Eardley Primary School is housed in a large, three-storey Victorian building surrounded by spacious grounds, in a quiet, suburban street, writes Yvonne Gordon.

Located just within the borough boundaries, in Cunliffe Road, off Mitcham Lane, the school has a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.

On the day I visited, there was a Diwali assembly, where children dressed up in masks and costumes and acted out the story of Rama, Sita and Ravanna, to a backdrop of lanterns, drawings and decorated cards.

Eardley recently had a very positive Ofsted report, which said its leadership and management were very good and the standard of teaching and learning was particularly high in art, history, dance and swimming.

Larger than average, with 75 teaching and support staff, it serves 550 pupils from three to 11, who are mainly from the neighbourhood, but from many socio-economic backgrounds and cultures.

About 40 different languages are spoken and nearly 25 per cent of children speak English as an additional language, and are supported in class by specialist teachers.

Music has a high profile at the school, which boasts a steel band, recorder group and large choir, as well as offering individual violin and guitar lessons.

The grounds have a landscaped garden with a pond for science and environmental work and a separate play area for nursery-age children.

The school has its own small pool which has recently been refurbished and children also attend swimming classes at Tooting Leisure Centre.

Headteacher Andrew Marks said: "We aim to provide our children with a safe and stimulating learning environment, one in which the children can achieve to their full potential.

"We try to ensure a good education is provided across the whole social spectrum within a broad and balanced curriculum and are proud of our achievements in all areas, especially English, maths and science.

"Results are above the national average in English and science compared to similar schools."

Eardley has a broad range of extra-curricular subjects including sports, music, dance and French clubs.

There are three drama productions each year, frequent educational visits and a yearly camp to Broadstone Warren in East Sussex.

November 23, 2001 12:01