opportunities exist?
Our forest school program uses Bowood Estate grounds for regular outdoor education, complemented by on-site gardens and outdoor classroom facilities.
How can parents visit the school?
Prospective families can book guided tours through our school office at 01249 812139 during term time for firsthand experience of our learning environment.
What Christian values underpin the school?
Our ethos is built on love, respect, and community, with regular collective worship, Bible-based learning, and partnerships with Christ Church shaping our moral framework.