ST GEORGE'S ROMAN CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL, YORK in North Yorkshire, York

Education Centre Information: St George's Roman Catholic Primary School, York:

Establishment Type:Voluntary Aided School
Phase of Education: Primary
Status: Open
Local Authority: York
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 Middlesborough
Nursery Provider: Has Nursery Classes
Total Pupils: 204
Number of boys: 101
Number of girls: 103
Age Range: 3-11
Gender: Mixed
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Background:

The current school opened in 1977, although it traces its origins back to 1686. It is located on a large city centre site in a 'vibrant and confident' parish community in south east York. The school was re-roofed in 2001 and it offers its own playing field, garden and wildlife area. A lack of space inside school 'causes frustration at times' although teaching areas have been enlarged since it was built. Accommodation consists of three units of twinned classrooms, each sharing a project area, with a central hall, nursery and reception area, administrative block and kitchen. The school has a reputation for 'high standards of drama and music' and all children are encouraged to take part in assemblies, concerts and religious celebrations. St George's recently became the first school in York to receive the national Artsmark award. The school also has 'strong sporting traditions' and offers all children the opportunity to learn football, netball, rounders and athletics, while children in Years 3 and 4 learn swimming lessons at the nearby Barbican Baths. A range of after school activities is provided and a residential visit is planned each year for children in Year 6, usually involving outdoor activities and team building. The school regularly supports charities which help needy children locally and in the Third World and there is a major fundraising effort during Lent. It builds and maintains 'good and positive' links with parents and the Friends of St George's raise money to assist the school. Evangelisation and the celebration of the sacraments of Christian initiation are 'central to the life of St George's parish'. Mass is celebrated regularly in school and some weeks there is a prayerful 'Celebration of the Word' to celebrate children's successes. The 'caring and effective' school recently received a School Achievement Award.