Welcome
Welcome to the AESG Prep School, where I am honoured to lead a community dedicated to fostering the growth and development of our young learners.
In the Prep School, we take immense pride in nurturing the minds and spirits of our girls, providing a foundation that not only prepares them for future academic endeavours but also shapes them into well-rounded individuals Our commitment to excellence is reflected in every aspect of our curriculum and every corner of our classrooms, as we strive to create an environment that is both challenging and supportive, where each girl is encouraged to reach her full potential.
Our motto, "Aspire to Be More," encapsulates the essence of what we do in the Prep School at AESG We believe in cultivating a love for learning, instilling a sense of curiosity, and fostering an environment where aspirations can flourish. From rigorous academic programs to enriching extracurricular activities, we ensure that every pupil is given the opportunity to explore their interests, develop their talents, and grow in confidence. In the Prep School, we are dedicated to inspiring each child to aspire beyond their current achievements, nurturing their unique abilities, and guiding them towards becoming compassionate, confident, and capable individuals
- Miss Scott, Head of Prep School
School Day
8am
Playground gate open. Girls are welcome to be dropped off in the playground and there will be a member of staff on duty. Parents are welcome to stay in the playground until their daughters go into school.
8.20am
The bell will be rung and girls line up in forms to go into school.
8.35am
Gates are shut. Any late girls are to go through to the Prep reception where they will sign in and be taken to class. They will be given a late mark.
8.40am Assembly or Phonics (Pre-Prep)
9am Period 1
9.55am - 10.50am Period 2
10.50am - 11.10am Morning Break
11.10am - 12.05pm Period 3
12.05pm - 1.05pm LUNCH
1.05pm - 2pm Period 4
2pm - 2.55pm Period 5
2.55pm - 3.15/3.30pm
Period 6
3.15pm Nursery to Year 2 finish.
3.30pm Year 3 - 6 finish.
End of Day arrangements
Teachers will take Reception to the playground where parents can pick up Years 1-6 will be taken to the Turning Circle.
Sisters Club
If girls in The Prep have older sisters in the Senior School they can go to ‘Sisters Club’ which is held in the Garden Room next to The Hub in the Prep School free of charge for 15 minutes until their older sister comes to collect them. The older sister can then take their younger sister to meet their parents as arranged.
Houses
Girls will be put into one of four houses: St Hilary, St Francis, St Emilie or St Joan. Each house has a colour:
St Joan
St Hilary
St Emilie
St Francis
Travelling to and from School
Safety of our community
Parents can drop their daughters off and pick them up via the turning circle In the turning circle we operate a one way system to keep the flow of traffic moving. There will be members of staff on duty each morning to welcome girls. Parents do not need to get out of their cars, unless you wish to drop your daughter directly on the playground
Bicycles and scooters
If girls are travelling to school by either, they can be left in the bus shelter.
Dogs
Dogs are not permitted to enter the school grounds. You may tie dogs up to the railing as long as they do not bark. This can be disturbing for different sections of the school that operate on different timings
Collection of girls
If a girl is to be collected by someone different or is going home with another family, parents must contact the Prep School Secretary to let them know
Late Collection
If girls are late to be picked up, they will be taken to Fun at The Edge, our after school club.
Year 6 travel to and from school
Year 6 may walk to and from school if parents have given written consent.
School Bus
Girls may use the school bus services. Details of how to pay and to book a space can be done so by contacting Mrs Watson on twatson@aesg.co.uk
During the Day
Break and Play times
Weather permitting, all girls will spend their breaks in either the top playground or bottom playground The playgrounds will be supervised by staff. In the event of wet weather, the girls will play indoors with suitable activities.
Snacks
A fresh, healthy morning snack is provided by our caterers Thomas Franks. There will be toast for Nursery to Y2. In the afternoon, Nursery to Year 2 have fruit. If your daughter has an after school club she is welcome to bring a snack
School Lunches
A hot school lunch is provided for and is inclusive of fees. Lunch is freshly prepared on site by our team of chefs and cooks The school caters for all allergies and all religious requests such as Halal.
When girls join the school, parents are required to notify the school of any allergies.
Dietary Requirements and allergies
If there are any changes to a girl’s dietary requirements or allergies, parents must inform the school nurse Mrs Claire Clark on cclark@aesg.co.uk.
Before and after school care
The school offers both a before school club and an after school club for all pupils aged 2-11.
Before School Club
Parents can be assured of a warm welcome from 7:30am as girls in the Prep School can join us for our FREE before school club, Mornings@TheEdge.
Fun at The Edge (FATE)
Our after school club, ‘Fun@TheEdge’, is open to all girls from 2 to 11 years until 5.45pm. Our staff ensure the continuation of the excellent care the girls already receive during the school day in a fun, safe and happy environment.
