Parkside Pre Prep is for boys and girls aged 4 -7. In this nurturing, child-centred environment, our aim is for all of the children to reach their full potential across the curriculum so that they are ready to move into the Prep School as independent, resilient, happy and confident learners.

With small classes and a high level of focused teaching involvement, supported by a teaching assistant, pupils benefit from this emphasis and supportive attention, ensuring their progress across the curriculum.

The children are taught creatively with hands-on practical experiences to ignite their passion for learning, develop curiosity and experience the joy of risk-taking. ‘Real-life’ learning is thoroughly enjoyable, engaging and promotes discursive learning.

They begin their Pre Prep journey in Reception, the final year of EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage), and then move on to Years 1 and 2. The curriculum is broad and balanced with an emphasis on English and Maths every morning. The pupils receive daily phonics (following the 'Little Wandle' Scheme), reading and mental arithmetic; thus ensuring they attain a high level of Numeracy and Literacy skills as they move into the Prep School. In all year groups, the children benefit from specialist teaching in French, forest school, swimming, sport, gym, computing, drama, music and art; all with the advantage of using the many school facilities and grounds at Parkside.

A range of after school clubs are available daily until 4pm, followed by an opportunity to attend aftercare until 6pm if required.

Example timetables

Extracurricular ClubsAll Pre Prep pupils have the opportunity to develop their skills in the performing arts, showcasing their talents in the Christmas productions and church services for the Nativity, Carol Service and Mothering Sunday Service. They have regular opportunities to develop their confidence speaking in front of an audience during the 'Star of the Week' assemblies and other celebrations throughout the year. 

In sport lessons, all pupils experience a wide range of team and individual sports and they also have a weekly swimming and gym lessons, taught by our specialist teachers and sports coaches.

Parkside Sport

The transition to the Prep School is seamless as preparations start in the summer term of Year 2. Pupils are allocated a buddy from Year 7 who will guide them in Year 3 and build a supportive relationship built on trust and confidence. A highly successful part of this transition process is dedicated time spent in the Prep School in their new classroom environment ready for September when they join Year 3. This allows the children to become familiar with routines, staff and the Prep School environment before the summer holidays, so that they return without those niggling fears and worries that can often set some children back.

Pre Prep Core Learning Crew

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