SCHOOL OF THE WEEK: Blackwood Primary School

The school motto ‘It’s fun to learn’ is one that is embraced by pupils at Blackwood Primary School as Kath Skellon found out.

THE Headteacher at Blackwood Primary School is a firm believer in making learning fun.

“Our motto ‘It’s fun to learn’ is at the heart of the school’s ethos,” says Jane Mather-Thomas, who strives to make sure her pupils enjoy learning and promote high standards of independence.

From reading books in The Enchanted Wood reading corner to looking after the school’s chicken coup, taking on the role of digital leaders, producing a newsletter and a choice of activities outside the classroom, the children’s enthusiasm for learning is evident.

Now in her sixth year as headteacher, Mrs Mather-Thomas beams with pride as she talks about a busy term at the vibrant and active school and says she feels very lucky to be at its helm.

“Our Year six have been learning about World War Two, we’ve held Christmas concerts in the hall, the choir have performed at Llandaff Cathedral in Cardiff and the school took part in a lantern parade and carol concert in Caerphilly so it was a very busy time leading up to the Christmas holidays,” she added.

The school has plenty to shout about having gained a top eco award. The platinum award in the Eco-Schools Green Flag Award was given to the school for its sustainability work.

“We are delighted to receive the award, which is the highest in the scheme," Mrs Mather-Thomas said. "We have a really active Eco-Committee who meet weekly to look at different themes and report back to the whole school in assembly.”

The school has also had success on the sports field, which is evident by the number of trophies that decorate the welcoming reception.

From football to netball, rugby, tennis and cricket, pupils immerse themselves in sporting activities and have celebrated success on both the pitch and courts.

“We’ve had an exceptional year in sport,” Mrs Mather-Thomas added.

“The school has had success in cricket and football tournaments, having been named county cricket and football champions last season.

“We have a sports council whose members give verbal match reports in assembly, help with equipment and meet termly to discuss ideas.

“At the end of each academic year we hold a sports presentation and weekly PE awards.

“Health and wellbeing is vitally important across the school as is instilling healthy lifestyles for the future.

“We have a company who come in to the school called Superstar Sports who coach the children and also take the children on visits to places such as the Olympic Park in London and Wimbledon.”

Music also plays a strong part in life at Blackwood Primary. One of the instruments pupils are given the opportunity to learn is the harp.

A private harp tutor and Caerphilly Music Service both provide music lessons in a range of instruments across the school. The school was able to purchase the harps with help from Blackwood Town Council.

Mrs Mather-Thomas said: “Music features strongly here and adds an extra dimension to learning.

“The children have all had drumming lessons, with Year One performing for their parents before the Christmas concerts took place.

“We took part in so many musical events last term with more planned for the forthcoming term.”

Pupils at the school have a strong voice with key roles in the School Council, Eco Committee and as members of the Hot News team producing a pupil-led termly newspaper.

“They also act as Digital Leaders who take a steer on their own electronic learning, supporting teachers within the school,” the headteacher added.

The school boasts an impressive outdoor area providing pupils with a forest school area, an outdoor classroom, allotments and plays areas.

“We encourage them to be independent learners,” said Mrs Mather-Thomas.

“If they feel happy and settled coming into school they will become confident independent learners.

“The children are respectful, courteous, polite and happy members of the Blackwood Primary family.

“We are strongly supported by a pro-active governing body and active PTA which holds fundraising fete’s, coffee mornings and other events throughout the year.

“I feel very fortunate that I have an extremely committed, hard-working and enthusiastic team of staff who make sure that every day is the best learning experience for the children in our care.

“Myself and the staff have high expectations of each and every pupil and hope that they will achieve their full potential and become well-rounded citizens of the future.”

FACT FILE

Head: Mrs Jane Mather-Thomas

Address: Blackwood Primary School, Apollo Way, Blackwood.

Chair of Govenors: Mr Delwyn Davies

Pupils on roll:

Ages: 3-11

Motto: It’s fun to learn

School Inspection

The schools last Estyn inspection was carried out in 2009.

The inspector found it to be a good school with many outstanding features. The commitment of a forward-thinking headteacher, staff and governors ensures that a high standard of quality learning activities are experienced by all pupils. There is a caring and supportive ethos which is reflected in the confidence and adventure of the pupils in their work.

The behaviour of pupils is very good. They are respectful to their fellow pupils and adults, listening and responding appropriately to instructions and suggestions. Pupils have positive attitudes to learning and show high levels interest in their work. They are very well motivated and show great enthusiasm for their schoolwork and related activities.