Primary Times - the definitive what’s on and where to go family guide of activities and events for children of primary school age. Things to do with your kids during the school holidays including arts and craft activities, music and theatre for children, parties, competitions, days out, and family attractions along with term time drama schools, dance classes, after school clubs and sports activities. Things to do at a place near you!
Transfer information and school open days 2024
We know that this is a unique time in the school life of Year 6 pupils who are looking forward to their move to secondary but also may be nervous at the prospect of such a big change. With this in mind, schools across the region will shortly be hosting open events in order for you to have face-to-face visits with them and find out all the information you need to make the very important decision about which school to send your child to.
There are other resources available that can help you and your family come to the right decision. Go to www.compare-school-performance.service.gov.uk to find the Progress 8 scores - this score shows how much progress pupils at a school make between the end of key stage 2 and the end of key stage 4. On the website you’ll also find league tables, statistics and the Ofsted rating for individual schools.
To find an Ofsted inspection report about an individual state maintained school visit https://reports.ofsted.gov.uk. For independent schools, inspection reports can be found on the Independent Schools Inspectorate website by visiting www.isi.net.
Designated (‘Catchment’) Areas
Although most pupils end up applying to the school in their designated area (sometimes known as ‘catchment area’, there are some schools that do not prioritise designated area children.. So, it is worth checking the admissions policy on each school’s website for further information on how the school decides which children have priority for the places available – the ‘oversubscription criteria’. Even if the school does not use a designated area for admissions, Cornwall Council will consider your designated area when looking at eligibility for Travel Assistance. If you are considering applying to a local independent school, it will have its own separate admissions procedure.You are strongly advised to name three preferences on the application form. Naming a second or third preference does not give you any less chance of getting a place at your preferred school.
Designated Areas in Cornwall: Cornwall Council has divided Cornwall into areas called ‘designated areas’. You might also hear them called ‘catchment’ areas. These are each served by a specific school or schools.
• Your designated school may not be the one nearest to your home address.
• Some schools include living in the designated area as a priority in their oversubscription criteria. This is the criteria they will use to decide who should have a place.
• Entitlement to travel assistance will be decided by Cornwall Council based primarily on whether or not:
• your address is in the school’s designated area; or
• it is your nearest school with a place available at the point of applying for a school place
• your child is in receipt of Free School Meals (there is additional support available for low-income families)
• If you want to find the designated or nearest school or schools for your address: go to www.cornwall.gov.uk/admissions
School Travel Assistance: You can apply for a school place for your child at any school, but your child may not necessarily be eligible for free travel assistance. The eligibility criteria for travel assistance is explained within Cornwall’s Home to School Travel Assistance Policy. You can read this document by visiting www.cornwall.gov.uk/schooltransport. Please read this document before applying for a school place and travel assistance.
Applying to a School outside the Designated Area: You’ll be asked to list up to 3 state schools in order of preference on your application form. Whether a place is offered will depend on the school’s admission process and if places are available.
Applying to schools outside Cornwall
If you live on the border of Cornwall, near Plymouth or Devon for example, and want to apply to a school outside Cornwall, you will need to make an application via the School Admissions Team at Cornwall Council – your home local authority. Simply specify your school of preference on your application form. The deadline date for application submissions of 31 October 2024 is the same in each local authority.
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The Application Process
Submit your application for a primary or secondary school place online. The online application system will generate an automated email response. For a change or preferred school after submission but before the application deadline, please access: www.cornwall.gov.uk/schoolpreferences
Cornwall Council Applications:
Reception/Transfer to Junior School Applications:
The online system will be available online between 4th September 2024 and 15th January 2025
Secondary School Applications:
The online system will be available from 4th September until 31 October 2024.
