COPTHORNE COFE JUNIOR SCHOOL in West Sussex, Copthorne

Education Centre Information: Copthorne CofE Junior 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: 221
Number of boys: 113
Number of girls: 108
Age Range: 7-11
Gender: Mixed
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Background:

Copthorne is a large village situated midway between Crawley and East Grinstead and close to Gatwick Airport. Although close to large urban areas, the village 'retains a separate identity'. Road and rail communications are 'good', with the M23 within two miles and the main London to Brighton railway line three miles away. The school opened in 1859 and was extensively modified in 1897. Three of the classrooms date from that period. Between 1967 and 1969, more adaptations and extensions were carried out. There are now five classes in the main building and three in hutted accommodation. The school has just undergone the first phase of a modernisation programme which it hopes will be continued in the 'not too distant future'. Facilities include a covered swimming pool on site and a small field, and many sporting activities take place on the infant school field 10 minutes walk away. The work of the school is based largely on the 'pupils' direct experience of their immediate environment' and on source materials, with a strong emphasis on an enquiry approach. The school also has a strong sporting tradition, and encourages pupils to raise money for charities.