Inspired by nature, driven by curiosity

Welcome to Thoresby Vale Primary Academy – a brand new primary school, nestled in the historic village of Edwinstowe, in the heart of Sherwood Forest.

 

The opening of our academy in  September 2025 represents the culmination of extensive work and collective efforts from across Diverse Academies Trust, working in close partnership with master developers Harworth Group, Nottinghamshire County Council and the Department for Education. Together, these teams have played a vital role in bringing the project to life, reflecting a shared commitment to delivering an inspiring learning environment that embodies the Trust’s vision and values.

 

Our wonderful academy combines modern facilities with a unique vision for learning. We offer forest-style education alongside a strong academic curriculum for children aged five to eleven (reception to year 6).

 

We can’t wait to welcome you and your family to our school community.

A unique school site

Thoresby Vale Primary Academy isn’t just a school – it’s at the heart of an exciting new community being developed by Harworth Group plc. The academy is set within a neighbourhood of 800 new homes, next to a stunning 350-acre country park.

View our location within Thoresby Vale development

 

Our academy is surrounded by woodlands and wildflower meadows, offering children the chance to learn and play in nature. The school grounds have been designed to celebrate nature and sustainability, with woodlands, wildflower meadows and outdoor learning areas for children to explore. A food production area and orchard will help children learn about growing, ecology and the environment. The building itself has been designed to be energy efficient, featuring solar panels and natural ventilation, creating bright and welcoming classrooms filled with natural light.

Our build progress

Follow along as we shape the foundation of brighter tomorrows. From the first groundbreaking moments to the final touches, we’re thrilled to share every milestone with you – in partnership with Harworth Group plc.

Frequently asked questions

When can I apply for a school place?

Places are available for all year groups. You can apply for a place through the Nottinghamshire County Council website. For further details on the application process, please refer to the admissions section of our website.

I have been offered a place at Thoresby Vale Primary Academy. How do I confirm/accept my child’s place?

If you applied online, you should be able to accept the offer through the same online system. If you experience any issues, you can contact the Nottinghamshire County Council  customer service centre on 0300 500 8080 to accept the offer by phone.

What is the catchment area of Thoresby Vale Primary Academy?

The catchment area for Thoresby Vale Primary Academy can be found on Nottinghamshire County Council website.

Which secondary school will Thoresby Vale Primary Academy be affiliated with as a feeder school?

Thoresby Vale Primary Academy will be part of the Dukeries family of schools and will serve as a feeder school to The Dukeries Academy.

How many children will the school accommodate and what will be the class sizes?

Nottinghamshire County Council plan for the academy to start by accepting 120 children and gradually increase to 210 children over a number of years, becoming a one-form entry primary school.

This is made up of 30 children in reception and 15 children from year 1 to year 6 in the first year of opening.

You can find more information about the planned class sizes on the admissions section of our website.

Will there be a wraparound care available?

We are in the process of finalising the details for our breakfast and after-school clubs. We will share this information once it has been confirmed.

Will there be a nursery provision?

A nursery will not be part of the school’s initial opening phase. However, we recognise the importance of high-quality nursery provision, and we remain open to introducing one in the future if there is clear demand from families in the community.

We are currently accepting children from reception to year 6 (children aged 5 to 11 years). For a reception place in September 2025 your child’s fifth birthday must fall between 1 September 2025 and 31 August 2026.

Can I visit the school for a tour before it opens?

We hope to offer tours of the new building in the future and will share more details as soon as the information becomes available.

What is a forest school?

‘Forest school is an inspirational process offering all learners regular opportunities to achieve and develop confidence and self-esteem through hands on learning experiences in a woodland or natural environment with trees. Forest school is a specialised learning approach that sits within or complements the wider context of outdoor learning.’ www.forestschoolassociation.org

At Thoresby Vale Primary Academy, our curriculum will provide every child with the best possible chance to learn and grow. We follow the early years foundation stage for the youngest children and the national curriculum from key stage 1. This is enhanced by our ‘natural curriculum’ which is inspired by our unique setting in the forest.

You can find more details on our curriculum page.

How will you engage with the local community?

We will be launching a ‘Friends of Thor’ group, bringing together families and members of the wider community to help build a strong and connected Thoresby Vale Primary Academy community.

The group will provide opportunities for everyone to get involved in various activities, including fundraising events, social gatherings, and community initiatives.

Find out more on our community page.