THE success of Noremarsh Junior School, in Royal Wootton Bassett, is down to the importance which is placed on teamwork.

Children benefit not only from the hard work of all the staff, but also from a great deal of input from parents.

The school has recognised that by building up a strong relationship with the pupils’ parents, the youngsters will get a far more rounded education.

The parents run a number of the sports teams and also take part in some of the lessons, most noticeably maths every week.

“The key for the school is that our children and parents all work together,” said headteacher Andy Simpson.

“The parents run our football and netball teams, for example, and organise a fun run for the children.

“Every Friday parents can come in on Fridays when we play maths games. It’s great for the children and helps them to enjoy their education.

“They spend a lot of time outside of school so it helps them to get parents involved in their education.”

The overall aim of the school is to provide a rounded experience for all the children so they are ready to move onto the next stage of the school system.

This can be seen in the school motto, which reads: ‘Laying foundations for lifelong learners.’ Andy said: “All of our children have a lot of independence when learning and are required to take responsibility.

“We make sure all the staff give them regular feedback on their work so they know their strengths and where they need to improve.

“In giving them this level of responsibility the children all enjoy coming into school and there is a very positive atmosphere around the school.”

It may not be the most traditional approach to teaching but it clearly works, with the school being rated good in its last Ofsted inspection.

Noremarsh also places a great deal of importance on sports, offering youngsters a huge variety of options.

The parents run football and netball teams and both have experienced success while the children also have the chance to play cricket and even touch rugby if they wish.

Noremarsh Junior School

Address: Clarendon Drive, Royal Wootton Bassett SN4 8BT

Telephone: 01793 852250

Website: www.noremarsh.wilts.sch.uk

Headteacher: Andy Simpson

Chair of Governors: Ellen Woollaston-Cooper

Number of Pupils: 160

Uniform: Red jumper or cardigan