Small and supportive classes
Children are taught in small class sizes that are specifically tailored to their year group. Without mixing year groups, we can ensure all teaching is individualised and focused on the appropriate curriculum. Each class is kept small, but year groups are larger which supports peer learning and social interaction opportunities, crucial for early years development.
Reception (ages 4-5)
Children can enter our Reception classes in the September following their 4th birthday. Our class sizes are small, enabling us to provide a supportive, stimulating and creative learning environment and the children have constant access out onto their own secure outdoor play area.
In these years boys and girls begin their education in a caring, creative and challenging environment. There are two classes, each with a qualified teacher plus a teaching assistant.
Curriculum – Years 1 and 2
In Key Stage 1 we endeavour to create an environment in which all children can blossom and thrive. We encourage and build upon their self-confidence, independence and responsibility in all activities, from unpacking their bags in the morning, making choices at lunchtime and accessing the right equipment to support their learning.
We follow the National Curriculum for Key Stage 1 in English, maths, science and reading. This ensures children are taught a breadth of skills and knowledge, which are in line with their peers. We enrich this learning though our topic-based approach to planning. This encourages children to explore and make connections between different subjects and gives the children a rich, dynamic learning experience. Basic skills are taught in numeracy and literacy lessons, following the National Curriculum.
Our children move into Years 1 and 2 excited and ready to learn after a solid start to their educational journey in the Early Years. Our provision for children in Years 1 and 2 builds on the EYFS curriculum and follows key elements of the National Curriculum. It is an enhanced and creative programme and includes additional specialist activities and lessons.
Teaching and learning opportunities promote active engagement, depth of learning and motivation. In addition, small class sizes are hugely effective in providing a high level of focused teacher involvement with each child. Our dedicated teachers offer rich and exciting experiences with regular trips, visitors and plenty of opportunities for hands-on investigation and problem solving. Pupils continue to build upon and benefit from the specialist teaching lessons introduced during the Early Years.
Year 1 (ages 5-6)
Our curriculum follows the guidelines of the National Curriculum, yet remains flexible to allow us to embrace the unexpected. Fun activities reflect our ethos of learning through enjoyment, enquiry and discovery. Our curriculum is a broad and balanced one, giving our pupils the very best opportunities to study a wide range of subjects, including a variety of sports, whilst our outstanding drama and musical productions give the children the opportunity to perform and develop their creativity.
Year 2 (ages 6-7)
In Year 2 the teaching day is extended to 3.45pm.
Our curriculum is a broad and balanced one, giving our pupils the very best opportunities to study a wide range of subjects, including a variety of sports, whilst our outstanding drama and musical productions give the children the opportunity to perform and develop their creativity.
Our children are encouraged to become more independent at this stage and many of them take on roles of responsibility through our successful House System, Eco Council and Pre-Prep School Council.