THOMAS A BECKET MIDDLE SCHOOL in West Sussex, Worthing

Education Centre Information: Thomas A Becket Middle School:

Establishment Type:Community School
Phase of Education: Middle Deemed Primary
Status: Open
Local Authority: West Sussex
Boarders: No Boarders
Sixth Form: Does not have a sixth form
Urban/Rural Description: Urban > 10k - less sparse
Special Classes: No Special Classes
Religious Character: Does not apply
Nursery Provider: No Nursery Classes
Total Pupils: 761
Number of boys: 384
Number of girls: 377
Age Range: 8-12
Gender: Mixed
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Background:

One of the largest middle schools in the UK and 'recognised as one of the best schools of its type'. Became a Beacon School in 1998, awarded a certificate by the DfEE for providing a high standard of education and has Investors in People status. It has also received training grants of #120,000 to help develop activities in neighbouring schools. Situated in the north of Worthing at the foot of the Sussex Downs about a mile from the sea, the school serves an area centred on the village of Tarring, which features many historic buildings. Lies within a 'favoured catchment area with a strong community identity', reflected in its 'thriving' friends of the school association which raises funds for things such as ICT facilities and environmental projects. Founded with the amalgamation of two smaller schools in 1985, the school has excellent facilities and spacious accommodation including 26 class bases, science lab, two technology/art rooms, library, gymnasium, home economics room, three IT suites and a music/drama room. Specialist teaching is a 'recognised strong feature of the school's provision of the curriculum' and sports, music and drama are also 'strengths' with an orchestra, choir, drama groups and successes in cross-country, swimming, athletics, football and netball. Two special educational needs (SEN) rooms, two teachers specifically employed to work with small groups and learning support assistants cater for those pupils with SEN. A variety of extra-curricular clubs provides for particular interests and talents such as orchestra, choirs, drama, dance, basketball, ICT, table tennis, football, netball, athletics and board games, while facilities are provided for children to do homework at school. The over-subscribed school supports charity work 'strongly' and Children in Kenya, National Children's Homes, the British Heart Foundation and animal charities benefited from fundraising activities in 1999/2000.