Children join us in Reception from a wide range of local nurseries. The boys enter one of two Reception classes, with a maximum class size of 20 children. Oakway, our dedicated Reception building, has bright, stimulating and spacious classrooms, all of which are linked to our inspiring Outdoor Learning Area to allow free flow. Each class benefits from a fully-qualified teacher as well as its own experienced teaching assistant.
From its earliest stages in Reception, our curriculum aims to foster a life-long love of learning and curiosity in our boys. They enjoy a broad and varied programme of study, with topics that typically inspire boys, such as dinosaurs and bears. These lessons involve both practical and play-based learning.
We have daily Maths and Literacy lessons, and all teachers are specifically trained in Read Write Inc. Phonics, which teaches children to read accurately and fluently with good comprehension. This system also helps our boys to form each letter, spell correctly and compose their ideas step by step. Our Maths curriculum is based on the Power Maths scheme, which focuses around a child‑centred lesson design that models and embeds a growth mindset approach to Maths, helping all children build a deep understanding of Maths concepts, while sparking curiosity and excitement and nurturing confidence in Maths.
Specialist taught subjects, such as Games, PE, Outdoor Learning, French and Music are spread throughout the week and complement the core learning that takes place in the classroom.