Cornwall Contacts:
• Education helpline: 0300 1234 101
• Online applications: www.cornwall.gov.uk/schools-and-education/schools-and-colleges/school-admissions/
• Email: schooladmissions@cornwall.gov.uk
• More information at https://www.cornwall.gov.uk/schools-and-education/schools-and-colleges/school-admissions/admission-arrangements-2025-26/
In a separate box
Allocation Days
The dates when school places are officially confirmed are:
3rd March 2025 – Secondary Schools
16th April 2025 – Primary Schools
Humphry Davy School
“Humphry Davy School has a strong reputation in the community for the highest quality of provision and a caring approach that enables students of all abilities to succeed and fulfil their potential. Visitors regularly comment on the ‘inclusive family feel’ of the school; a view reflected by Ofsted, May 2023, concluding:
"Pupils enjoy attending Humphry Davy School. They feel safe, happy and well-cared for. Pupils value the warm and respectful relationships they have with their teachers. It is a highly inclusive school where bullying is not tolerated. Pupils are kind to one another and respect diversity." "Pupils enjoy learning", "There is a strong culture of safeguarding", and "There is a strong sense of community."
The school works closely with partner primaries and has previously been recognised as a model of good practice for transition on the OfSTED website.
• Find out for yourself why Humphry Davy School is the preferred choice for families.
• Meet the friendly and talented staff.
• Take a tour of the outstanding facilities.
Go to: www.humphry-davy.cornwall.sch.uk Alternatively call 01736 363559 or email:enquiries@humphry-davy.cornwall.sch.uk”
Redruth School - Expect the Best
“A warm welcome awaits your child at Redruth School, with a strong focus on happy and healthy relationships, excellent behaviour and a culture of high expectation. The Headteacher’s and school’s vision is to develop well-rounded people with the characteristics, skills and knowledge required for life.
The school offers a challenging, inspiring and broad curriculum together with a wide range of extra-curricular opportunities. Our sporting facilities support many activities: badminton courts, climbing wall, swimming pool, cricket nets and pitches, athletics track and three playing fields. We also have a full range of subject clubs, Duke of Edinburgh, Cadets, creative arts, STEM and homework clubs.
“The school has excellent relationships with local primary schools and the wider community. Students are supported particularly well when they transfer from primary school to secondary school.” - Ofsted
All students are encouraged to discover new skills and talents when taking part in lessons, extracurricular activities, community events, sporting events and science and technology challenges.”
Truro High School
“An award-wining education – now accepting girls from aged 3
From this September Truro High School is extending its award-winning provision to accept girls from 3 years old.
Winner of Muddy Stilettos EYFS of the Year award in 2023, Truro High is shortlisted for Pre-Prep of the Year 2024 at the Independent Schools of the Year Awards and offers a truly excellent education for girls up to the age of 18.
We believe that all girls are unique and our teachers harness their boundless enthusiasm with an education designed to create academic curiosity, spark interests, develop young minds and generally engender a love for learning that can never be quashed.
From Music to Dance and from French to Art and Science, our littlest learners use practical hands-on lessons to think critically, test ideas, analyse, interpret and build resilience. Specialist teachers lead weekly swimming, dancing and outdoor learning lessons while our superb facilities open up a world of opportunities to enhance and build on learning thanks to our science labs, Textile studio, expert sports provision and performing arts centre.
To find out more, contact Mrs Jo Norriss on 01872 242902 or email registrar@trurohigh.co.uk. Give your daughter the best start in life – we cannot wait to meet her!”
Redruth School - Expect the Best
A warm welcome awaits your child at Redruth School, with a strong focus on happy and healthy relationships, excellent behaviour and a culture of high expectation. The Headteacher’s and school’s vision is to develop well-rounded people with the characteristics, skills and knowledge required for life.
The school offers a challenging, inspiring and broad curriculum together with a wide range of extra-curricular opportunities. Our sporting facilities support many activities: badminton courts, climbing wall, swimming pool, cricket nets and pitches, athletics track and three playing fields. We also have a full range of subject clubs, Duke of Edinburgh, Cadets, creative arts, STEM and homework clubs.
“The school has excellent relationships with local primary schools and the wider community. Students are supported particularly well when they transfer from primary school to secondary school.” - Ofsted
All students are encouraged to discover new skills and talents when taking part in lessons, extracurricular activities, community events, sporting events and science and technology challenges.
