SOUTHOVER COFE PRIMARY SCHOOL in East Sussex, Lewes

Education Centre Information: Southover CofE Primary School:

Establishment Type:Voluntary Controlled School
Phase of Education: Primary
Status: Open
Local Authority: East Sussex
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: Church of England
Diocese: Diocese of Chichester
Nursery Provider: No Nursery Classes
Total Pupils: 323
Number of boys: 157
Number of girls: 166
Age Range: 4-11
Gender: Mixed
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Background:

Originally opened in 1872, Southover School moved in October 1993 to nearby buildings previously used by the girls' grammar school. As a result it gained more and bigger classrooms complete with well equipped activity areas, a large hall, two libraries and a gymnasium. The school is currently developing a computer suite in a newly-refurbished area in the building. Outdoors, there are 'large play spaces with two well-equipped playgrounds and extensive fields' which include an all-weather cricket strip. This has paid dividends and Southover has represented the county in cricket finals at Hove for the last four seasons and is currently 'the most successful school in East Sussex'. All Southover pupils have use of the swimming pool in the grounds. The 'many extra-curricular activities of a varied nature' include 'regular opportunities' to practise sports such as cricket, netball, basketball and soccer, learn skills like cycling proficiency and engage in cultural activities such as drama and music, as well as the opportunity to learn Latin and cookery. The school has its own orchestra and choir. This year the football and netball teams have won regional tournaments and the school took first place in the inter-schools cross-country. It is proud of its close links with the community and 'has its own sense of community as well'. The school's links with Southover Church 'increases the spirit as well as underpinning its ethos and values'. The school is over subscribed with on average 61 applications for 44 places in the reception class.