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Pre-Prep Curriculum

Abbot’s Hill is an amazing place to grow up. The school is made up of ‘stages’ that all feel slightly different to each other but are part of the same journey. Some children start in the on-site Nursery before they move up into the Pre-Prep when they’re three or four. Some join us for the first time in Pre-Prep. We want to make it as easy as possible for each and every family.

Every stage of our school is about two things; making the most of every day and carefully getting ready for what comes next. In Pre-Prep we’re exploring the world through play and we’re learning to love learning itself.

Reception

Abbot’s Hill Reception welcomes pupils from 4+. The Transition to school is a huge step for children and we work in partnership with parents to ensure a smooth transition to school.

Reception pupils follow the EYFS curriculum in a stimulating and inspiring environment, led by experienced and highly-qualified teachers.

Emphasis is placed on securing firm foundations in literacy and numeracy, and pupils continue to benefit from specialist teaching in French, Music, PE and Woodland School. Children are welcomed into the classroom and choose from our planned fine motor control activities. Adult-led lessons are taught in Phonics and Maths. Children then use and develop these skills during child initiated play.

The play in Reception takes many forms, sometimes led by an adult, sometimes led by the children, however it is always used to spot teachable moments and develop language skills.

Children leave Reception well prepared for Key Stage 1. They are equipped with advanced literacy and numeracy skills, with the majority achieving and exceeding the Early learning Goals.

Year 1 and 2

As the children move into Year 1, the transition from the play-based curriculum is gradual and carefully planned. Teachers and teaching assistants support the children in their learning, with each child being supported and challenged. Children are taught to persevere and take risks with their learning. These skills are vital for developing as an independent learner ready for the challenges of the curriculum.

In Years 1 and 2 a more structured approach to learning is introduced and developed. The curriculum is aligned with the whole of the Prep school. Further specialist teaching in Computing and Drama is introduced and the subjects begin to be taught gradually. Curriculum connections are made to embed learning and give context to concepts and knowledge. Skill development is highly valued and children continue with Woodland School sessions to provide an environment to foster team building, cooperation, perseverance, resilience and risk taking.

Children begin to participate in our co-curricular clubs, which enrich their experience at school and provide opportunities to try something new or gain a new skill.