THE FIRST FIVE YEARS HAVE SO MUCH TO DO WITH HOW THE NEXT EIGHTY TURN OUT
Bill Gates
Welcome to Birchfield Pre-Prep
Pre-Prep comprises three year groups: Reception (ages 4-5), Year 1 (ages 5-6) and Year 2 (ages 6-7).
In Reception, the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) sets high standards for the learning and development of children from birth to five years old. We provide a safe, caring and nurturing environment allowing children to settle quickly and become competent, confident and curious learners. We support your child as they make the transition from EYFS into Year 1 and during Years 1 and 2 they will continue with their teachers to develop their skills in preparation for the Prep School.
The Pre-Prep department has its own entrance with purpose-built seating, to allow small group activities in the conservatory. Our cloakroom area with children’s individual storage boxes offers a wonderful first impression – a sea of ‘Birchfield colours’; yellow and green. The walls are adorned with children’s work contributing to the bright and vibrant atmosphere. The three classrooms are centred around a hub, creating a welcoming and nurturing environment .
The underlying aim of Pre-Prep is to develop and further build on the foundations laid in EYFS and continue to provide a safe, secure and stimulating learning environment that encourages all children to become confident in their own abilities. Pupils work towards developing confidence and accuracy in the key skills of reading, independent writing, spelling, handwriting and number work. Colourful, well-resourced flexible learning environments are designed to facilitate both independent and collaborative learning, developing key learning competencies.
Pupils in Reception enjoy weekly lessons in French, Music and PE, taught by specialist school staff. Regular Forest School sessions stimulate and engage young learners’ curiosity about the natural world. Throughout Pre-Prep, emphasis is placed on partnerships, with our teachers working closely with parents to address the individual needs of each child. Close monitoring of social and academic development, small class sizes and excellent parental communication all help contribute to the success and happiness of our young children in Pre-Prep.
