school background

School Background

Sherston Church of England Primary School was established in 1845, and originally stood in the High Street. .

In February 2005 the school moved to a purpose-built six-classroom building nearby. Here the school maintains its tradition of a friendly caring atmosphere where a balanced education of the highest quality is provided by committed teachers and ancillary staff. We are fortunate to receive a great deal of support from parents, both by voluntary help in the classroom and in the activities of the Friends of Sherston School.

The school has achieved excellent results in recent years, which have been reflected in both national and local league tables.

Sherston School ranked highly in The Sunday Times top 250 schools in 2000. In 2002 it was placed 14th in a national table comparing schools of a similar size.

In 2001 the school achieved the DfES School Achievement Award.

In 2008 the school was granted International School Status by the British Council. This award shared by less than 950 schools nationally reflected the curriculum links we have established with schools around the world.

The most recent Ofsted and SIAS (Church of England Inspection) reports noted that the level of achievement at the end of Key Stage 2 was above the national average in all core curriculum subjects and noted the good and commendable features in other subjects.

Other comments were:

"Pupils’ positive attitude and their friendly relationships with each other and with adults make it obvious that they enjoy school."

"Parents are positive about the care shown to their children."

"The Headteacher, governors and staff are strongly committed to school improvement."

"Pupils are confident in sharing their views as they know that what they say will be valued by their peers and adults as well."

"Cultural development is excellent."

Links to the full and summary reports are provided on the OFSTED & School Results page

The Rattlebone Verse

"Fight well Rattlebone

Thou shalt have Sherstone:

What shall I with Sherston doe

Without I have all belongs thereto?

Thou shalt have Wyck and Willesly

Easton Towne and Pinkeney"

Traditional verse of Sherston women and children, quoted by John Aubrey, circa 1660. Local tradition states that the formidable Rattlebone was severely wounded in his fight against the Danes, but held himself together by pressing a tile to his abdomen, and fought on to victory.