VALE FIRST AND MIDDLE SCHOOL, WORTHING in West Sussex, Worthing

Education Centre Information: Vale First and Middle School, Worthing:

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: 637
Number of boys: 345
Number of girls: 292
Age Range: 4-12
Gender: Mixed
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Background:

Established in 1951, the school is set in a 'very picturesque' part of West Sussex, on the northern outskirts of Worthing. The school attracts pupils from a 'quite extensive' catchment area comprised of private housing. The original buildings have been enhanced by developments through the years including eight new classrooms and a science/art/home economics area in an extra building. Additional alterations have been made to the kitchens to add a group area, a storeroom and a special needs room. The parents resourced the heated swimming pool and the library enhancement. The school 'prides itself on the all-round balance of its curriculum' and develops physical education, dance, drama, music, French, cooking, art and craft and other foundation subjects. Guests are invited to speak at the school for 'first hand experience', while staff are released to help organise county courses, help in other schools and undertake Saturday activities such as the able pupils programme. The school's 'family cluster' recently organised a Festival of Family Arts involving dance, music and drama, and this was a great success. 'Many' extra-curricular activities are available to the children including French, information and communications technology club, art, music, karate, dance and fitness, cross-country, rugby, football, netball, swimming and others. The school has 'many links' with the local community and is involved with many fundraising activities. Popular charities have included Comic Relief, Jeans for Genes Day and World Vision. The school achieved Beacon school status in 1999.