“The beginning of the learning journey”
Independent Schools Inspectorate Report 2011:
"From an early age pupils learn how to listen intently to explanations, questions, stories and instructions. They are articulate and provide descriptions that are increasingly complex. They quickly learn the basic skills of reading, writing and numeracy and their attainment in these areas is above and frequently well above average. Younger pupils make rapid progress with their reading, enjoying their books and relaying what they have read accurately in their own words."
Our youngest pupils start their educational journey at Dean Close Pre-Prep in the Early Years where they follow an exciting play-based curriculum, with a balance of child and teacher initiated activities to stimulate and develop each child. Our children take part in Music, P.E., take an active part in assemblies and shows and make use of our lovely grounds and Forest School.
Nursery
In our Nursery for rising threes, children love learning and developing their knowledge through exciting activities and play, whether in their bespoke outside play area, the Wendy house, dressing up, painting, cooking or listening to a story on the cushions.
Kindergarten
Children then move on to one of our two Kindergarten classes where they take their next steps in learning to read and write, being introduced to phonics and reading, developing number and topic-based learning. The conservatory area and outside playground adjacent to their classrooms provides a stimulating area for dressing up, water play and for using their imaginations to create their own world. Kindergarten also visit our Forest School every week, where they can learn about the wonders of their beautiful outside environment, have ICT lessons and are introduced to the French language through songs and games.
Reception
In Reception the children begin full-time school and the curriculum becomes more a little more structured with regular numeracy and literacy lessons alongside exciting topic work and child-initiated play in their dedicated play areas and playground. Pupils also begin swimming and tennis lessons and continue their French and Forest School visits.