Preps & Pre-Preps
Our commitment to academic excellence sits at the heart of everything we do. From a strong foundation in core subjects such as English, Mathematics and Science, our pupils are equipped with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in an ever-evolving future.
In a rapidly changing world, where today’s children may work alongside AI or even holiday in space, developing well-rounded, emotionally intelligent, and intellectually curious individuals, rooted in our Catholic ethos, has never been more important.
Reception – A Strong Start
Our pupils move seamlessly from Nursery to Reception, as they have many opportunities throughout the year to work and play together and they benefit from full use of the school’s resources, staff and facilities. Active, hands-on learning is central to our approach in Reception. Children build strong foundations in Mathematics, Literacy, Phonics and early problem-solving, while also developing their understanding of the world around them through exploration and curiosity-led enquiry. Social and emotional growth is supported every step of the way, alongside focused development of gross motor skills, laying the groundwork for physical confidence and future sporting success.
In Reception we offer small class sizes and a high staff-to-pupil ratio allows for personalised support and a vibrant, engaging learning experience.
Our inspirational teachers spark a love of learning early on, using research-based approaches that are creative, forward-thinking, and grounded in giving children a proper, joyful childhood – while preparing them for the world ahead.
Our pupils have opportunities for sport, music, dance, drama and art and enjoy challenges that encourage them to question and understand the world around them. Where pupils are working beyond their early learning goals in an area, we naturally extend their learning and objectives.
Years 1 & 2: (Key Stage 1) – Building Strong Foundations
Our visionary curriculum for Years 1 and 2 builds on the creative and innovative approach in Nursery and Reception.
High quality Maths, English, Phonics, RE, Science, Computing and PSHEE lessons with experienced teachers ensure that children continue to build their core skills. At the end of Key Stage 1, 73% of our pupils are exceeding ​age-related expectations in Mathematics, with 87% exceeding expectations in Reading.
Expert teachers of Art, Music, PE and Modern Foreign Languages provide a broad and balanced curriculum developing each child in the round, and in Year 2 pupils have the chance to learn flute, piano, violin or cello.
We know children are concerned about the environment and we begin to empower them at an early age. Outdoor lessons, including regular time in the allotment, continue the journey begun in Nursery – embedding a knowledge of sustainability in practice.
Religious Education is taught through ‘The Way, the Truth and the Life Series’, with pupils involved in preparing and leading their own worship.
Our intelligent curriculum design integrates best pedagogical practice with a commitment to personal development.
Years 3 - 6: (Key Stage 2) Developing Voice, Vision & Values
In our Preps School, pupils are stretched academically, spiritually, and creatively. Our outstanding teachers encourage and extend our pupils in all aspects of education and development.
As a small school we know each child through and through. Our innovative Preps curriculum provides extensive opportunities for children to work collaboratively, developing their individual talents and a genuine appetite for learning.
Educational visits, workshops and curriculum-focused weeks such as, Science Week, Book Week, Maths Week and Healthy Schools Week enhance the pupils’ learning experience. Older students also enjoy a variety of residential trips including, a Year 6 French Trip, team building trips and ski-trips.
Our Key Stage 2 pupils consistently perform well above national averages in reading, with standardised benchmark tests showing an average reading level 11 points higher. Additionally, 30% of Prep pupils are identified as having superior or very superior reading skills, according to Test of Word Reading Efficiency descriptors.
Thanks to our extensive grounds, we can offer an unusually broad extra-curricular programme, with younger students having the chance to participate in sports, music and drama activities with senior pupils. These activities also run in parallel with a diverse programme of workshops by visiting subject specialists, speakers, musicians, actors, scientists and facilitators.
As pupils move through the school we increase the scope of responsibilities available to them, to prepare them for Senior school and increased autonomy. We expect them all to take an active part in our community whether leading assemblies, clubs or taking part in competitions.
We are preparing children for a global future in a world where human activity is testing planetary limits. Young people need emotional and intellectual readiness – to be able to listen, adapt, negotiate, and lead. These are the skills that will shape future changemakers.
Learning Through Nature
Our expansive grounds offer a unique outdoor classroom. From Forest School and farming to prayer gardens and sports on our full-size astro, pupils learn in and from the world around them.
Preparing for the Future – Academics and Beyond
Alongside academic excellence, our pupils develop into well-rounded individuals ready to lead with compassion, think globally, and act wisely. They learn to speak up, listen deeply, and contribute meaningfully to the world.
For further information on the next step of our Admissions process see our Admissions page or to book a visit.