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In Lower School, we prioritise both academic excellence and personal growth. Our nurturing environment fosters not just knowledge but also character development.
Through engaging in discussions and expression of ideas, students gain confidence and form meaningful connections with peers, learning the importance of collaboration and empathy.
Our close-knit community ensures every child receives individual attention, cultivating a sense of belonging and respect for others. With a well-rounded curriculum and dedicated staff team, we empower students to thrive academically while instilling values of compassion and integrity.
In Lower School, we do not just educate minds; we cultivate kindness and character, preparing students not only for academic success but also for a fulfilling life enriched by empathy, understanding, and community.
In Lower School, we foster lifelong learning habits and provide excellent facilities for our students.
Our classrooms are dynamic and engaging environments, designed to inspire curiosity and growth. Led by their Form teachers, children receive personalised attention supplemented by expertise from our specialist teachers across various subjects.
We believe in experiential learning, which is why our Lower School curriculum includes educational day trips and a memorable residential trip in Year 4 enriching their academic journey with real-world experiences.
Furthermore, our Lower School students benefit from the support of dedicated teaching assistants who seamlessly integrate into classroom activities, ensuring every student receives the assistance they need to thrive.
We are committed to nurturing not only academic excellence but also the development of well-rounded individuals equipped with the skills and mindset for success in an ever-changing world.
While English and Maths are fundamental pillars, our educational approach extends far beyond. Our students engage with a rich tapestry of subjects including ICT, Science, History, Geography, TPR (Theology, Philosophy and Religion ), STEM, French, Art, Drama, Outdoor Learning, and Music.
We believe in nurturing well-rounded individuals. Reasoning is introduced in the Lower School’s Curriculum aiding their transition and entry to future schools. Additionally, in Year 4, Mathematics streaming is implemented to tailor learning experiences and unlock each child’s potential.
Our Exceptional Performers initiative celebrates students excelling across diverse domains, from academics to sports, computing, art, and music. For those with additional needs, our SEND team provides personalised support, fostering an inclusive environment.
In our Sports Department, we cultivate a passion for various sports through inclusive team participation and regular matches.
Homework assignments in Maths, English, and Reasoning ensure continuous reinforcement of learning throughout the Lower School, preparing students for academic success and fostering their holistic development.
We empower our students with the emotional tools they need to thrive academically, socially, and personally.
We promote emotional intelligence through our RULER approach. Combined with the York House Way, it fosters empathetic, emotionally astute students. From understanding their own emotions to empathising with others, our students develop a profound emotional literacy from an early age.
The cornerstone of our approach is self-awareness and regulation. By recognising and comprehending their emotions, students become adept at managing them, enhancing their resilience in various scenarios.
Our initiatives, such as ‘Calm Break’ and ‘Donkey Downtime’, provide essential avenues for emotional expression and support. During ‘Calm Break’, students can engage in quiet activities, promoting relaxation and introspection. Similarly, ‘Donkey Downtime’ offers a unique opportunity for students to unwind with gentle animal therapy while fostering open dialogue with teachers.
We understand the demands of busy schedules and the need for reliable child care beyond standard school hours.
Our extensive wrap-around care program supports families with flexible options, ensuring your child is safe, engaged, and well cared for from early morning until evening. This program is more than just supervision; it’s about creating a homely and supportive environment where your child can thrive outside regular school hours. Our dedicated staff are committed to making every moment enriching and enjoyable, giving you peace of mind and each child a fulfilling experience.
Our diverse co-curricular program, tailored each term to meet students’ needs, offers exciting opportunities to explore passions and develop skills such as sports, arts, science, and cultural clubs, fostering confidence, teamwork, and leadership. Participation enhances academic performance and holistic development. We encourage students to join as many clubs as they can to discover new interests. Wrap-around care includes breakfast clubs starting at 07:30, After School Club (ASC) until 18:00, and bookable ‘Tea’ for later pickups, ensuring continuous care for the children’s needs.
In our Lower School, we prioritise immersive outdoor learning experiences, enriching our students’ education beyond the confines of the classroom. Through a carefully crafted curriculum, children engage in outdoor activities, fostering their physical, cognitive, and social development. From structured lessons to scheduled outdoor sessions, every moment spent outdoors enhances their skills and resilience.
Starting from Year 3, our students eagerly anticipate the opportunity to participate in residential campouts within our school grounds, fostering independence and camaraderie in a safe and familiar environment.
Our extensive grounds with wooden climbing logs and play structures, provide the perfect backdrop for imaginative play and physical activity during break times. Equipped with outdoor play equipment, our students delight in active play, promoting health and well-being.
To ensure preparedness for all weather conditions, our students have access to their personal lockers and a dedicated footwear store in our boot room. This organisation fosters responsibility and ensures seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor activities.