Our aim is to provide a relaxed atmosphere for the girls to enjoy after a busy day at school. They are welcomed with a variety of table top activities and once everyone has arrived, the girls visit ‘The Hub’ restaurant for a healthy snack and drink provided by our caterers, Thomas Franks.
The rest of the afternoon is spent enjoying a range of activities such as: arts and crafts, board games, sewing and outside games (weather permitting). Older girls will be given the opportunity to do homework should they wish to, or just relax in the quiet area
Costs
Until 4.40pm
First child - £9
Second child - £7 75
Until 5 45pm
First child - £12
Second child - £10
Clubs, Music Lessons and LAMDA
School Clubs
At the Prep School, we offer a wide range of exciting after-school clubs designed to enrich your child’s learning experience and help them develop new skills and interests.
From sports and drama to arts and science clubs, there’s something for every pupil to enjoy. To sign up for any of these clubs, simply log into My School Portal, where you’ll find a list of available clubs along with session details and timings
Registration is quick and easy, and you can also make secure online payments through the portal. If you have any questions or need assistance with the sign-up process, please don’t hesitate to contact us
A club timetable will be circulated via the BeMoreBulletin at the beginning of every term.
LAMDA
The London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts (LAMDA) lessons are available for pupils in Year 1 and above and are taught in groups. Pupils work towards exams in both acting and poetry. If you would like your daughter to participate in LAMDA there is a form in the admissions portal to complete.
Music Lessons
At AESG, we believe that music education is an essential part of a well-rounded curriculum. It nurtures creativity, develops discipline, and enhances cognitive skills, all while providing an outlet for selfexpression and joy
Overview of Music Lessons
Our music lessons are available to students of all ages and skill levels. We offer both individual and group lessons across a wide variety of instruments and voice These lessons provide personalised instruction, focusing on technical skills, music theory, and performance techniques, while also encouraging creativity and musical exploration.
We offer lessons for most instruments including singing.
Lesson Formats
1
Individual Lessons: These one-on-one sessions are tailored to your child's individual needs and goals, ensuring focused attention on technique and skill development.
2.
Ensemble Participation: Students may have the opportunity to join school ensembles or choirs, where they can apply their skills in a group setting and build teamwork and performance skills.
Scheduling and Fees
Scheduling: Music lessons are scheduled during school hours or after-school hours to minimise disruption to your child's academic studies.
Fees: Lessons are typically offered on a termly basis. Fees depend on the instrument, lesson format (individual or group), and lesson duration. If you would like your daughter to to have music lessons there is a form in the admissions portal to complete.
Technology
At AESG Prep School, we recognise the vital role technology plays in enhancing education and preparing our pupils for a digital future We are proud to be an Apple Distinguished School, a distinction granted to schools that demonstrate innovation, leadership, and educational excellence through the use of technology.
This designation reflects our commitment to providing pupils with the best tools for learning and ensuring they are well-equipped for the demands of the 21st century.
Integrating Technology into Learning
Technology is integrated into our curriculum to create dynamic, engaging, and personalised learning experiences. Through the use of iPads and other digital tools, pupils have access to a wealth of resources that complement their traditional learning, allowing them to collaborate, explore, and develop their skills in new and exciting ways.
iPads in the Classroom
At AESG, we utilise iPads across various subjects to enhance pupil engagement and support individualised learning. Each pupil has access to an iPad, which they use to:
Access digital textbooks and resources: iPads allow pupils to interact with up-to-date learning materials, explore multimedia content, and complete assignments.
Collaborate with peers: Pupils can easily collaborate on projects, share documents, and communicate with teachers and classmates in real-time
Develop digital skills: Through the use of apps and educational software, pupils build valuable skills in problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking.
Digital Citizenship
While we embrace the use of technology in the classroom, we also emphasise the importance of being responsible digital citizens.
We encourage students to:
Use technology respectfully: Pupils are taught to use digital tools responsibly, with respect for others and a focus on learning.
Follow online safety protocols: We educate pupils on the importance of privacy, protecting personal information, and behaving appropriately online Balance screen time: We encourage girls to maintain a healthy balance between screen time and other activities, promoting physical activity and social interaction.
Mobile Phones
Girls in The Prep are not permitted to have a mobile phone in school unless they travel via the bus or walk in Year 6 or Year 6. Phones must then be handed into the class teacher and will be returned at the end of the day.
#BeMore
At Alderley Edge School for Girls, we believe in the potential of every girl to thrive and achieve her best. Our ethos is built around the idea of empowering girls to “BeMore” to not only excel academically, but to develop the skills, character, and mindset that will enable them to succeed in every aspect of their lives.
In today’s world, success is not defined by technical knowledge alone Educators and employers agree that certain “soft skills” play a pivotal role in shaping an individual’s journey to success, whether in school, the workplace, or beyond.
