ST JOHN THE BAPTIST CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL in East Sussex, Brighton

Education Centre Information: St John the Baptist Catholic Primary School:

Establishment Type:Voluntary Aided School
Phase of Education: Primary
Status: Open
Local Authority: Brighton and Hove
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: Roman Catholic
Diocese: Diocese of Arundel and Brighton
Nursery Provider: No Nursery Classes
Total Pupils: 205
Number of boys: 104
Number of girls: 101
Age Range: 4-11
Gender: Mixed
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Background:

Founded at the end of the 19th century, the school moved 10 years ago and now occupies a 'bright, modern building' in the east of Brighton where its raised position gives 'a perfect view of the town's famous Palace Pier'. Its catchment area is 'diverse' and it does experience 'many local issues related to urban deprivation'. Free school meals vary between 35% and 48%. The school is now part of the East Brighton Education Action Zone. The school's underlying philosophy is based on the principle of respect for others, while all staff are 'committed to raising the self-esteem and academic standard of all pupils'. The children have access to a 'wide range' of extra-curricular activities including football, hockey, computer club, netball, board games and athletics. The school provides a host of stimulating events such as residential stays for Year 4, 5 and 6 pupils where they can undertake activities like abseiling, canoeing, archery, climbing, orienteering and problem solving. The school football team has won the regional Predator competition and represented Brighton against teams including Queens Park Rangers and Watford, while a recent sports week at the school included coaching events and visits from Olympic medallist Mark Rowlands and Chris Eubank. The national schemes for literacy and numeracy are 'fully implemented' but the school also 'looks for curriculum innovations'. For example, Year 6 pupils are currently undertaking a local environmental study which involves using a digital video camera, scanning drawings and setting up computer databases, while 29 AMEX employees come to the school every week to hear children read as part of a literacy mentorship scheme. As a Christian school it is 'committed to fostering strong community links' and has a policy for regular meetings with all parents and a 'thriving' parents' association. It runs a variety of fund-raising activities to support local and national charities.