If you are a local parent with young children and are starting to look into local primary schools, the regular local parents’ primary schools reviews on Bishopston Mum should be helpful.

Today a local parent reviews Colston’s Primary School, a Co-operative Academy which is situated in Cotham and which has been rated as ‘Good’ by Ofsted.

I hope you find the review helpful…

How old are your children and what school year are they in?

I have a 6-year old in Year 1.

Was Colston’s Primary School your first choice of school and if so, why?

Yes, it was our first choice. We have close friends with kids at the school who recommended it. We loved the friendly, relaxed, diverse and inclusive feel of the school.

Plus they were building a brand new site for reception and year 1 which looked great!

What are the best things about this school?

The diversity and inclusiveness.

The teachers are great and we love the relaxed approach. No uniform helps!

So far there’s only been optional homework and encouragement for parents to read with their kids. We love it.

In your opinion, what could be improved upon?

The play area at the Cotham Grove site but plans are afoot…

What do you think of the school building, facilities and size of the school?

Currently our daughter is at the Elmgrove site which is just reception and Year 1 so there are 180 kids. It feels comfortable and friendly.

The outside space is great and the kids love it. The Cotham Grove site also has a really nice feel, totally different as old buildings but still comfortable and friendly!

What do you think of the staff?

Great – the new head, Mr Bell is really nice and approachable.

What are the school’s values?

‘Celebrating Diversity, Learning Together’ is the school’s strapline and the three golden rules are:

Be Kind, Be Responsible, Try Your Best.

Do children receive homework, reading and any other work to do at home?

In reception and Year 1 children have a reading book. Parents are encouraged to read with their children (not necessary a whole book) every day if they can.

So far Minnie has just had one lot of optional homework which was to make a castle poster.

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For more information about local schools in and near Bishopston, Horfield, St Andrews and Ashley Down, please see the Primary School information page on Bishopston Mum.