Business Details
Livingstone Primary School: Nurturing Young Minds in Bedford
Livingstone Primary School, established in 1893, is a historic institution located on the northern edge of Bedford's old heart. Our Victorian building, enhanced by a 2011 expansion, provides modern facilities while retaining architectural character. With 420 pupils aged 3-11 and 40+ languages represented, we celebrate diversity through inclusive practices and tailored support for non-native English speakers. Our curriculum combines National Primary Frameworks with creative, cross-subject learning, supported by specialist programmes like Twinkl Phonics and Accelerated Reader.The school's ethos centres on respect, tolerance, and determination, fostering academic excellence alongside social-emotional development. We maintain strong community ties through parental engagement initiatives, regular events, and partnerships with local organisations like the Early Childhood Partnership. Our dedicated staff, operating within a 32.5-hour weekly schedule, prioritise individualised learning while maintaining rigorous academic standards.
Services
Preschool Education
Primary School Curriculum
Language Support
Cultural Enrichment
After-School Care
Highlights and features
- Established 1893 with Victorian architectural heritage
- 40+ languages represented in multicultural environment
- Specialist phonics and reading programmes
- 32.5-hour weekly learning schedule with extended hours
- Strong community partnerships and parental engagement
What people say
Inclusive community
Dedicated teachers
Cultural diversity
Strong literacy focus
Supportive staff
Services
Preschool Education
Our Puffins Preschool offers structured morning and afternoon sessions for 3-4 year olds. The curriculum focuses on foundational skills through play-based learning, with dedicated staff supporting early literacy and numeracy development in a nurturing environment.
Primary Curriculum
We deliver the National Primary Curriculum through creative, cross-subject approaches. Specialised programmes like Twinkl Phonics and Accelerated Reader support literacy development, while practical activities reinforce mathematical and digital competencies across Years 1-6.
Language Support
Tailored induction programmes assist non-native English speakers, with staff trained in multilingual support. We offer cultural integration activities and home language preservation initiatives to maintain family linguistic heritage.
Cultural Enrichment
Celebrating 40+ represented languages, our curriculum includes global awareness projects and multicultural festivals. Students engage with international traditions through themed learning weeks and community partnership activities.
After-School Care
We provide supervised breakfast and after-school clubs operating from 8:45 AM to 3:30 PM. Activities include homework support, creative workshops, and outdoor play, with flexible booking options for working families.
People
Mr Thornes
Headteacher
Leading Livingstone Primary School since 2023, Mr Thornes brings 18 years of educational leadership experience. He champions inclusive learning environments and community engagement, maintaining the school's Victorian values while implementing modern teaching practices.
Mrs Large
Office Manager
Managing school administration since 2015, Mrs Large oversees admissions and daily operations. With 22 years in educational administration, she ensures smooth communication between staff, parents, and local authorities.
Mrs Bliss
Curriculum Coordinator
As senior teacher responsible for curriculum development, Mrs Bliss designs cross-subject learning projects. She has led the implementation of Twinkl Phonics and coordinates cultural enrichment activities across key stages.
Questions
What age groups do you accept?
We accept children from 3 years old through Year 6, offering Preschool, Reception, and Key Stages 1-2.
How do you support non-native English speakers?
We provide tailored induction programmes, multilingual staff support, and home language preservation initiatives for families requiring English language assistance.
What curriculum do you follow?
We follow the National Primary Curriculum with enhanced phonics instruction through Twinkl Phonics and Accelerated Reader programmes.
Are after-school clubs available?
Yes, we offer supervised breakfast and after-school care from 8:45 AM to 3:30 PM with varied weekly activities.
How do you celebrate cultural diversity?
We host multicultural festivals, global awareness projects, and language celebrations, currently representing over 40 different languages.
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