AB Kettleby Primary School: A Small, Supportive Community in Rural Leicestershire

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Academic Philosophy and Strengths

The philosophy at Ab Kettleby Primary School is undoubtedly rooted in providing a secure, supportive, and stimulating environment for its young learners. The small size of the school is its greatest asset, allowing for highly personalised attention.

• Child-Centred Learning: The curriculum is designed to be engaging and accessible, fostering a love of learning from the early years (Reception) through to Year 6.
• Broad and Balanced Curriculum: The school delivers the National Curriculum for primary-aged children, ensuring a solid foundation in core subjects like English and Maths, as well as a full range of other subjects.
• Utilising the Local Environment: The rural setting provides ample opportunities for outdoor learning and exploring nature as part of the curriculum.

Campus Life and Community Culture

Life at Ab Kettleby Primary is characterised by its close-knit, family feel. With only 63 children, the school fosters a strong sense of belonging and community. Older and younger children often mix, creating a supportive environment where pupils look out for one another.

The school serves the villages of Ab Kettleby and the surrounding area, making it a true community hub. Parents and local residents are likely to be actively involved in school events, strengthening the bond between the school and the village.

Student Support Systems

In a school of this size, support is highly personalised and immediate. The low pupil numbers mean that staff know every child intimately, allowing them to quickly identify and respond to any academic or pastoral needs.

• Pastoral Care: The Head Teacher and staff provide consistent, nurturing support. The small scale prevents children from feeling lost or overlooked.
• SEND Support: The school supports children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) with tailored interventions and close communication with parents.
• Transition Support: The school will have strong links with local pre-schools and secondary schools to ensure smooth transitions for pupils at both the start and end of their primary journey.

Admissions Process

Admissions for Ab Kettleby Primary School are handled through the Leicestershire County Council coordinated admissions scheme for primary schools.

1. Application: Parents must apply through the Leicestershire County Council website or application process during the national primary school application window.
2. Allocation Criteria: Places are allocated based on the council's criteria, which typically include catchment area (with priority for the Ab Kettleby area), sibling links, and distance from the school.
3. Outcome: Offers are made on National Offer Day in April.

Given the school's small size and rural location, it is likely that most pupils come from the immediate vicinity.

Facilities They Provide in Detail

The school operates from a facility designed for its small, rural intake. Key features likely include:

• Mixed-Age Classrooms: Due to the small number of pupils, classes may be organised into mixed-age groups (e.g., Year 1/2, Year 3/4, etc.).
• Outdoor Learning Areas: The rural setting provides fantastic opportunities for outdoor education, likely including a playground and access to fields or natural spaces.
• Intimate Learning Environment: A small, safe, and well-resourced building that feels like a home away from home.

Their Achievements

The school's primary achievements are linked to its role as a successful community school.

• Successful Academy Conversion: The school converted to academy status in 2014, joining the Mowbray Education Trust.
• Strong Community Links: The school acts as a vital hub for the village community, fostering strong relationships with families and local residents.
• Nurturing Environment: Providing a safe, supportive, and personalised education is a significant achievement in itself.

A Final Summary of the Overall Experience

Ab Kettleby Primary School offers a quintessential village school experience. Its small size is its greatest strength, ensuring that each child receives individual attention within a caring and familiar environment. For families living in or near Ab Kettleby seeking a primary school with a strong community spirit and a nurturing approach to early education, it is an ideal and highly valued local choice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What age range does Ab Kettleby Primary School cover?

The school is a primary school, covering children from age 4 (Reception) to age 11 (Year 6).

How many children are there in the school?

The school is small, with a capacity of 77 and a current roll of 63 children.

Who is the Head Teacher?

The Head Teacher is Mrs. Andrea Brown.

What academy trust is the school part of?

It is part of the Mowbray Education Trust.

Is there a nursery class at the school?

No, the data specifies "No Nursery Classes." It educates children from Reception age onwards.

How do I apply for a place for my child?

Applications for Reception places are made through Leicestershire County Council. Due to the school's small size, places are likely limited to children living in the catchment area.

What is the percentage of pupils eligible for Free School Meals?

The data shows that 6.3% of pupils are eligible for Free School Meals, which is below the national average and reflects the rural nature of the area.

What is the school's setting like?

The school is located in a "Rural hamlet," offering a quiet, countryside setting that is ideal for a small, community-focused primary school.