'Children thrive in the beautiful setting': Rural north Shropshire school leads the way with unique flexi-schooling model
Surrounded by "beautiful" Shropshire countryside, this small village school is quietly leading the way with an innovative approach to education that blends the best of home and school learning.
Weston Lullingfields CE Primary School may be small in size, but is making a big impression with its well-established flexi-schooling model - a rare arrangement that allows some pupils to split their learning between home and the classroom.
While the majority of pupils attend full time, around 40 per cent of children are enrolled on the flexi-school programme, attending school for specific days or lessons while continuing their learning journey at home.
Headteacher Kate Scott, who has been at the north Shropshire school for four years and became the head nearly two years ago, said: "It's an extra uniqueness to us that some families like to use.
"We work with families to make sure we have that blended approach. It benefits them as they then have the opportunity to follow their own interests at home with their parents. For example we have some children who take part in equine therapy."
Set in the peaceful Shropshire countryside, the school embraces its rural location as part of its educational offer. With a large green field, forest school area, and easy access to local walks, outdoor learning is part of everyday life.
Pupils regularly take part in environmental and outdoor learning, with opportunities to explore the landscape and learn about sustainability and the natural world.
Recently, Key Stage 2 pupils have been working on a recycled art project, using collected materials to create artwork, and the school is looking forward to a visit from a local artist who creates sculptures from old pianos.
"We are a very small, rural primary school," continued Mrs Scott. "We benefit from being out here in the beautiful countryside.
"It is very quiet here and the children thrive in the beautiful setting."
Even spontaneous moments spark inspiration - such as the recent donation of two enormous pumpkins from a school parent. The unexpected gift fascinated children and has quickly become the basis for themed learning activities.
As a Church of England school, Weston Lullingfields has a strong spiritual and moral foundation. Pupils take part in regular worship, and are encouraged to explore their values.
The school's commitment to care, community and faith was highlighted in its recent glowing Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS) report in June.
Inspectors described Weston Lullingfields as a "hopeful and happy school" at the heart of its rural setting, and praised school leaders for creating an environment where pupils and their families "feel cherished".
"We are exceptionally proud of how well the children spoke about their learning, and how supportive our parents are and the whole school community," said Mrs Scott.
Despite her leadership responsibilities, Mrs Scott continues to teach in the classroom for part of the week - a balance that she says is key to maintaining close relationships with pupils and parents.
She added: "I love the school. I love that I get to teach as well as being headteacher.
"I really get to know the children and the families, and we really pride ourselves on knowing the children really well."
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