Situated in the heart of the National Forest, Donisthorpe is more than just a school; we are at the centre of our community, offering a safe, happy and welcoming environment where every child is valued and encouraged to flourish.

Our vision is simple yet ambitious: we want our children to be happy, safe, and nurtured, with the confidence to take on new challenges and the resilience to reach their full potential. We set high expectations for all, knowing that with the right support and encouragement, every child can achieve great things.

At Donisthorpe, we are proud of our values — Positive, Ambitious, Nurturing — which are woven through everything we do. We believe education is strongest when school and home work hand-in-hand, and we greatly value the involvement of our parents and carers in supporting their child’s learning journey.

Our committed and dedicated staff team work tirelessly to provide an engaging, broad and high-quality curriculum. Alongside academic learning, children experience opportunities that spark curiosity, develop creativity, and build character. With first-class care and encouragement, our pupils grow not only as learners but as kind, respectful and responsible individuals.

The warm and supportive ethos of our school ensures that children of all abilities thrive, develop confidence and take pride in their achievements. Our pupils enjoy contributing to school life, care for one another, and are proud to be part of the Donisthorpe family.

Mission Statement 

To be at the centre of the community, providing a happy, welcoming and safe environment, where all children receive a high quality education; enabling them to build a solid foundation for a successful future.

School Aims

Academic

We aim to provide and deliver a broad, balanced and innovative curriculum which encourages all children to learn confidently and develop with enjoyment and enthusiasm.

We aim to maintain high standards of teaching and learning which will extend a child’s abilities and enable them to achieve.

Social

We aim to foster the importance of citizenship and encourage our children to be caring, considerate and well behaved individuals. 

Environment

We aim to provide a welcoming environment where children, parents, Staff, Governors and the community work together to enrich the moral, social, intellectual, emotional and cultural development of each child.

We aim to provide a bright and stimulating environment, with excellent teaching and learning facilities in which everyone feels cared for, valued and secure.

Emotional

We aim to be sensitive to the physical and emotional needs of all and to promote high self esteem and self worth.

Collaboration

We aim, as Staff, Governors, Parents and members of the community to work together as a team recognising the importance of partnership in education.

We aim to be committed to Staff Development and Training recognising the impact high quality training has upon raising standards within school.  

Forest School

Our Forest School programme, in partnership with Little Acorns Forest Schools, offers sessions on our 11-acre school site and at Hicks Lodge. Children engage in activities such as tool use, bushcraft, seasonal nature projects and outdoor cooking. These experiences help children learn to assess risks, follow rules and explore the environment in a safe and supported way, fostering a lifelong connection with nature.

Sport

At our school, we are particularly proud of our Sports Ambassadors, who inspire their peers and help increase participation in sports activities. Their leadership encourages students to engage in a variety of sports and fosters a positive attitude toward physical activity. We are thrilled to announce that our efforts have been recognised with the prestigious Platinum Mark for school sports. This achievement reflects the hard work and dedication of everyone involved.

Music

The school uses the Leicestershire Music Primary Music Scheme, ensuring that students meet National Curriculum requirements while fostering a love for music through singing, instrumental learning and composition. Music lessons are designed to develop key skills, including teamwork, problem-solving, and creativity. Additional opportunities such as guitar and piano lessons, weekly singing assemblies, and participation in events like Young Voices and local performances enhance the musical experience.

Enrichment

Enrichment plays a vital role in broadening our childrens' learning experiences beyond the classroom. We bring cultural experiences into the school, allowing our pupils to explore diverse traditions, music and art forms from around the world. These opportunities help our students develop new skills while gaining a deeper appreciation for the world around them. Our enrichment programmes support the personal, social and academic growth of every child and create lasting memories.

Our schools are a supportive community where everyone helps each other grow and succeed.

Each school brings its own special strengths and by working together, we share ideas, resources and encouragement. Our close partnership means that staff and students all benefit from the collective experience and support, making sure that every child has the best chance to thrive. The Symphony Learning Trust Lead Schools have a proven track record of devising and leading national initiatives and highly effective School to School support. We are proud of the impact we have upon outcomes for children across schools.

To find out more about about the Trust please click here

Collaboration ★ Accountability ★ Expertise sharing ★ Improved outcomes