Academic Overview
Lower Prep
Our Lower Prep encompasses Years 3, 4 and 5. It is an important bridge that enables pupils to build confidently on the strong foundations established in the Pre-Prep years, with opportunities for greater independence. Whilst maintaining the supportive structure that underpins successful learning, pupils embark on academic studies that further enrich their knowledge and understanding of the world around them.
The academic programme within Lower Prep broadens as pupils are encouraged to take increasing ownership of their learning through our bespoke Exploration Curriculum [Link to Exploration Curriculum page]. Regularly assigned homework, extended project work and a strong culture of independent reading cultivate disciplined study habits, intellectual curiosity and the capacity for sustained, thoughtful enquiry. Technology is thoughtfully integrated into teaching and learning with pupils assigned their own iPads to facilitate research opportunities, collaboration and creative work across subjects.
Specialist teaching continues to form an important part of the Lower Prep timetable. Our pupils benefit from expert subject staff and designated teaching spaces for Music, Art, Design and Technology, Sport and French. Pupils also begin their studies into German as a second language, further broadening their linguistic and cultural awareness. All pupils learn to play an instrument as part of our strings programme, developing musical confidence and technical skill, and are given regular opportunities to perform on stage at a variety of events throughout the school year. Sports fixtures form a central part of our sporting provision, with pupils in Lower Prep representing the school in our youngest competitive teams and participating in fixtures against other schools across Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire and Essex. Together, these co-curricular opportunities provide Lower Prep pupils with a broad, stimulating curriculum that nurtures their creativity, musical and linguistic skills and physical development.
Curricular enrichment plays an important role within the Lower Prep experience. Termly STEAM Days provide opportunities for pupils to engage in collegial, cross-curricular projects that combine science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics, fostering creativity, problem-solving and innovation. Register your interest [here] for your child to join our next STEAM Day event, open to prospective pupils in Years 3-5.
Pupils currently in Year 2, and those looking to join in Year 3, have the opportunity to apply for an Academic scholarship. Click [here] for more information.
Upper Prep
In Upper Prep, pupils’ horizons are broadened through an increasingly academically rigorous curriculum, designed to develop intellectual independence, critical thinking and strong study habits.
Year 6 marks an important stage within the Prep journey. While pupils remain based within the Prep building, they begin to experience a gradual transition towards the wider school environment. Lessons expand on the use of the school’s specialist facilities to include the Design and Technology workshop, Drama Studio and Science labs, allowing pupils to benefit from expert teaching and the full provision of our purpose-built learning spaces. They conclude their pathway along our bespoke Exploration Curriculum [link to Exploration Curriculum page], ready to embark on their studies within discretely taught subjects.
As pupils progress into Years 7 and 8, they move more fully into the rhythms of main school life. Pupils gain the independence to move between lessons and activities across the school site, developing organisational skills, personal responsibility and confidence within a larger academic environment. The curriculum continues to be delivered by specialist subject teachers, ensuring depth of knowledge and a high level of academic challenge across disciplines.
Small class sizes remain a defining feature of the Upper Prep Department, allowing for highly individualised teaching and close academic guidance, while still providing a dynamic learning environment in which pupils benefit from collaboration, discussion and the exchange of ideas.
The co-curricular programme in Upper Prep is fully inclusive, offering pupils a broad range of opportunities to pursue interests and develop new skills beyond the classroom. Activities include sports clubs, book club, cookery, gardening, art clubs and music groups, alongside opportunities to contribute to the Rewilding and Eco Council, supporting the school’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
To support pupils’ growing academic independence, Homework Club is available each day until 5.30pm, providing a structured environment in which pupils can complete their assigned homework and develop effective study habits with full use of school devices, the library and teacher supervision.
Pupils currently in Year 6, and those looking to join in Year 7, have the opportunity to apply for one or more of our 11+ Scholarship opportunities. Click here for more information.