“The Headteacher’s vision of high achievement for all students is understood by the whole school community.” - Ofsted.
Students are supported through the development of positive attitudes and resourceful natures, to create strong, aspirational, independent and resilient individuals, who are capable and motivated.
Our Open Evening will be held on Thursday, 19 September, 5pm – 8.30pm. The school looks forward to welcoming you and your child.
Find out more at www.redruth.cornwall.sch.uk.
Truro and Penwith Academy Trust - St Ives School, Hayle Academy and Cape Cornwall School
The transition to a new school is a major step for children. Happy, confident children make successful learners, which is why St Ives School, Hayle Academy and Cape Cornwall School all take such great care over the transition process to support children joining these Truro and Penwith Academy Trust secondary schools.
The schools provide rich and diverse learning communities where every child is inspired to learn so they become confident, resilient and resourceful young people, able to achieve their full potential in life.
By paying careful attention to children’s individual talents, the schools build on their academic and personal strengths to ensure each child makes a flying start, right from the outset.
The schools’ dedicated staff teams are committed to providing the highest quality of care and support: with a winning combination of enthusiasm, hard work and dedication every child can achieve their aspirations.
The schools are hosting their annual Open Evenings in September which provide an opportunity to meet with staff and students and find out more about the range of opportunities on offer.
Hayle Academy Thursday 19th September 5pm – 8pm www.hayleacademy.net
Cape Cornwall School Wednesday 25th September 5pm – 7pm www.cape.cornwall.sch.uk
St Ives School Thursday 26th September 5.30pm – 7.30pm www.stivesschool.net
Truro School
“Steeped in 140 years of history, Truro School is Cornwall’s leading independent school for girls and boys aged 3-18. Situated over two campuses, its Senior School is set within 40 acres of sports fields and open spaces overlooking Truro and its iconic Cathedral, whilst a vibrant Prep School is located next to the Royal Cornwall Hospital.
This year Truro School is thrilled to announce that they have been shortlisted in two of the most highly coveted categories at the Independent Schools of the Year (ISOTY) Awards: ‘Co-educational Independent School of the Year’ and ‘Independent Prep School of the Year.’
It has been heralded as a vibrant independent school, championing ambitious, values-driven and opportunity-rich educational journeys. The winners, chosen by an independent panel of expert judges, will be revealed at an awards ceremony in October. Recognised as the leading awards in the UK independent education sector, the ISOTY Awards celebrate excellence in education. Dr. Helen Wright, Chair of ISOTY, remarked, “It has been truly wonderful to receive so many nominations which clearly celebrate ‘excellence in education’ and showcase the myriad of activities in which our students have the opportunity to excel.”
Being shortlisted for these national awards is a huge honour, reflecting the dedication and hard work of teachers, staff, pupils and students.
Truro School extends their thanks to the ISOTY judges for recognising their commitment to providing outstanding educational opportunities and for considering Truro School Senior and Prep to be ‘best in class’.”
Holsworthy Community College
Holsworthy Community College is a small academy set in rural Devon. As one of the founding members of the Dartmoor Multi Academy Trust, they live the cooperative values that the Trust holds at its heart.
The academy believes in providing excellence for all students in the greater Holsworthy area, so that students can achieve their goals. The dedicated staff at HCC will work together to identify and provide the assistance your child needs to maximise their achievement. They have high expectations for pupils and teachers alike to work together to ensure strong progress, from when pupils join them in Year 7, to when they leave in Year 11.
In their recent inspection Ofsted said that:
- The cooperative values of Holsworthy Community College are present throughout the school.
- Behaviour is calm and orderly. Pupils focus on their learning and enjoy a broad curriculum.
- Leaders have created an ambitious curriculum for all pupils. There is a clear intent for the curriculum in each subject.
As an integral part of the local community, HCC know their responsibility in providing the next generation of parents, employers and leaders in the greater Holsworthy area. Their mantra of ‘Small enough to know you, big enough to make a difference’ emphasises this. Their open evening is between 5pm and 7pm on Wednesday 25th September where you will be able to see how they are working to improve prospects in their area.
