BRANKSOME HEATH JUNIOR SCHOOL in Dorset, Poole

Education Centre Information: Branksome Heath Junior School:

Establishment Type:Community School
Phase of Education: Middle Deemed Primary
Status: Open
Local Authority: Poole
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: 477
Number of boys: 239
Number of girls: 238
Age Range: 7-11
Gender: Mixed
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Background:

Located in Parkstone between the towns of Poole and Bournemouth, this large school moved to its present site in 1971, and in 1995 a new block housing specialist rooms for drama, music, and art was built. This followed the construction of facilities for technology, science and food technology a few years earlier. The grounds comprise a hard surface playground, sports field and woodland used for environmental studies. Also on site is a unit for pupils with hearing impairment, who receive individual tuition but are also integrated into mainstream classes. Almost all pupils live in the immediate area of the school. 'Creative' skills are nurtured and children are taught to learn from their mistakes, with a personal and social education scheme in place to raise self-esteem. All classes have access to two computers with internet connections, and a year library. A full-time co-ordinator assists pupils with special needs, of whom there are a high number. 'The celebration of achievement is very important', so as well as badges for good academic work, school colours can be gained for achievement in sport, performing arts and citizenship. The school is proud of the extra-curricular activities on offer and sports teams have found success at county level. Pupils can join music clubs or receive instrumental tuition. They value greatly trips to places of interest and visits from outsiders, including church figures who are sometimes invited to lead assemblies. Year 7 children participate in a week-long residential activity holiday. The school'strives to maintain the 'successful partnership' with parents to which the Parent-Teacher Association is a 'tribute', raising money and organizing social events.