Small schools offering big opportunities in your local area

If you’re trying to decide on the best school for your child, Devon is the right place to be.

Across the South Hams, there are quality schools which will provide the best education and social development for your child or children.

Find out more about some of the region’s top primary schools, including Broadhempston, Diptford, Ilsington, Harbertonford, Landscove and Stoke Gabriel.

At Broadhempston Primary School, we are at the heart of our community, providing a nurturing and supportive environment where children thrive. Our school is dedicated to helping each child reach their full potential, both academically and personally. We believe in creating well-rounded individuals who feel connected to their community and empowered to succeed.

A key feature of our school is our Forest School program, led by a Level 3 qualified staff member. Every half term, pupils engage in nature-based learning, where they have the opportunity to connect with the outdoors and develop essential life skills like resilience, teamwork, and problem-solving. This hands-on experience encourages children to explore, collaborate, and build confidence while fostering a love for nature.

At Broadhempston, we go beyond academics to focus on the emotional, social, and personal growth of each child. We are committed to providing a caring environment where every child is supported, valued, and encouraged to flourish. When you choose Broadhempston, you are choosing a school that will nurture your child’s development, helping them become confident, capable, and ready to succeed in life! Our latest Ofsted report, just published, highlighted two areas as Good and two as Outstanding.

Our new classrooms are designed to spark a love for learning and creativity in every pupil. With vibrant, well-equipped spaces, we create an environment that fosters curiosity, collaboration, and intellectual growth. We offer a broad range of enrichment programs, allowing pupils to explore their unique interests—from the arts to technology—helping them discover and develop their passions.

Our expansive outdoor areas provide ample space for play and hands-on learning, encouraging a strong connection with nature. Whether through nature walks, outdoor projects, or simply exploring, pupils gain a deeper appreciation for the world around them.

Additionally, our comprehensive sports programme emphasises teamwork, physical fitness, and the importance of an active lifestyle. By participating in a variety of sports, Pupils not only develop their physical skills but also learn valuable lessons in cooperation, resilience, and perseverance.

At the heart of our school is a supportive and inclusive community that nurtures every child’s growth. With a focus on creativity, exploration, and personal development, we provide a dynamic and enriching educational experience. Join us, and watch your child thrive in an environment where they are encouraged to explore, learn, and grow to their fullest potential.

Ilsington is a small, close-knit school where intimate class sizes foster a warm, family-like atmosphere. In this supportive environment, every adult knows each child personally, building strong relationships that help pupils feel safe, valued, and understood. Our dedicated teachers work closely with each pupil, tailoring their approach to ensure that every child’s needs are met, allowing them to thrive academically and socially.

Our exceptional outdoor grounds are an integral part of the learning experience, offering countless opportunities for exploration, play, and hands-on learning. Whether it’s outdoor science lessons, creative play, or environmental studies, nature is woven into our curriculum, enriching the educational experience and encouraging children to connect with the world around them.

At Ilsington, we embrace and live by core values that include Friendship, Kindness, Honesty, Resilience, Respect, and Compassion. These principles are not just words—they are actively modelled and reinforced in every aspect of school life, from classroom interactions to community events. Our motto, SMALL SCHOOL, BIG HEART, BIG IDEAS, BIG PICTURE, reflects our belief that each child can make a big impact when they are nurtured in a compassionate, innovative environment. Join us at Ilsington, where every child is valued, inspired, and encouraged to grow and reach their full potential.

Nestled in the picturesque rural setting of Harbertonford, just outside Totnes, our village school is not only a place of learning but a true cornerstone of the local community. We firmly believe that every pupil matters, and we are dedicated to creating a nurturing and supportive environment where each child feels valued, respected, and understood.

Our curriculum is designed to inspire a love of learning through engaging, hands-on experiences. We emphasise inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, and problem-solving, encouraging pupils to explore, question, and discover on their own. We make the most of our beautiful surroundings, incorporating outdoor exploration into our lessons, whether it’s through nature-based science projects or creative activities that connect pupils with the world around them.

Our strong, positive relationships among pupils, families, and staff foster a close-knit, inclusive community where everyone is treated like family. We actively collaborate with parents and local organisations, ensuring that our school is not just a place of learning, but a central hub of activity and connection in the village.

Join us at our village school, where we prioritise every child’s well-being, confidence, and growth, helping them develop into capable, compassionate individuals ready to embrace the future with enthusiasm and determination!

Landscove CofE Primary is a school dedicated to unlocking the potential of every child, providing a nurturing environment where pupils can thrive. We focus on holistic development, offering opportunities that prepare pupils for a dynamic, interconnected world. We deliver a rich, engaging curriculum designed to challenge and inspire, ensuring academic excellence while fostering creativity and critical thinking.

Global Citizenship: Pupils develop an understanding of global challenges like poverty and climate injustice, empowering them to become proactive, compassionate agents of change.

The Arts: Through our annual Arts Week, pupils showcase their creativity in exhibits and performances, fostering confidence, collaboration, and a love for the arts.

Food and Farming: Pupils engage in hands-on learning, experiencing the journey of local produce from field to plate. They gain practical skills in farming and cooking, promoting sustainability and healthy living.

Richer Life Experiences: We offer diverse learning opportunities beyond the classroom, including field trips, community projects, and outdoor education. These experiences inspire curiosity, broaden perspectives, and encourage a lifelong passion for learning.

At Landscove, we are committed to creating a supportive and inspiring environment where every pupil can reach their full potential and become well-rounded individuals prepared for the future.

One of our core values is Community, and our school lies at the heart of this strong and vibrant network. Every village event is designed to support our children and strengthen the school, creating an environment where everyone feels valued and part of something greater.

As a small, close-knit school, we pride ourselves on offering personalised attention and tailored experiences that cater to the unique needs of each pupil, ensuring they receive the individual care and support they deserve. We also build meaningful relationships with families and local organisations, fostering an inclusive and supportive atmosphere where collaboration is key.

Nestled beside the river, our scenic surroundings provide incredible opportunities for outdoor learning, exploration, and connection with nature. This natural setting enhances our curriculum and encourages curiosity, while our diverse enrichment programs inspire creativity, expand knowledge, and help children discover their passions. Whether it's through art, music, sport, or community projects, we offer countless opportunities for pupils to broaden their horizons. Join us in this vibrant and nurturing community, where every child is empowered to thrive, grow, and develop into their best self—both academically and personally. Together, we create a foundation for lifelong learning and success.