Business Details
Thurlstone Primary School: Growing Together, Learning Together
Thurlstone Primary School is a small, rural primary school nestled in the peaceful village of Thurlstone, within the picturesque Pennines foothills. Established in 1880, we have cultivated a rich history of providing high-quality education while fostering a warm, caring, and nurturing environment. Our dedicated team is passionate about delivering a stimulating curriculum that encourages confidence, independence, and friendship, ensuring every child feels valued and empowered. We pride ourselves on our creative approach to learning, which excites imagination and nurtures a lifelong love of education.Our school community is built on strong ethical foundations, promoting resilience, empathy, and respect for individual differences. We actively engage parents and the local community, creating a collaborative atmosphere where children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Recognized by Ofsted for our exceptional standards, we remain committed to continuous improvement, ensuring our pupils develop into responsible, curious, and confident individuals ready to contribute positively to society.
Services
Early Years Education
Key Stage 1
Key Stage 2
Special Educational Needs Support
Outdoor Learning Programs
Highlights and features
- We provide a nurturing environment where every child is encouraged to shine.
- Our creative curriculum fosters confidence, independence, and lifelong learning skills.
- Recognized by Ofsted for exceptional pupil behavior and enthusiastic learning.
- Strong community partnerships enhance educational experiences and parental involvement.
- Dedicated staff committed to continuous improvement and personalized support.
Associations and certifications
- Ofsted
What people say
Happy and successful school
High levels of enthusiasm
Excellent pupil behaviour
Strong community hub
Committed leadership
Services
Early Years Foundation
Our Early Years program nurtures foundational skills through play-based learning. Children develop social, emotional, and cognitive abilities in a safe, stimulating environment. We follow the statutory framework for early years, ensuring school readiness while celebrating individual progress.
Key Stage 1
Key Stage 1 focuses on core literacy and numeracy skills through engaging, cross-curricular topics. Daily phonics and guided reading sessions build strong literacy foundations. Outdoor learning and creative projects make abstract concepts tangible and memorable for young learners.
Special Educational Needs Support
We provide tailored support for pupils with special educational needs, including high-needs provision. Our inclusive approach combines specialist resources, individualized learning plans, and collaboration with external professionals to ensure every child achieves their potential.
Outdoor Learning Programs
The Upcycle Park offers unique outdoor learning opportunities using recycled materials. Children engage in hands-on environmental projects, developing teamwork and creativity while connecting with nature through our forest school-inspired activities.
Cultural Enrichment
We offer theatre productions, art gallery visits, and residential trips to broaden cultural horizons. Partnerships with local artists and institutions provide authentic creative experiences that complement curriculum learning and personal development.
People
Mrs Charlotte Gibbins
Headteacher
Mrs Gibbins leads with a vision for holistic education, emphasizing creativity and community. With extensive experience in primary leadership, she champions inclusive practices and innovative teaching methods that prioritize pupil well-being and academic growth.
Mrs Zoe Baker
Headteacher
Mrs Baker co-leads the school with a focus on nurturing individual potential. Her expertise in curriculum development ensures engaging, child-centered learning experiences that align with national standards while celebrating local context.
Questions
What age groups do you teach?
We educate children aged 4-11 across seven single-age classes, from Reception through Year 6.
How do you support special educational needs?
Our dedicated SENCo provides tailored support, including individual learning plans and specialist resources, ensuring all pupils achieve their potential.
What outdoor learning opportunities exist?
Our Upcycle Park offers recycled-material play areas, while forest school activities and residential trips enhance environmental education.
How can parents get involved?
We encourage parental participation through curriculum events, community projects, and regular communication channels like our weekly newsletter.
What makes your curriculum unique?
Our creative, values-driven approach integrates cross-curricular topics with character development, fostering resilience, empathy, and global awareness.
How do you prepare children for secondary school?
We focus on independent learning skills, emotional resilience, and academic foundations through our 'Great Explorers' progression framework.
