Caring school nurtures pupils

Highfields Primary School caters for children aged from four to 11, and is now taking steps to secure nursery provision in the future.

Both staff and pupils have had a busy start to the new school year, and are set to be just as occupied after next week's half-term holiday.

So far this year the school has had a new computer server, with 16 wireless laptops, which has seen a move from the traditional computer suite.

Instead laptops can now be taken into the classroom as and when required.

The school has also introduced a new reading and writing programme, and this week children have been enjoying a topic week learning all about Europe.

Their parents will be able to see all the work they have done on Europe at a special evening after the holiday.

Children also celebrated their harvest festival last week, and in a break from the norm instead of making a donation, the children have been set a business challenge.

Each class has been given £10 and for the next month is to run a business, with all profits going to a charity to be chosen by the pupils.

Headteacher Helen Poole said after the holiday the children would be gearing up for Christmas, with various productions to be staged, and a healthy eating day was also planned.

"Highfields Primary School has a very caring, warm atmosphere in which we nurture children and help them to meet their potential," said Miss Poole.

"We are also encouraging children to learn about their feelings, and how to interact emotionally and socially through SEAL, social and emotional aspects of learning."

Miss Poole added the school was due an Ofsted inspection within the next year, having not had one since May 2002.

Outside of school, the Highfields PTFA have already raised £1,000 this year from a September barbecue.