ST CHAD'S ROMAN CATHOLIC VOLUNTARY AIDED PRIMARY SCHOOL in Durham, Bishop Auckland

Education Centre Information: St Chad's Roman Catholic Voluntary Aided Primary School:

Establishment Type:Voluntary Aided School
Phase of Education: Primary
Status: Open
Local Authority: Durham
Boarders: No Boarders
Sixth Form: Does not have a sixth form
Urban/Rural Description: Village - less sparse
Special Classes: No Special Classes
Religious Character: Roman Catholic
Diocese: Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle
Nursery Provider: No Nursery Classes
Total Pupils: 87
Number of boys: 35
Number of girls: 52
Age Range: 4-11
Gender: Mixed
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Background:

The school is situated in the rural village of Witton Park in County Durham and is surrounded by 'beautiful' views and 'lots' of green fields. The pupils come from a wide geographical area and many parents send their children to St Chad's in preference to schools nearer their home. The school buildings are 'quite old' with 1950s extensions, but were recently refurbished. Facilities include classrooms, a centrally based library, a hall for worship, physical education, drama and dining, and the 'keep', a multifunctional resource and study area for teachers and children. Extra-curricular activities include football, swimming, country dancing, table tennis, recorder and choir. Whole school assemblies are 'excellent' and allow children to demonstrate their dramatic and musical skills. The school always takes part in inter-school sporting tournaments, although the emphasis is on participation rather than first prizes. The head teacher, governors and staff 'work hard' to maintain links with the parish, although the local Catholic church is some distance away. There are 'excellent' links with the local and wider community and with Butterwick Hospice and St Cuthbert's Care. Year 6 children annually raise funds for Children In Need and other national and international charities. Parent support is 'very good'.