The pre-prep is housed in its own purpose-built premises and was opened in 1995. The department is surrounded by green spaces and ancient woodland. The grounds are a wonderful resource for science activities with the woodland, a meadow and a pond. There is also a purpose built adventure playground specifically for the use of the pre-prep children.
Entry into the Reception year is by assessment which takes place annually in January. There are three forms in each year group and a staff to pupil ratio of 1:10. Teaching staff are assisted by nursery nurses, teaching assistants and learning support staff. The children are also taught by specialists in art, music, sport and ICT and we have our own librarian.
The spacious classrooms each have double doors which open out onto a patio area and the Reception forms have a specially designed, secure, outdoor learning area. Every classroom has its own integral cloakroom and the Reception classrooms also have their own toilets. The large central atrium houses a well stocked library.
Every classroom, including the learning support room, has its own interactive whiteboard. All classrooms have in addition two computers. Children have a weekly session with the ICT specialist in the computer suite. Music lessons take place in the music school and we have use of the gymnasium and separate sports hall. The children have weekly swimming lessons in the school outdoor pool in the summer months.
Our aim is to provide an all-round educational experience of high quality and we place a high emphasis on children’s happiness and well being.