Westende is situated in a mature area on the eastern side of Wokingham, just a short walk from the town centre.
The building was originally open-plan around a central courtyard but a phased rationalisation programme has remodelled the internal space to provide light and spacious individual classrooms, and a learning environment that is well suited for all groups of pupils. The hall is equipped for physical education and is also used for assemblies, meetings, productions and as a dining area. There is a large ICT suite with a network of 16 computers with high-speed Internet access, a new purpose-built library and other areas suitable for a range of group activities.
Outside there are large hard play areas, extensive playing fields, quiet areas, an adventure playground, an environmental study area, a sensory garden and an open-air heated swimming pool.
Currently there are 8 classes, two in each year group, each with between 25 and 30 pupils. There is an additional part-time teacher who provides non-contact cover, and a substantial team of Learning Support Assistants.
We set and expect high standards from our pupils in both work and behaviour and they rarely disappoint. The curriculum is enriched by a wide range of visits and visitors, and a variety of after-school activities.
Westende School is additionally resourced to support up to 12 pupils with a statement of Special Educational Needs for Autistic spectrum Disorders. ‘The Acorns Resource’, as it is known, was the first such unit attached to a primary school in Berkshire when it opened in 1995. Up to three pupils are admitted annually at the start of Year 3, and move through the school with their peers, working largely in mainstream, but receiving teaching of special skills and programmes within their highly structured environment in a purpose-designed area of the school. The staff and pupils who make up The Acorns Resource bring significant benefits to all areas of life at Westende and help to give the school its unique ethos.
The school has an active and supportive parent body. Parents are welcomed into school and provide additional help in many areas. The Governors are interested and involved in the progress and life of Westende and join pupils and staff for training and on visits.
Westende is recognised as an ‘Investor in People’ and particularly commended for our staff development. We achieved the new National Healthy School Standard in July 2006, and were awarded the coveted 'De Bono Thinking School' kitemark for our use of the Six Thinking Hats (November 2006) Further information about the school, including recent news, can be found elsewhere on this website.