Humphry Davy School
“Humphry Davy School has a strong reputation in the community for the highest quality of provision and a caring approach that enables students of all abilities to succeed and fulfil their potential. Visitors regularly comment on the ‘inclusive family feel’ of the school; a view reflected by Ofsted, May 2023, concluding:
"Pupils enjoy attending Humphry Davy School. They feel safe, happy and well-cared for. Pupils value the warm and respectful relationships they have with their teachers. It is a highly inclusive school where bullying is not tolerated. Pupils are kind to one another and respect diversity." "Pupils enjoy learning", "There is a strong culture of safeguarding", and "There is a strong sense of community."
The school works closely with partner primaries and has previously been recognised as a model of good practice for transition on the OfSTED website.
• Find out for yourself why Humphry Davy School is the preferred choice for families.
• Meet the friendly and talented staff.
• Take a tour of the outstanding facilities.
Go to: www.humphry-davy.cornwall.sch.uk Alternatively call 01736 363559 or email:enquiries@humphry-davy.cornwall.sch.uk”
Redruth School - Expect the Best
“A warm welcome awaits your child at Redruth School, with a strong focus on happy and healthy relationships, excellent behaviour and a culture of high expectation. The Headteacher’s and school’s vision is to develop well-rounded people with the characteristics, skills and knowledge required for life.
The school offers a challenging, inspiring and broad curriculum together with a wide range of extra-curricular opportunities. Our sporting facilities support many activities: badminton courts, climbing wall, swimming pool, cricket nets and pitches, athletics track and three playing fields. We also have a full range of subject clubs, Duke of Edinburgh, Cadets, creative arts, STEM and homework clubs.
“The school has excellent relationships with local primary schools and the wider community. Students are supported particularly well when they transfer from primary school to secondary school.” - Ofsted
All students are encouraged to discover new skills and talents when taking part in lessons, extracurricular activities, community events, sporting events and science and technology challenges.”
Truro High School
“An award-wining education – now accepting girls from aged 3
From this September Truro High School is extending its award-winning provision to accept girls from 3 years old.
Winner of Muddy Stilettos EYFS of the Year award in 2023, Truro High is shortlisted for Pre-Prep of the Year 2024 at the Independent Schools of the Year Awards and offers a truly excellent education for girls up to the age of 18.
We believe that all girls are unique and our teachers harness their boundless enthusiasm with an education designed to create academic curiosity, spark interests, develop young minds and generally engender a love for learning that can never be quashed.
From Music to Dance and from French to Art and Science, our littlest learners use practical hands-on lessons to think critically, test ideas, analyse, interpret and build resilience. Specialist teachers lead weekly swimming, dancing and outdoor learning lessons while our superb facilities open up a world of opportunities to enhance and build on learning thanks to our science labs, Textile studio, expert sports provision and performing arts centre.
To find out more, contact Mrs Jo Norriss on 01872 242902 or email registrar@trurohigh.co.uk. Give your daughter the best start in life – we cannot wait to meet her!”
Redruth School - Expect the Best
A warm welcome awaits your child at Redruth School, with a strong focus on happy and healthy relationships, excellent behaviour and a culture of high expectation. The Headteacher’s and school’s vision is to develop well-rounded people with the characteristics, skills and knowledge required for life.
The school offers a challenging, inspiring and broad curriculum together with a wide range of extra-curricular opportunities. Our sporting facilities support many activities: badminton courts, climbing wall, swimming pool, cricket nets and pitches, athletics track and three playing fields. We also have a full range of subject clubs, Duke of Edinburgh, Cadets, creative arts, STEM and homework clubs.
“The school has excellent relationships with local primary schools and the wider community. Students are supported particularly well when they transfer from primary school to secondary school.” - Ofsted
All students are encouraged to discover new skills and talents when taking part in lessons, extracurricular activities, community events, sporting events and science and technology challenges.
“The Headteacher’s vision of high achievement for all students is understood by the whole school community.” - Ofsted.
