BALCOMBE COFE CONTROLLED PRIMARY SCHOOL in West Sussex, Haywards Heath

Education Centre Information: Balcombe CofE Controlled Primary School:

Establishment Type:Voluntary Controlled School
Phase of Education: Primary
Status: Open
Local Authority: West Sussex
Boarders: No Boarders
Sixth Form: Does not have a sixth form
Urban/Rural Description: Town and Fringe - less sparse
Special Classes: No Special Classes
Religious Character: Church of England
Diocese: Diocese of Chichester
Nursery Provider: No Nursery Classes
Total Pupils: 144
Number of boys: 76
Number of girls: 68
Age Range: 4-11
Gender: Mixed
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Background:

Balcombe CofE School is a rural village school. In 1948 it became a controlled school and wholly maintained by the LEA. Although built in 1850, the school has been 'extensively modernised and extended', and a new hall was completed in December 1999. The grounds consist of a play area, activity apparatus, a wildlife area and 'spacious' games field. The school is located in an area of 'outstanding natural beauty' and overlooks forests and farmland. It is 'renowned for its energetic, high quality musical productions' as well as its 'strong sporting traditions' and last year it won local athletics, cross country and basketball activities. Community links are strong. Visits from people who work locally such as a policeman, farmer, forester, doctor and artist, and visits to their place of work, greatly enhances the curriculum. The school regularly supports local and national charities. Pupils have, for example, been encouraged to 'demonstrate their entrepreneurial skills' by planning and organising their own stalls in order to raise money for local and national charities.