The primary school places deadline is fast-approaching. And one local school hopes to make the decision easy for you and your little ones, as they are opening their doors to the community this weekend. 

Dean Valley Community Primary School, of Albert Road, Bollington is to host an open day this Saturday.

The free-to-attend event will take place on the morning of Saturday, October 19, from 10am to 12pm. 

As well as serving as a way to get a feel for, and a tour of the school, the event is also set to be a 'morning of fun'. 

More information about this weekend's event. (Image - Dean Valley Community Primary School)

"We look forward to welcoming the community this Saturday," said headteacher Vicky McPherson. 

Three-to-four year olds, set to start reception in September 2025, will be able to take part in a variety of activities. 

This includes biscuit decoration, playing in their large outdoor gym, taking part in their innovative 'forest school' sessions, and a range of craft activities. 

There will also be sports activities, arranged by the school sports ambassadors, and 'active in mind champions', who have the goal of making exercise accessible to all. 

The school was established in 1974. (Image - Dean Valley Community Primary School)

For the parents, you can learn about Dean Valley's rights respecting ethos, and school values which promote 'success and fulfilment for all', a slogan of which, is proudly displayed at the school's entrance. 

In fact, pride has been a huge theme for Dean Valley in 2024. As the red-clad school celebrated their 50th anniversary earlier this year. 

You will be able to gain a flavour of what everyday life for Dean Valley pupils is like, through attending Saturday's open morning, where you will be warmly welcomed by staff and current pupils. 

Parking is free outside of the school. And you do not have to book to attend. 

The school is located at Albert Road, Bollington, Macclesfield SK10 5HS. (Image - Dean Valley Community Primary School)

Unlike other local primary schools, you may have noticed Dean Valley has the word 'community' in their name. 

This is not just a filler word. For example, the school has fundraised a total of £5000 over the past two Christmas periods, for the Macclesfield charity East Cheshire Hospice. 

Children also go out into the community; visiting the local library, performing concerts for older members of the local community, and there is ever-increasing representation of the school in sporting events, which has seen the school earn another Sainsbury's Games Platinum Award for their large sports participation and SEND pupil inclusivity. 

Macclesfield Nub News spoke to four current pupils, to find more about life at Dean Valley Community Primary School. 

You have until January 15 2025, to apply for a primary school place, for your child to start in September 2025. (Image - Dean Valley Community Primary School)

"The thing I enjoy most about coming to school, is you get to meet loads of people," said Sylvie. 

"Everyone is really friendly, so you make friends with other Key Stage groups as well. 

"Most of the sessions are really fun, my favourites are maths and art." 

"Maths has always been fun," said Amy. 

Part of the recently-spruced up outdoor play area at Dean Valley Community Primary School. (Image - Dean Valley Primary School)

"It is quite interactive."

"We have learned French and Spanish while we have been here. I like Spanish, it is a really fun language."

"It is very nice coming here. Instantly you make friends," said Jasper. 

"Whenever you come here, it is always welcoming. You know the teachers always have a smile on their face."

If you can not make Saturday's open day, you can arrange a tour of the school via 01625 572767. (Image - Dean Valley Community Primary School)

"The sports here are really good," said Neve.

Neve's sporting interest saw her put herself forward to gain the aforementioned 'active in mind champion' title. 

"We went to Wilmslow High School, to become a 'sports ambassador and active mind champion'. We learned how to be leaders, and co-host interactive sports with other children." 

The message to four-year-olds choosing a school would be: "We are a community school, and once you are part of the Dean Valley family, you are always part of the Dean Valley family," said Jasper. 

The school has a capacity of 210 pupils. (Image - Dean Valley Community Primary School)

"I went to a different school first. I arrived here later. It is was a great place to immediately make new friends," said Amy. 

"For the children that might come to this school. You are going to be learning from the start, but it is more than work, it is about friendship and building a bond as soon as you arrive," said Neve. 

"If you are ever worried, there is always a trusted adult to speak to who will help you. Don't worry if you find things hard," said Sylvie. 

When pressed for one word to describe their school, here is what their Year 6 pupils had to say. 

As part of the school's 50th anniversary celebrations, pupils were encouraged to paint signifiers of the decades that the school has existed in. (Image - Dean Valley Community Primary School)

"There are too many words," said Amy. 

"But the first word that comes to mind is community."

"Sporty,: said Jasper.

"Interactive," said Neve. 

Dean Valley pupils are given the opportunity to gain extra roles, to develop character. (Image - Macclesfield Nub News)

"We are an inclusive school," said Sylvie. 

The school has an active PTA, who are an important part of the school community, giving the parents and staff the chance to work together for the good of the school, ensuring children get everything they need to grow, learn and experience the widest possible range of opportunities whilst at Dean Valley. 

Kate Whiting, PTA treasurer at Dean Valley Primary School said: "I have been involved with the PTA for many years. It has been a lovely positive experience, where I have made lots of new lifelong friends, contributed in a small way to raising money for school, and to be involved in my school and children's lives." 

If you cannot make this Saturday's event, please call the school via 01625 572767 or email [email protected], to book your tour with the headteacher. 

These historic portraits by students, is a testament to the quality of art education in the school. (Image - Dean Valley Community Primary School)

"I am incredibly proud of our inclusive school. Being able to provide a broad and balanced curriculum for all is important to each and every one of us. 

"Our aim is to ensure all children reach their true potential academically, while developing their diverse and unique talents." 

Macclesfield: Find more about the school on their website. And you can also click HERE to download their prospectus. 

Dean Valley Primary School sponsor Macclesfield Nub News.

Dean Valley Primary School sponsor Macclesfield Nub News. (Image - Macclesfield Nub News)