PRE PREP
We believe that children should be happy, secure and confident at school and our aim in the Pre-Prep is to give each child the best possible start to their school life.
In a caring environment where the values of co-operation and self- discipline are encouraged the children learn to work and play together. Creativity, thoughtfulness and kindness to others are fostered in the family atmosphere.
Whilst there is a strong emphasis on the traditional elements of numeracy and literacy , children are also offered a full and varied curriculum so that young minds can be stretched and encouraged. A variety of educational visits, visitors, year group plays and assemblies give every child the chance to broaden their horizons.
Limited class sizes means that we are able to give your child a lot of individual attention and, as a result, every child can experience a sense of achievement from an early age.
Foundation Stage (Nursery & Reception)
The Nursery and Reception classes follow the Early Years Foundation Stage with its emphasis on learning through play. Through play children learn about themselves and the world about them and our children are given daily opportunities to explore and investigate for themselves.
Firm foundations are laid in the essential skills and the weekly timetable is structured to guarantee a varied and exciting programme offering a wide range of practical experiences intended to motivate and stimulate.
Working alongside a qualified and experienced class teacher each class has a teaching assistant who plays an important part in the children’s learning. Each class also benefits from specialist teachers for Physical Education (PE), Music and ICT. Our staff/pupil ratio allows children to develop as individuals and be supported or challenged according to their needs in secure and caring surroundings. Each child’s educational needs are regularly discussed with the parents and staff are always on hand to offer support.
Years 1 and 2
We continue to build on the children’s prior knowledge and provide a rich and varied topic based curriculum during Key Stage 1. In addition the boys are prepared for assessment days for entry into the Prep. School of their choice. There is a balance between practical and theoretical learning and where possible we use a ‘hands on’ approach to engage children.
Competence in English and Mathematics is fundamental and all classes have a daily numeracy and literacy lesson. In addition the children are taught the core subjects of Science and Information and Communication Technology (ICT, together with History, Geography, French, Art, Design and Technology (DT), Music. PE, Personal Social Health and Citizenship Education (PHSCE) and Religious Education (RE).
Again qualified and experience class teachers are supported by a teaching assistant. In addition to the specialist teaching started in Reception the children also start French through a weekly program of oral work involving role play, songs and games. The learning support teacher is also timetabled to be in each class to provide valuable help to individuals and small groups as necessary,
A variety of after school activities are available for years 1 & 2 and these add a further dimension to school life.
At the end of their time in Lower School we believe that the children are well prepared to take on fresh challenges as they progress either to the Upper School or, in the case of boys, to their chosen Prep. School.