We have 347 children at Tidemill in 13 classes - a Nursery, two Reception classes, two Year 1 and two Year 2 classes, three Year 3+4 classes and three Year 5+6 classes. We split the Year 3/4 and Year 5/6 classes in the morning for literacy and numeracy to reduce class sizes and ensure we can challenge our more able children and support any children who are finding particular topics more challenging.

Tidemill has been at the forefront of the remodelling agenda – click here to see press coverage:
http://www.tda.gov.uk/remodelling/...tidemill.aspx
http://www.tda.gov.uk/case_studies/remodelling/tidemill_ppa.aspx and
http://www.teachernet.gov.uk/teachers/issue29/.

We enjoy staff:pupil ratios which are more reminiscent of a private school than a state primary, with HLTAs in most classes (some of whom are qualified teachers), specialist music, PE and art teachers to cover class teacher’s PPA afternoons and additional staff providing interventions and group support. We also have a Learning Mentor and a number of SEN support workers who work in class with specific children, as well as a Family Liaison Officer who works with parents to provide support and signposting to other services.

Please click on a year group above to view the staff group.

Foundation Stage
Our Nursery and Reception are joined to make our Foundation Stage. We do this in order to allow a seamless transition from one area to another. The teachers work very closely together on planning to ensure our children get a balanced and varied curriculum. Much emphasis is placed on learning through movement and by emersion in a variety of activities.

Year 1+2
The more formal part of schooling begins in Year 1+2 where our pupils engage in the National Numeracy and Literacy lessons, beginning the rudiments of reading, writing and handwriting skills. Great emphasis is still placed on non-core curriculum areas such as art, PE, and music.
At the end of Year 2 the pupils engage in National Tests which give a snapshot of where that pupil, and the school, is at that stage.

Year 3+4
Year 3+4 continue the more formal work started in Year 1+2. Emphasis is an developing reading, writing and numeracy skills. Intervention strategies are available to cater for those with learning difficulties. A very balanced curriculum is available including art , music, swimming, and P.E.

Year 5+6
As our pupils come to the top of our school, emphasis is placed on becoming independent learners. Pupils are involved in daily maths and literacy lessons. Pupils are set according to ability in order for us to cater to their needs. A very full curriculum is in place including science, art, Games, and Emotional Literacy. During Year 6 the pupils undergo statutory SAT's Tests. Pupils in Year 5-6 also participate in an outdoor adventure week in Devon.

Mark Elms - Head Teacher

Lorraine Stewart- Deputy Head

Rachel Bowern - Assistant Head

Claire Bird - Assistant Head

Michelle Rosemond - Lead Teacher for Speech, Language & Communication Classes

Rachel Taylor -Business Manager