CREATING an atmosphere conducive to learning is the key to success at Eldene School. The pupils are taught in a relaxing atmosphere in which they can both enjoy learning, while preparing for the next stages of their education.

This approach to learning is the key to the school’s success according to joint headteachers, Susan Joslin and Heather Kellett.

“Visitors nearly always comment on the calmness and what their recent Ofsted inspection called the ‘purposeful buzz’ which is evident all around the school,” said Susan.

“Another notable feature is the co-operation and respect shown by children and by all staff.” Children of all abilities are challenged to achieve their very best, and the school concentrates on making every child a Learning Star.

‘STARS’ is the name of the approach to working and learning that Eldene weave into everything the children do. Each letter of STARS stands for a different ‘learning muscle’.

S is for ‘Stick at It!’, encouraging children to develop perseverance and not give up at the first difficulty. T is for ‘Together We Learn’, which is the school motto while A is for ‘Ask Questions’, which promote curiosity. R is for ‘Recognising Links and Patterns’, which encourages children to see connections between different aspects of their learning and the second S is for ‘Stop, Don’t Rush!’, which makes children think carefully about all aspects of their work.

Heather said: “Academic achievement is important at Eldene, but is not the only priority. As the school vision says, they are working together to develop a lifelong love of learning, and sow the seeds of success.”

At the end of last year Eldene was rated ‘good’ in its Osted inspection and was full of praise for many aspects of the school. The teaching was praised with some aspects being rated as outstanding while pointing out that all the children are keen to come to school and learn.

As well as all the work in the classroom, every pupil has the opportunity to take part in a wide variety of extra-curricular activities, ranging from swimming to football, as well as the ever-popular breakfast club.

Name: Eldene Primary School

Address: Colingsmead, Eldene, Swindon, SN3 3TQ

Website: www.eldeneprimaryschool.org.uk

Phone Number: 01793 525908

Email: admin@eldene.swindon.sch.uk

Headteachers: Susan Joslin and Heather Kellett

Chair of Governors: Dr Mike Bosher