Preparatory
The Main School aims to build upon the firm foundations established in the Pre-School and the Pre-Prep, by offering a broad and challenging curriculum in a friendly and caring environment.
The school takes into account the requirements of the National Curriculum, as well as preparing boys and girls for a variety of selective tests and entrance exams, which are normally taken at 11+, to local state schools and independent senior schools.
The combination of form teachers, subject specialists and small classes (average 17), enables each child to reach his or her potential. Science, Information Technology and Art and Design Technology are taught in specialist rooms or buildings. The children also have plenty of opportunities for 'play' and for using their imagination in the wooded areas around the school.
All the children have classroom music lessons. Many children also learn to play an instrument for which they have additional lessons from visiting teachers and most are entered for external examinations.
Apart from instrumental tuition we offer the children the opportunity to play in the orchestra, which is open to all instrumentalists in the preparatory department whatever their standard. Our busy choir not only performs in school and in the local community, but has also sung nationally and abroad.
Sport is an important part of school-life and all children are encouraged to participate at a level that suits their talents. Rugby, soccer, cricket, netball, hockey and rounders are the main team sports. Athletics, swimming, tennis, golf and gymnastics are also offered. Regular inter-school fixtures are arranged to encourage the spirit of competition, teamwork and achievement and children are actively encouraged to further their sporting education by joining local clubs.
The children are expected to do homework every night, with a focus on reading, English, Mathematics and Science. Children may stay at school to do their homework, where they are supervised by members of the teaching staff.
After browsing our site I am sure you will have questions that can only be answered by seeing the school for yourself. During a visit you will have the opportunity of meeting the Headmaster and other senior colleagues, and of seeing the children and teaching staff at work in the school environment.
