Academic

Every moment in the Pre Prep at Abbot’s Hill — whether in the classroom or beyond it — is purposefully shaped to lay the strongest possible foundations for the years ahead.  Our key aim is to make learning joyful and fun for our Pre-Prep pupils, an exciting adventure of discovery for all to enjoy, and
staff love nothing more than watching young minds light up with curiosity — and we nurture that love of learning right from the very beginning.

In Pre-Prep, children learn best through play, exploration and getting hands-on with the world around them. We follow their lead, gently introducing new ideas and concepts when the time feels just right. This playful, child-centred approach helps our little ones think creatively, ask great questions, and start making exciting connections in their learning.

Our curriculum is rooted in the EYFS and Key Stage 1 National Curriculum, but shaped by our talented teachers to create a truly personal learning experience for every child. We believe in ‘stage, not age’ — meaning we take the time to understand exactly where each child is in their journey, supporting, stretching and supporting them in all the right ways.

Academic achievement matters deeply to us — but so does joy. We believe that children learn best when they are happy, and we work hard to ensure that curiosity and laughter are never in short supply. Your child will be genuinely known here: seen, supported, and valued by talented teachers who care about them as individuals, not just as learners.

Along the way, they will build lasting friendships, grow in confidence, and develop the character and skills that will serve them throughout their education and beyond.

In Reception, learning begins with the child. We follow each pupil’s natural curiosity and interests, creating a rich environment — indoors and outdoors — where children are free to explore, make choices, and express their understanding of the world in wonderfully creative ways. Through writing, counting, imagining, role play, and construction, they begin to make sense of the world around them with confidence and delight. Familiar stories spark imagination and provide a natural thread that weaves learning together in ways that feel magical at this age.

As pupils move into Years 1 and 2, their learning takes on a gentle new shape. Carefully chosen topics begin to draw different subjects together, helping children to make meaningful connections across their learning and building the foundations of a truly joined-up education.

Our curriculum is vibrant, creative and carefully designed to capture the imagination of five and six year olds. Lessons are rich with colour, movement, stories and hands-on discovery — because we know that children this age learn best when they’re engaged, energised and enjoying themselves. We strike a thoughtful balance between structure and play, giving children the firm foundations they need while keeping that wonderful natural curiosity alive and burning brightly.

We champion the courage to have a go. In our classrooms, every effort is celebrated, there’s no such thing as a silly question, and children are gently encouraged to try new things, take small risks and grow in confidence every day. We take time to understand each child’s personality and learning style, making sure every pupil feels valued for exactly who they are.

All Pre-Prep children are taught Music, French, PE, Games and Swimming by specialist teachers from the Prep and Senior sections of the school.