St Augustine Of Canterbury Pre-School

"This is Downend's hidden gem. My daughter started in reception class September 2020 and is flourishing. She loves school and heads in without a backward glance every morning. We had initially dismissed the school as we are not Catholic, and it is by no means our nearest school, but any initial fears were completely unfounded. The school ethos is one of caring and community, and my daughter loves the morning walk where we can discuss her day ahead (the WOW walking to school badges are also a welcome addition). Everyone I have met from teachers, office staff, the caretaker and other parents have all made us feel incredibly welcome, and like part of a family. Mr Hilliam, the head teacher, is outside to greet us every morning, whatever the weather, and always has time for a quick chat. It makes my daughter's morning. We are so happy we made the decision to send my daughter here. Thank you for making the start of her school career such a positive one."

"This wasn’t the closest school to us but when we visited we were both struck by the calm learning environment and well behaved kids. 8 years on, we still hold that view, especially seeing how well the school responded to the Covid crisis. Would highly recommend."

"Our twins started at St Augustine’s in September (2020) and are hugely enjoying themselves, running in each day without a backward glance. Despite the many pressures brought to bear by COVID restrictions, there has clearly been a tremendous amount of work behind the scenes to ensure the children are able to have as normal, fun and stimulating a time at school as possible. There is plenty of space and modern play equipment - the fact that the school has a playing field is a real plus when a number of others only have concrete. We also liked that the location is quiet, with easy parking and is away from areas of high traffic pollution. The Roman Catholic tradition of the school is expressed in firm boundaries and clear expectations on the children of positive behaviour - it’s evident that the ethos is one of mutual respect and kindness. This is echoed in the regular newsletters that keep parents & carers informed. Mrs Allen and Ms Kirby, as well as the other supporting staff in Reception class have been everything you would wish for as your children start school - fun and upbeat, engaged and affirming, patient and inspiring as they introduce new learning to small people. They are friendly and communicative with parents too, and the twins really love them both. Initial impressions are of strong, supportive leadership. We have been impressed that the headteacher Mr Hilliam comes out - smartly dressed -to greet parents and pupils most mornings, rain or shine. In a pandemic, his willingness to be visible and accessible is reassuring and gives a welcome sense of ‘keeping the ship steady’. The uniform includes a proper shirt with buttons and elastic tie. The twins at 4 years old have understandably found the buttons and tie challenging - requiring help to dress and undress morning and evening, but this is a minor quibble, and I’ll admit the children do tend to look smarter than where the uniform is polo shirt and sweatshirt. Parents of older pupils at the school have spoken positively to us of the quality of teaching and atmosphere as their children have progressed through the classes - judging by the smiling faces of children coming out at the end of the day, it definitely seems to be a happy school, and we are glad we chose it."

"Fabulous school! Small, welcoming and very friendly with a family feel. We looked around a few schools and, despite us not being Catholics ourselves and it not having the 'best' Ofsted in the area, this one appealed most to us. We followed our hearts and are really pleased. Our second child is now in reception. He's settled in well, is very happy and learning quickly. Am looking forward to the next 6 years!"

"My son goes to this school and he loves it!. It's a wonderful place where they also learn good values and to respect others. The teachers are excellent and they learn in a nice, friendly and safe environment. The children are well looked after and the PTFA and Governors are very friendly!! We have a very closed connection with the church and the Catholic faith is also a very strong point."