Pre-Prep FAQs

We value parental support and appreciate that learning takes place beyond the classroom. If you have anything in particular that you would like to discuss with your class teacher then please contact them, many teachers are available at the end of the day. We strive to communicate effectively about what is happening and write a ‘ditty’ to inform you of activities to further support your child’s learning at home and to look ahead to next week. 

As and when the children are ready, the teachers will introduce phonics – the ‘sounds’, as building blocks for reading. Towards the end of the Kindergarten, children may start to bring home boxes of sounds or simple words to show their parents, and within a fortnight of joining the Reception classes, we hold a Reading Workshop for parents to attend. Each child will receive an individualised reading program to ensure progression and success.  

Our play area has been recently developed with lots of ideas from our children. There are a variety of activities on offer at playtime, encouraging all the children to be actively engaged. The children have a quiet area for those who like to sit peacefully, they can also access a mud kitchen and large-scale construction.  

The woodland remains a favourite spot to chase in and out of and our large log climbing frame with climbing wall, tunnel and extended bark area is very popular too. There are three members of staff on duty who closely monitor what the children are doing and liaise with the class teachers when necessary. 

We charge for very few ‘extras’. We are passionate about offering an all-round rich learning experience and endeavour to include as much as possible within our advertised fees. Early Morning Club (from 3 years old), outings and workshops with visiting artists are all included. Our wrap around care is free for all children until 4:15pm, if you wish for your child to stay in After School Club until 6pm there is an additional charge.   

Clubs that are run by external providers may be charged at an additional cost which is paid directly. These include activities such as ballet, funky dance and judo. 

We have wonderful grounds and like to make the most of them come sun, rain or snow. In addition to regular playtimes, we hold many lessons out of doors in the fields, woodland, outdoor classroom or around the pond. Children are encouraged to look for insects in the woodland, observe seasonal changes, and participate in a wide variety of enjoyable outdoor activities including singing around the campfire and roasting marshmallows! 

We welcome all communication from parents and we believe in building a strong learning partnership with our families. There are many opportunities throughout the day for communication such as morning drop-off, emails and reading journals.   

Information can also be found on our ditty, newsletters, calendars and website. Regular letters and emails are sent out from class teachers and the Head of Pre-Prep, and there are termly Parent Evenings. All parents of our Early Years children (Nursery-Reception) also have access to TEAMS which is our sharing platform, you will receive information on how to use this as your child starts.  

Meals are nutritious and healthy. Our staff sit at the tables with the children and serve the meal. We monitor closely what the children are eating and drinking and ask that the children try a little piece of everything. We also encourage use of cutlery as well as good manners such as ‘please and thank you’!