ST LAURENCE'S CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL in Merseyside, Liverpool

Education Centre Information: St Laurence's Catholic Primary School:

Establishment Type:Voluntary Aided School
Phase of Education: Primary
Status: Open
Local Authority: Knowsley
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: Archdiocese of Liverpool
Nursery Provider: Has Nursery Classes
Total Pupils: 399
Number of boys: 203
Number of girls: 196
Age Range: 3-11
Gender: Mixed
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Background:

Built in 1954 to serve the large number of Roman Catholic families moving from the Liverpool area, the two storey, brick building comprises twelve classrooms. The area suffers a high rate of unemployment, and over 70% of the pupils are entitled to school meals free of charge, which is more than three times the national rate. A quarter also have special educational needs (SEN). The school is proud that its pupils nevertheless perform 'magnificently' in all academic subjects, with test results 'constantly' within the top 25% of similar schools. The curriculum is extended with homework for all pupils. Success has also been found in sports, especially in local soccer tournaments. The school holds 20 to 30 extra-curricular clubs, before and after school and at lunchtime, including the Mayors Award Scheme which involves French, Italian, cookery, art, chess, knitting, first aid and camping. Children can also learn to play a variety of instruments or sing in the choir. A family night runs every Tuesday and incorporates games such as snooker and table tennis. The school also offers courses for parents in computers, soft furnishings, maths, English, psychology and flower arranging, all of which lead to formal qualifications. 'The gospel values of love, respect and justice are at the heart of all we do.' It is over-subscribed, receiving 60 applications for 50 places.