ST BEDE'S CATHOLIC MIDDLE SCHOOL in Worcestershire, Redditch

Education Centre Information: St Bede's Catholic Middle School:

Establishment Type:Voluntary Aided School
Phase of Education: Middle Deemed Secondary
Status: Open
Local Authority: Worcestershire
Boarders: No Boarders
Sixth Form: Does not have a sixth form
Urban/Rural Description: Urban > 10k - less sparse
Special Classes: No Special Classes
Religious Character: Roman Catholic
Diocese: Archdiocese of Birmingham
Nursery Provider: No Nursery Classes
Total Pupils: 591
Number of boys: 301
Number of girls: 290
Age Range: 9-13
Gender: Mixed
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Background:

St Bede's was founded in 1972 as a Catholic middle school and is set in its own grounds near to Redditch town centre. 'Major' refurbishment took place in 1996 when a #1 million technology centre was completed. The school is oversubscribed with 200 applications for every 165 places. As a Catholic school, St Bede's has 'many strong links' with the parish, and several organisations use the premises for meetings. 'Active promotion and involvement' takes place within areas such as the local police and Redditch Youth Group. Instrumental tuition is available in brass, keyboard, woodwind, strings, guitar and drums, and the school tries to make music sessions 'full of purposeful enjoyment'. It also has an orchestra and choir. The school offers a 'range' of sporting activities, such as table tennis, football, netball, gymnastics and athletics, and has 'built up an excellent competitive record'. The school's drama club gives 'regular' productions throughout the year. Children also have the opportunity to take part in school trips to France and to Shell Island Outdoor Activities Camp. St Bede's aims to 'enable pupils to prepare for the modern world, by encouraging high academic standards which develop creativity, skills and critical thought'.