At Downham Church of England Primary School, we are committed to fostering strong relationships within the local community. Through a range of partnerships with local organisations, churches, businesses, and services, we provide our students with opportunities to enrich their educational experiences. These local links are integral to the school’s ethos and support the development of our pupils in a variety of ways.

Partnership with Berlesduna Academy Trust

Downham School is proud to be working with the Berlesduna Academy Trust, which provides support and collaboration with other schools in the region. This partnership helps to ensure that our educational standards remain high and that we have access to shared resources, training, and expertise. Through the Trust, we also have the opportunity to participate in joint activities and initiatives, strengthening our connections within the wider educational community.

Links with Local Churches

As part of our school’s commitment to nurturing the spiritual development of our students, we have strong links with several local churches, including St. Margaret's Church in Downham and Ramsden Bellhouse Baptist Church. Each week, we welcome a different member of the clergy to lead our collective worship. This practice gives students the opportunity to engage with a variety of Christian denominations, fostering a greater understanding of different faiths and practices.

Our collaboration with the local churches extends to special events, including Christmas and Easter celebrations which the whole school participates in. Our Year 3/4 and Year 5/6 students participate in The Christmas Miracle and Life Expo, both at school and at The Billericay Baptist Church, deepening their knowledge and understanding of the religious significance of these occasions through fun and engaging activities.

School Choir's Community Engagement

Our school choir plays an active role in the local community, providing students with the opportunity to share their musical talents and connect with residents and community members. Throughout the year, the choir performs at various venues, including the Nags Head Pub, The Belfry residential home, and the Ramsden Heath Coffee Club and Luncheon Club. These performances not only help foster a sense of community but also give students the chance to contribute positively to local events and gatherings.

Sports Partnerships and Competitions

Downham School is a proud member of the William de Ferrers Sport Partnership, a collaboration with local primary and secondary schools that allows our students to access specialist PE teachers and participate in a wide range of sports activities. This partnership provides a strong foundation for developing physical education, and students have the opportunity to engage in both inter-school and intra-school sporting competitions.

In addition, we offer various extracurricular activities through our links with Bright Boots Coaching, who run netball and football clubs after school. These clubs provide students with further opportunities to develop their sporting skills and encourage a love for physical activity.

Engagement with Local Businesses and Services

We also work closely with local businesses and services to enrich our curriculum and offer memorable learning experiences. This includes partnerships with the Wickford Fire Department, Essex Police and Safer Essex, who provide valuable insights into community safety and emergency services. These collaborations allow students to gain a practical understanding of how local services operate and the role they play in keeping the community safe.