WHYTELEAFE PRIMARY SCHOOL in Surrey, Whyteleafe

Education Centre Information: Whyteleafe Primary School:

Establishment Type:Foundation School
Phase of Education: Primary
Status: Open
Local Authority: Surrey
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: None
Nursery Provider: No Nursery Classes
Total Pupils: 419
Number of boys: 211
Number of girls: 208
Age Range: 4-11
Gender: Mixed
View inspection reports

Background:

Situated in the suburban area of Whyteleafe in Surrey, the school is housed in an ex-girl's grammar school building, part of which dates from 1909. Its 'extensive' grounds and facilities include an indoor swimming pool, a two acre sports field, outdoor trim-trail, wildlife area with pond, 'well-equipped' computer suite large enough to take a whole class of children, libraries, a music room, craft room, three halls and 'much more'. Pupils are drawn from both Whyteleafe and outside the catchment area and come from a 'range of home backgrounds'. Many pupils have played chess for England and the teaching of swimming 'remains outstanding'. In 1999, the school won every year group in its division in the English Primary Schools' Swimming Association Dolphin Trophy Award. In recent years, Whyteleafe has produced Surrey cross-country champions, chess champions, district footballers, county swimming 'stars' and many pupils gain success at musical instrumental examinations. The school's community links are 'strong'. It provides for a Croydon 'soup kitchen' at harvest festival as well as inviting senior citizens and pupils' grandparents to a tea party at Christmas. Although Whyteleafe is not a Church school, pupils participate in activities at the local church and there is a before-and-after school play group. The community is encouraged to use the school's facilites and the swimming pool is let to local organisations four days a week. The children also raise funds for charity. The school is oversubscribed, receiving 85 applications for 60 places in reception.