PENCOMBE COFE PRIMARY SCHOOL in Herefordshire, Bromyard

Education Centre Information: Pencombe CofE Primary School:

Establishment Type:Voluntary Aided School
Phase of Education: Primary
Status: Open
Local Authority: Herefordshire
Boarders: No Boarders
Sixth Form: Does not have a sixth form
Urban/Rural Description: Village - less sparse
Special Classes: No Special Classes
Religious Character: Church of England
Diocese: Diocese of Hereford
Nursery Provider: No Nursery Classes
Total Pupils: 60
Number of boys: 31
Number of girls: 29
Age Range: 4-11
Gender: Mixed
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Background:

Founded in 1862, Pencombe is still housed in its original Victorian buildings, which comprise a two-classroomed school and a converted school house. The buildings were modernised in 1992 to provide activity areas, a library, a staffroom and a third teaching area and, in 1996, the school acquired its first inside toilet. The grounds include a large playing field and a playground. The new parish hall occupies the same site bordered by grazing pastures, woodland and the village church. The school is 'embedded' in the community and provides a social link and a 'focus for worship' for local families and past pupils. It prides itself on the 'creative techniques' employed at the school and allows children to experience things first hand when possible, in addition to making use of visiting experts. The school belongs to a cluster of four schools and this allows it to participate in activities which would otherwise not be possible, for example Mardi Gras, African week and 'more-able' workshops. The 'extensive' programme of extra-curricular activities includes cross country, tap dancing, batik, first aid, sewing, decoupage, and computers. Three or four clubs are usually offered at any time, made possible by the help of members of the local community. Though the school is small it still manages to produce football and netball teams which have seen some success in local competitions. Pencombe pupils are also usually 'strong swimmers'. Children are encouraged to think of others have raised money for charities including UNICEF, Macmillan Nurses and Comic Relief. The school is determined 'to provide a life lasting and life enhancing education'.