Porton
We are a primary school in Porton
Porton is a village in the Bourne valley, Wiltshire, about 5 miles north-east of Salisbury. A small, stylish village with a strong sense of community, tradition and home to our wonderful school. The village gives its name to the nearby Porton Down military science park, which is home to the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory and related businesses.
It is the largest settlement in Idmiston civil parish.
The Porton Down Science Park is one of the most important scientific research centres in the UK. It is home to a number of government agencies, including the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL), which is responsible for developing and testing new technologies for the UK's armed forces. The science park also houses a number of private companies, including pharmaceutical and biotech firms, which conduct research into new medicines and treatments for a range of diseases.
Despite its small size, Porton has a rich history. The village is home to a number of historic buildings, including the Grade II listed Porton House, which dates back to the 18th century.
Porton Amenities
Salisbury Reds operate a regular bus service through the village.
Porton has a small, local shop for essentials, a GP surgery and the amazing family-run Porton Garden, Aquatics and Pet Centre which also has a café.
Idmiston Village Hall which is actually in Porton, have a thriving activity centre with some wonderful clubs for all.
There are a number of brilliant nurseries in the area.
Population 887 in 2021 census
St. Nicholas Church is our local parish church, and we hold very close links with the Bourne Valley Team Ministry which is led by Rev'd Peter Ostli-East. We are visited by a member of the Bourne Valley Team to lead our daily worship once a month and we regularly walk to church, as a school, for special services inviting families to join us. Here at school we explore our faith in a variety of ways and have many opportunities to pray for our friends, families and others around the world. The children enjoy making their own teaspoon prayers and also writing prayers to put onto our Prayer Tree.
Our links with the local area
At St. Nicholas, we are deeply proud of our connections to the local area and the communities we serve. These relationships are an essential part of our school’s ethos, enriching both our students’ education and their sense of belonging.
Celebrating Community and Tradition
Each Autumn, we celebrate the Harvest Festival at our local church, where we come together to give thanks and support those in need. Donations from this event are directed to the Salisbury Food Bank, making a meaningful difference to our wider community. Following the Harvest Festival, we host an annual Macmillan Coffee Morning—a cherished tradition that brings together new and existing families, fostering friendships and a welcoming spirit.
At Christmas, our students spread joy by singing to local community groups and sending handmade Christmas cards to local charities, a gesture that is always warmly received. Seasonal services for Christmas and Easter, as well as our summer Leavers’ Service, take place at the church, inviting all members of the community to join in these special moments.
Inspiring Aspirations
In alignment with our Big Idea to be Aspirational, we regularly invite local businesses and industries to speak with our students about their career pathways. These visits inspire children to see how their hobbies and passions can evolve into fulfilling careers, broadening their horizons and nurturing ambition. Visits have included representatives from DSTL and PHE as well as chefs, sports coaches, policemen, nurses and doctors. We even had an opera singer come and perform!
By maintaining and celebrating our links with the local area, we ensure that St. Nicholas remains a vibrant, community-focused school where every child can thrive.
Frequently asked questions
How far is the school from the village of Porton?
From central Porton, our school is only 0.5 miles away, a 2-minute drive, a 13-minute walk or a 4-minute cycle.
What transportation is available for children in Porton?
It is possible to walk to school and there are drop off spots only for children being driven to school. St Nicholas' School does have private bus routes for its pupils in Years 3–11. The school office can provide more information about the bus routes and how to reserve a place for a child.
Are there any local clubs in Porton for primary school children?
There is more information about the activities and events at our local Village Hall.
How do I enrol my child in the primary school if we live in Porton?
Applications are submitted through Wiltshire Council. Parents will receive notification from the local authority of your allocated school reception place for September 2025 to early April. Shortly after this, we will be in contact with families to give you more information about our transition visits.