INSPIRING YOUNG MINDS
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Our Pre-Prep learning approach combines dedicated teaching with innovative hands-on curriculum designed to spark imagination and build strong educational foundations for your child's future success.
Bespoke Curriculum & Core Skills
Every child is valued and encouraged to fulfill their learning potential through our exciting, fun relationship with learning. Our small class sizes ensure individual attention and nurturing from experienced staff.
Morning foundations: Literacy and numeracy are taught each morning, providing essential skills in reading, spelling, writing, and mathematics. We create 'hooks' to help children build comprehensive general knowledge networks.
Independent learning skills develop through our diverse curriculum including Science, Geography, History, RE/PSHE, Music, Art, Design Technology, ICT, and Performing Arts.
Outdoor Learning & Forest School
Pre-Prep takes full advantage of Denstone College's beautiful surroundings through regular outdoor learning experiences:
- Weekly Forest School sessions with 4 qualified Forest School teachers
- Outdoor classroom activities connecting children with nature
- Environmental discovery developing teamwork and perseverance
- Hands-on exploration of the natural world
Learning comes alive through our outdoor education approach, fostering lifelong skills and environmental awareness.
We aim to bring learning to life and deliver an inspiring curriculum using topic based learning each term.
Topic-Based Learning & Real Experiences
Inspiring curriculum delivery uses topic-based learning each term, enriched through:
- Visiting theatre workshops bringing stories to life
- Educational trips to space centres and interactive venues
- Themed learning days including "pirate adventures"
- Real-world connections that make learning memorable
Co Curricular
Over 30 after-school activities cater to every interest:
- Diverse clubs from fencing to Zumba, Police Cadets to Bug Club
- Something for everyone across all age groups
- Termly activity programmes emailed to parents
- Skill development in varied areas of interest
Sport
Sport plays a significant role in Pre-Prep life, teaching good sportsmanship and essential life lessons. Children enjoy:
- Weekly swimming in our 25m indoor heated pool
- Astroturf pitches and gymnasium access
- Specialist sports coaching in multiple disciplines
- Regular PE lessons with challenging, varied programmes
Seasonal sports focus:
- Michaelmas Term: Rugby and hockey
- Lent Term: Hockey and netball
- Summer Term: Cricket and tennis
LAMDA
London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA) examinations offered since the 1880s:
- Speaking verse and prose examinations each term
- Communication skills development and literature appreciation
- EYFS storytelling activities for youngest learners
- Graded public speaking examinations from Year One
- Lifelong skills in confidence and articulation
Music
Vibrant musical tradition with talented professional musicians:
- Pre-Prep piano lessons available from early years
- Violin instruction from Prep 3 onwards
- ABRSM examination preparation each term
- Music groups: String Group, Chapel Choir, Show Choir
- Interactive class lessons integrated into assemblies and performances
Building Confidence Through Events
Independence and self-confidence flourish through our busy calendar:
- Harvest and Easter concerts showcasing talents
- Chapel assemblies building community spirit
- Nativity plays celebrating creativity
- Grandparents' days strengthening family connections
- Sports days celebrating achievement and participation
Why Choose Pre-Prep Learning at Denstone?
- Experienced, dedicated staff passionate about early years education
- Small class sizes ensuring individual attention
- Hands-on curriculum making learning exciting and memorable
- Outstanding facilities including sports amenities and outdoor spaces
- Holistic development combining academics, arts, and physical education
Ready to discover how our innovative Pre-Prep learning approach can inspire your child? Contact our admissions team to arrange a visit and see our engaging curriculum in action.
