Business Details
9 Years
experience
Nurturing Aspiration Through Happy, Creative Learning
Ashbourne Primary School is a nurturing institution where children, staff, and governors take pride in our innovative learning environment. Established in September 2017 through the rebranding of Parkside Junior School, we cater to pupils aged 3 - 11, fostering aspiration through happy, creative education. Our ethos combines high academic standards with a commitment to courtesy and positive behaviour, ensuring a well-rounded foundation for young learners. We implement a structured curriculum covering core subjects like English, Mathematics, and Science, alongside foundation topics including Geography, History, and Modern Foreign Languages. Our extracurricular initiatives, such as Forest Schools and sports programs, reflect our dedication to holistic development and physical wellbeing.We maintain transparency in policies regarding safeguarding, attendance, and special educational needs, aligning with statutory requirements and best practices. Our leadership team, including the headteacher and co-headteacher/Senco, ensures operational excellence while engaging actively with parents and the local community. Regular communication through newsletters, parent meetings, and digital platforms keeps stakeholders informed of school updates and achievements. We continuously strive to enhance our provision through feedback mechanisms like Parent View and collaborative partnerships with support services. Our environment emphasizes safety, inclusivity, and respect, preparing pupils for future educational challenges with confidence and resilience.
Services
Early Years
English
Maths
Science
Geography
History
Modern Foreign Languages
Details
- Year established: 2017
Highlights and features
- We provide a structured curriculum covering core and foundation subjects for ages 311.
- Our Forest Schools and sports programs promote holistic physical and outdoor development.
- We maintain high standards of behaviour and academic excellence in a supportive environment.
- Our leadership team prioritises transparency through regular parent communication and updates.
- Special educational needs are supported with tailored strategies and inclusive practices.
What people say
Nurturing environment
Experienced teachers
Creative learning
Inclusive practices
Positive behaviour
Services
Early Years
Our Early Years programme nurtures foundational skills through play-based activities tailored to children aged 35. We focus on communication, physical development, and social interaction, aligning with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework. This stage prepares pupils for key stage 1 learning through structured yet engaging experiences.
English
English instruction develops reading, writing, and spoken language proficiency. Using phonics schemes like Read Write Inc and a diverse selection of reading materials, we foster comprehension and expression. Pupils engage in creative writing, grammar study, and literary analysis appropriate to their key stage.
Maths
Mathematics teaching covers number operations, geometry, and problem-solving techniques. We employ mastery approaches to ensure deep conceptual understanding, supported by practical resources and digital tools. Lessons align with national curriculum requirements, progressing from basic arithmetic to advanced topics.
Science
Science lessons explore biology, chemistry, and physics through experiments and inquiry-based learning. Pupils develop observation, hypothesis-testing, and analytical skills. Topics range from living organisms to physical processes, fostering curiosity about the natural world.
Modern Foreign Languages
Spanish instruction introduces vocabulary, grammar, and cultural awareness. Lessons incorporate speaking, listening, reading, and writing activities, building foundational skills for secondary education. Cultural experiences enrich pupils' understanding of global contexts.
People
Mrs Paula Chisholm
Headteacher
Mrs Chisholm has led Ashbourne Primary School since 2017, guiding educational strategy and school improvement. With extensive teaching experience, she champions innovation in curriculum delivery and staff development.
Miss Heather Davis
Co-Headteacher/SENCO
Miss Davis oversees special educational needs provision and shares leadership responsibilities. She ensures inclusive practices support pupils with varied learning requirements, working closely with parents and external specialists.
Miss Peach
School Administrator
Miss Peach manages administrative operations, ensuring smooth communication between the school and families. Her role includes coordinating meetings, maintaining records, and supporting daily school functions.
Questions
What age groups does Ashbourne Primary School cater to?
We accept pupils from ages 3–11, covering Early Years Foundation Stage through Key Stage 2.
How does the school support children with special educational needs?
Our SENCO team provides tailored strategies and collaborates with external specialists to meet individual requirements.
What extracurricular activities are available?
Forest Schools sessions, sports programs, and creative clubs complement the standard curriculum.
How can parents stay informed about school updates?
Regular newsletters, parent meetings, and the online Parent View system provide key information.
How does the school approach safeguarding?
Robust policies aligned with statutory guidelines ensure pupil safety and wellbeing at all times.
