Winchester House School Nursery and Pre-Prep offers an ‘Outstanding Educational Experience’ in all areas of the curriculum (ISI March 2008) and sows the seeds for longstanding and flourishing friendships. The solid foundations for learning provide many opportunities for children to discover new interests and develop a range of talents.
Room to grow
Our Pre-Prep Department (3-7 year olds) consists of Nursery, Reception, Year 1 and Year 2. We are situated in a delightful self-contained building including a purpose built Nursery, six classrooms, library, music room, activity room and outdoor classrooms, all of which are surrounded by large playing fields. Our exciting playground and newly developed garden offer a range of physical and creative experiences designed to exercise growing minds and bodies and allow the children to build confidence and enjoy fresh air and fun.
Family atmosphere
Within the department there is a strong sense of community and we work hard to foster a warm, family atmosphere, where everyone feels valued. Small class sizes allow teachers to build long lasting, nurturing relationships with children and their families. Our friendly and flexible approach encourages children and parents to feel comfortable and able to talk to staff about anything at any time. Open sessions, coffee mornings and parent workshops are regular features and strengthen the school-family partnership.
A range of opportunities
We have an ongoing commitment to a broad and innovative curriculum encouraging active learning both within our bright and stimulating classrooms and outdoors in the school grounds. In addition to traditional class teaching the children enjoy specialist input for Music, PE, ICT, French and Learning Support. Swimming lessons are introduced in Year 1 at the local pool and all children enjoy the fun of our own open air pool during the summer months.
We believe our broad and balanced curriculum provides rich learning opportunities for all children, with an emphasis on exploration, enquiry, creativity, imagination and independence.
Broadening horizons
Educational visits, workshops and visiting speakers are key to our ‘hands on’, practical approach to learning and help to open up the ‘Big Curriculum’. We run a varied and exciting After School Activities programme (4.00-4.45pm) as well as Tailenders after school care (4.00-4.45pm) which extends the school day by one hour.
Themed weeks not only develop our creative approach to the curriculum but topics such as ‘Keeping Safe and Healthy’ support the school’s belief in good manners, healthy snacks, wholesome meals and regular exercise.
Building confidence
Our aim is for all children to discover their area of talent, build self-confidence and achieve their potential. A wide variety of teaching styles are used and children soon become confident users of interactive white boards and technology of all kinds. Participation in assemblies, plays, sports days, musical and creative events allow all children to grow and shine.
Celebrating achievement
Relationships between staff and children foster trust and respect. Self-confidence and the courage to make the most of opportunities is nurtured and the celebration of children’s achievements is a key part of our approach throughout Nursery and Pre-Prep. Regular assemblies celebrate individual and group achievements in addition to looking at moral and religious aspects of life. Weekly Personal, Social, Citizenship and Health Education lessons (PSCHE) and circle time activities help children build confidence with social skills and encourage them to acknowledge each other’s success. The children follow the Winchester House Way which outlines the Pre-Prep expectations and encourages the children to always be their best self.