Students are supported through the development of positive attitudes and resourceful natures, to create strong, aspirational, independent and resilient individuals, who are capable and motivated.
Our Open Evening will be held on Thursday, 19 September, 5pm – 8.30pm. The school looks forward to welcoming you and your child.
Find out more at www.redruth.cornwall.sch.uk.
Truro and Penwith Academy Trust - St Ives School, Hayle Academy and Cape Cornwall School
The transition to a new school is a major step for children. Happy, confident children make successful learners, which is why St Ives School, Hayle Academy and Cape Cornwall School all take such great care over the transition process to support children joining these Truro and Penwith Academy Trust secondary schools.
The schools provide rich and diverse learning communities where every child is inspired to learn so they become confident, resilient and resourceful young people, able to achieve their full potential in life.
By paying careful attention to children’s individual talents, the schools build on their academic and personal strengths to ensure each child makes a flying start, right from the outset.
The schools’ dedicated staff teams are committed to providing the highest quality of care and support: with a winning combination of enthusiasm, hard work and dedication every child can achieve their aspirations.
The schools are hosting their annual Open Evenings in September which provide an opportunity to meet with staff and students and find out more about the range of opportunities on offer.
Hayle Academy Thursday 19th September 5pm – 8pm www.hayleacademy.net
Cape Cornwall School Wednesday 25th September 5pm – 7pm www.cape.cornwall.sch.uk
St Ives School Thursday 26th September 5.30pm – 7.30pm www.stivesschool.net
Truro School
“Steeped in 140 years of history, Truro School is Cornwall’s leading independent school for girls and boys aged 3-18. Situated over two campuses, its Senior School is set within 40 acres of sports fields and open spaces overlooking Truro and its iconic Cathedral, whilst a vibrant Prep School is located next to the Royal Cornwall Hospital.
This year Truro School is thrilled to announce that they have been shortlisted in two of the most highly coveted categories at the Independent Schools of the Year (ISOTY) Awards: ‘Co-educational Independent School of the Year’ and ‘Independent Prep School of the Year.’
It has been heralded as a vibrant independent school, championing ambitious, values-driven and opportunity-rich educational journeys. The winners, chosen by an independent panel of expert judges, will be revealed at an awards ceremony in October. Recognised as the leading awards in the UK independent education sector, the ISOTY Awards celebrate excellence in education. Dr. Helen Wright, Chair of ISOTY, remarked, “It has been truly wonderful to receive so many nominations which clearly celebrate ‘excellence in education’ and showcase the myriad of activities in which our students have the opportunity to excel.”
Being shortlisted for these national awards is a huge honour, reflecting the dedication and hard work of teachers, staff, pupils and students.
Truro School extends their thanks to the ISOTY judges for recognising their commitment to providing outstanding educational opportunities and for considering Truro School Senior and Prep to be ‘best in class’.”
Holsworthy Community College
Holsworthy Community College is a small academy set in rural Devon. As one of the founding members of the Dartmoor Multi Academy Trust, they live the cooperative values that the Trust holds at its heart.
The academy believes in providing excellence for all students in the greater Holsworthy area, so that students can achieve their goals. The dedicated staff at HCC will work together to identify and provide the assistance your child needs to maximise their achievement. They have high expectations for pupils and teachers alike to work together to ensure strong progress, from when pupils join them in Year 7, to when they leave in Year 11.
In their recent inspection Ofsted said that:
- The cooperative values of Holsworthy Community College are present throughout the school.
- Behaviour is calm and orderly. Pupils focus on their learning and enjoy a broad curriculum.
- Leaders have created an ambitious curriculum for all pupils. There is a clear intent for the curriculum in each subject.
As an integral part of the local community, HCC know their responsibility in providing the next generation of parents, employers and leaders in the greater Holsworthy area. Their mantra of ‘Small enough to know you, big enough to make a difference’ emphasises this. Their open evening is between 5pm and 7pm on Wednesday 25th September where you will be able to see how they are working to improve prospects in their area.