Pre-Prep Academic FoundationsStretching, challenging & inspiring

Moving from Kindy though to Pre-Prep, our Reception children continue to work above and beyond national expectations.

The Early Years framework curriculum is the basis for all our teaching and learning in Reception, but is greatly enhanced by our further specialist teaching in Art, IT and Drama, in addition to Sport, Forest School, Music and French. From Reception children enjoy timetabled visits to the science lab where they begin to get used to the setting, equipment and language of science and how it links to their curriculum studies e.g Habitats. This breadth of additional learning ensures that good foundations are laid in these formative years and the flame for learning burns ever more brightly each day.

Our small classes are led by excellent practitioners with a flair for imaginary learning and true enthusiasm for the care and education of young children. Activities are often still Child Initiated giving children ownership of their own learning; to think and choose for themselves, solve problems and pursue their own interests and talents driven by their natural imagination.

I love my job because of the enormous privilege that comes with it each day in making a contribution to children’s development and progress in some of their most impressionable years. Seeing the children grow and develop, watching them turn into independent learners, exploring their surroundings and sparking curiosity is the best part of my role. It is always exhilarating to see little moments of discovery and joy in their faces.

Here at Barrow Hills we have a happy, safe and nurturing environment which ignites a lifelong love of learning from your child’s earliest education. This equips our children with skills and passions which stay with them for their future so active engagement, exploration, and discovery underpins all that we do, and I consider it a real privilege to witness this first hand every day.
Lesley Barnett, Head of Pre-Prep

Year 1 and 2

Beginning their journeys towards academic achievement we are committed to motivating our Year 1 and 2 children to become broad and successful learners. We provide the opportunity to experience a very generous range of activities, stretching, challenging and inspiring children to discover their passions.

Our bespoke curriculum gives every child the opportunity to excel in a variety of areas of school life: curriculum work, behaviour, termly productions (yes, we do love a show at Barrow Hills) or by taking part in co-curricular activities. We build upon the skills developed in Early Years through a broad-based curriculum with grounding in literacy and numeracy, teaching a wealth of skills and knowledge. Teaching and learning opportunities promote active engagement, depth of learning and motivation are a key focus.

The children enjoy rich and exciting experiences including very popular ‘themed days’ which bring learning to life through immersive activities which include dressing up and connecting with characters, settings and feelings they may be exploring through their topics. Our children also enjoy regular trips, visits and lots of opportunities for hands-on investigation and problem solving.

They are busy and happy and buoyant in their growing confidence in learning and doing.

Forest School and Ecology in Pre-Prep

Co-curricular in Pre-Prep

Technology and AI in Pre-Prep

As Head of Science and STEM Innovation Lead, I believe passionately in promoting a holistic view of the STEM subjects, drawing links between each domain through curriculum content and the frequent inclusion of current topics of interest within mainstream media.

My greatest privilege working with the children at Barrow Hills is to be able to travel with them on their journey of discovery as, through investigation, exploration, and discussion, they begin to make sense of the world around them.
Thomas Behan, Head of Science and STEM innovation

Join us at an Open Morning

The best way to experience what life is like at Barrow Hills is to join us at an Open Morning. You will have the chance to talk to children and teachers about what makes our school such a magical place, and to ask any questions you have about life here.

Book an open morning

Join us to explore and experience everyday school life here at Barrow Hills

Personal visits usually last around 90-minutes including a meeting with our Head, Mr John Towers, and opportunities to meet the children and tour the beautiful school.

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