Pre-Prep
The Pre-Prep Department is housed in a separate self-contained area where foundations for a sound education are further enhanced in small class groups.
The children also enjoy the benefits of the main school facilities such as the Chapel, the Dining Room and Theatre, in addition to the Sports Hall, the Swimming Pool and the extensive playing fields.
The school day for the Pre-Prep Department starts at 8:25 am, and finishes at 3:30 pm, although children can attend an after-school waiting house until 6:00 pm. There is either an assembly or chapel service to start the day, followed by lessons until lunch.
The curriculum embraces Numeracy and Literacy as well as Science, History, Geography, Religious Education, French, Art and Crafts, Information Technology, Music and Physical Education. Language, Maths and Science are core subjects. We place great emphasis on the children learning to read and to think mathematically. Both English and Maths are taught daily.
Throughout the pre-prep we explore a variety of Science topics and they are given the time to try “hands on” experiments. In all subjects they are encouraged to record their work with writing and illustrations.
The children have swimming lessons each week and there is a wide and varied programme of outings to enhance their studies further. In their last two years in the Pre-Prep Department the children are coached in a variety of sports and have the chance to play in fixtures against other schools. During the summer term every child takes part in Sports Day, thereby having the chance to show thier parents the athletic skills they have acquired.
French is taught from the age of 2.5 years. All the children enjoy these lessons, which are taught with a mixture of songs, games and activities. In year 1 they are confident enough to begin writing in French.
Each week Years 1 and 2 have a sewing lesson. This is a very popular lesson and besides being great fun, improves their hand/eye co-ordination. It also gives them the opportunity to co-ordinate colours and work out simple designs. The children always enjoy taking their work home to give as gifts.
Computers are playing an increasingly important role in education and we have our own computer suite in the Pre-Prep. Each classroom has its own computer. Years 1 and 2 have a weekly computer lesson to learn basic computing skills. As these skills progress they are able to use what they have learned to enhance their learning in all areas of the curriculum.
