Core CurriculumDesigned to spark curiosity and inspire children

Small class sizes allow for an exceptional level of personalised attention. Specialist teachers are introduced from Nursery, ensuring that children’s interests are discovered and developed early. A strong emphasis on literacy and numeracy in the younger years is complemented by specialist teaching in sport, languages, computing and the arts, delivering a broad and inspiring education that sparks curiosity and creativity.

Pre-Prep Foundations (Reception, Years 1 & 2)

In Pre-Prep, children benefit from excellent facilities and specialist teaching in French, Forest School and PE. While we prioritise early literacy and numeracy through play-based learning, we also place great importance on personal, social and emotional development.

Pre-Prep staff closely monitor each child’s progress and set personalised targets for future development. We follow the Read Write Inc. phonics programme and are proud that our early learning outcomes consistently exceed both national and local averages.

In Years 1 and 2, pupils develop strong numeracy skills, including calculation and data presentation. There is a strong emphasis on reading and oracy, which underpin writing. Children come to appreciate writing as a powerful tool for communication – whether for entertainment, expression, description or explanation – ensuring they are well prepared for the next stage of their education.

Through child-led learning, we ensure every child feels valued and supported while building independence and self-esteem. Strong, open relationships with pupils and families are central to our approach, with the senior pastoral team meeting weekly to discuss each child’s development and provide tailored support. This close partnership enables us to make a meaningful difference, promoting empathy, kindness and a strong sense of belonging.

Prep Development (Years 3–6)

Our rigorous and inspiring Prep curriculum encourages pupils to embrace challenge, develop resilience and grow in confidence.

With specialist teaching in languages, science, music, art, design technology and sport, pupils develop expertise and confidence early on. Lessons are engaging and challenging, with personalised support to ensure each child thrives. We also guide pupils preparing to transition at Year 7 through the senior school application process, helping them approach exams and interviews with confidence.

Pupils learn to manage challenges, build strong friendships and grow into compassionate individuals who make a positive contribution to society. Older pupils are encouraged to mentor younger children, reinforcing our strong sense of community and ensuring every child has a role model. Outdoor education and enrichment activities – including clubs, trips and residential experiences – promote teamwork, independence and adventure.

Upper Prep Accomplishments (Years 7–8)

Upper Prep offers pupils the opportunity to enjoy life at the top of the school during a truly special stage of their development. Children mature within a safe, supportive environment alongside staff who know and understand them well.

Our focus extends beyond academic achievement to include the development of social confidence and emotional resilience, preparing pupils for life beyond Barrow Hills. We place strong emphasis on higher-order thinking and analytical skills, encouraging pupils to become independent learners and confident problem-solvers.

Leadership and responsibility are developed through a range of “captaincy” roles. Pupils apply and interview for positions aligned with their interests, from Head of House to Head of Art or Head of Gardening. Weekly leadership meetings provide opportunities to set personal goals and reflect on progress, supported by staff and peers. These experiences help prepare our Upper Prep pupils to be confident, considerate and ready for the next stage of their education.

We work closely with families to ensure each child progresses to the senior school best suited to their talents, ambitions and character. Our pupils move on with confidence to a wide range of leading independent schools.