Business Details
St Thomas Moorside CE Primary School
St Thomas Moorside C Of E V A Primary School. (V.A.) Primary School is a one-form entry institution nestled in Sholver, Oldham, and part of a hard federation with East Crompton St James Primary School. Our shared governance ensures seamless resource allocation while maintaining individual school identities. We prioritise a broad, balanced curriculum designed to be engaging, imaginative, and academically rigorous, fostering independence in every child. Rooted in a Christian ethos of care, co-operation, and friendship, our staff cultivate strong relationships with pupils, families, and the wider church community. We are committed to delivering exceptional teaching and pastoral support, enabling every child to achieve their highest academic and spiritual potential.Our values of friendship, trust, and compassion guide our approach to education, creating a nurturing environment where pupils thrive. Collaboration with parents is central to our mission, ensuring a purposeful and joyful learning journey. Facilities such as our Forest School enhance experiential learning, while our SENCO and Inclusion Lead provide tailored support for diverse needs. Recognised for excellence in holistic education, we are proud to serve as a cornerstone of the local Christian community.
Services
Early Years Foundation Stage
English
Maths
Science
Computing
Geography
History
Music
PSHE
Phonics
Highlights and features
- We offer a broad and balanced curriculum with a focus on creativity and independence.
- Our Christian ethos fosters care, co-operation, and strong community relationships.
- Forest School provision enhances experiential learning and outdoor skills.
- We provide specialist SEN support tailored to individual pupil needs.
- Our trauma-informed approach prioritises emotional and mental wellbeing.
Services
Early Years Foundation Stage
Our EYFS provision nurtures foundational academic, social, and emotional skills through play-based learning. Dedicated teachers create stimulating environments where children explore, question, and collaborate. Outdoor spaces like our Forest School enhance sensory experiences while fostering curiosity and confidence.
Forest School
Forest School sessions develop resilience, creativity, and environmental awareness through hands-on activities. Children lead their learning in natural settings, building fires, using tools safely, and connecting with nature. Qualified leaders observe and guide progress in physical, intellectual, and spiritual domains.
Special Educational Needs
Tailored interventions ensure pupils with SEN access a full curriculum through individualised plans. Our SENCO collaborates with teachers and parents to address diverse needs, including speech therapy, sensory resources, and emotional wellbeing strategies. Regular reviews track progress and adjust support.
Religious Education
RE lessons explore Christian values and other world faiths, promoting respect and empathy. Our Christian ethos shapes daily worship, collective prayer, and community service projects. Pupils engage with scripture, festivals, and ethical discussions to deepen spiritual understanding.
Physical Education
PE teaches teamwork, discipline, and healthy habits through games, dance, and gymnastics. Facilities include sports fields and partnerships with local clubs for extra-curricular activities. Competitions and inter-house events build confidence and physical literacy across all age groups.
People
Mr A J Laskey
Executive Headteacher
Mr Laskey, an experienced educator with a Bachelor of Education and NPQH, leads the school's federation, focusing on holistic learning and Christian values. He champions academic excellence alongside spiritual growth.
Mrs D Warren
Deputy Headteacher
Mrs Warren oversees daily operations at St Thomas Moorside, ensuring high teaching standards and pupil wellbeing. Her leadership supports the school's vision of nurturing independent, compassionate learners within a Christian community.
Mrs Larissa Fox
SENCO
Mrs Fox coordinates tailored support for pupils with special educational needs, collaborating with teachers and families to create inclusive learning environments that maximise each child's potential.
Miss C Wilde
Forest School Leader
Miss Wilde delivers transformative outdoor learning experiences, fostering resilience and creativity through Forest School sessions. She designs nature-based activities that align with curriculum goals and holistic development.
Questions
What curriculum does St Thomas Moorside follow?
We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage and National Curriculum, enriched with creative, faith-based learning and Forest School experiences.
How does the school support children with SEN?
Our SENCO provides individualised support plans, specialist resources, and regular progress reviews to ensure all children achieve their potential.
Are there extracurricular activities available?
Yes! We offer Forest School, sports clubs, residential trips, and partnerships with local organisations like Bikeability for additional learning opportunities.
What makes the school's ethos unique?
Rooted in Christian values, our ethos prioritises compassion, trust, and community, integrating social-emotional wellbeing with academic and spiritual growth.
How are parents involved in school life?
We encourage parental engagement through regular communication, FOST (Friends of St Thomas), curriculum workshops, and shared worship activities.