These skills, often called emotional intelligence or personal attributes, are essential in cultivating confident, adaptable, and driven individuals. At Alderley Edge School for Girls, we have created a framework of eight key attributes that we believe every pupil should develop to set her on the path to a bright and fulfilling future.
Real-Life Opportunities to Develop #BeMore
We believe that developing these attributes is just as important as mastering academic subjects. That’s why we offer a wealth of real-life opportunities for our pupils to grow and flourish in all eight areas. From leadership roles to creative projects, collaborative group work to exciting competitions, our pupils are given ample opportunities to practice, refine, and strengthen their #BeMore attributes.
Our Eight #BeMore Attributes
The eight attributes that form the foundation of our #BeMore programme are:
Responsible
Understanding the importance of accountability and taking ownership of one ’ s actions, choices, and impact on others and the world.
Resilient
Developing the ability to bounce back from setbacks, embrace challenges, and maintain a positive attitude in the face of adversity.
Reflective
Cultivating the habit of self-reflection, encouraging critical thinking, and constantly seeking ways to improve both personally and academically
Resourceful
Becoming adept at using available resources creatively, solving problems efficiently, and finding innovative solutions to challenges.
Collaborative
Building the ability to work effectively in teams, appreciate diverse perspectives, and contribute positively to group dynamics and outcomes
Curious
Nurturing a passion for learning, asking questions, and developing a mindset that embraces discovery and continuous growth.
Creative
Encouraging the ability to think outside the box, embrace creativity, and use imagination to overcome obstacles and find new opportunities.
Communicative
Developing strong communication skills, both verbal and non-verbal, to express ideas clearly, listen actively, and engage with others in meaningful ways. These eight attributes are not just theoretical concepts They are embedded in every aspect of school life at Alderley Edge, helping pupils to cultivate essential life skills while pursuing academic success
School Life
At AESG Prep School, we believe in empowering our pupils to take on leadership roles, contribute to the school community, and develop valuable skills that will benefit them for years to come.
There are a variety of opportunities for girls to get involved in school life, enabling them to make a positive impact and grow as individuals By participating in these programs, girls can become role models, promote positive change, and help foster a caring and supportive environment at AESG.
Digital Leader
As technology plays an important role in our school, being a Digital Leader offers an exciting opportunity for girls passionate about tech to take on a leadership role. Digital Leaders help promote responsible and creative use of technology, assist classmates with using devices and educational apps, and share their knowledge of digital tools with others This role helps build leadership skills while encouraging digital responsibility, creativity, and collaboration.
School Council
The School Council provides girls with the chance to represent their peers and have a voice in the decisions that shape their school experience. Elected members of the School Council work closely with staff and leadership teams to address student concerns, organise school-wide initiatives, and plan events that benefit the entire school community This role is ideal for girls who want to learn more about leadership, teamwork, and how to make a real difference in school life.
Diana Award Anti-Bullying Ambassador
The Diana Award Anti-Bullying Ambassador program offers girls the opportunity to become ambassadors for kindness and inclusion. Anti-Bullying Ambassadors are trained to promote a positive school culture, identify and prevent bullying, and offer support to those in need. By becoming an ambassador, girls help raise awareness about bullying, provide peer support, and create a safe, respectful environment where everyone feels accepted. This is an important role that encourages leadership, resilience, and a commitment to making the school a better place for all students
Eco Angels
For girls passionate about the environment, the Eco Team is a fantastic way to get involved. Members of the Eco Team work to raise awareness about sustainability, lead initiatives to reduce waste, and promote eco-friendly practices throughout the school. They may help organise events such as recycling drives, planting trees, or encouraging the use of sustainable resources This role allows girls to make a tangible impact on the environment while developing teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Behaviour
At AESG Prep School, we are committed to creating a positive, respectful environment where all pupils can thrive. Our behaviour expectations aim to encourage respect, responsibility, and a positive attitude toward learning and relationships.
Respect for Others
Pupils are expected to treat everyone with kindness and courtesy, including classmates, teachers, and staff. They should listen attentively, celebrate differences, and show empathy for others.
Responsibility for Learning
Pupils should take ownership of their learning by arriving prepared, participating actively, completing work on time, and setting personal academic goals.
Respect for School Property
Pupils must care for school property, such as books, equipment, and the school environment, and be considerate of shared spaces.
Positive Attitude and Behaviour
Pupils should approach school with a positive mindset, demonstrate resilience, and be honest in their actions. Politeness, good manners, and a friendly attitude are expected at all times.
Courtesy and Consideration
Pupils should speak politely, be considerate of others, and offer help when needed. They should encourage classmates and create a positive atmosphere.
Being Safe and Responsible
Safety is a priority, and pupils must follow school rules, move responsibly around the school, and report any concerns to a trusted adult.
Participation in School Activities
Pupils are encouraged to participate in co-curricular activities, work as a team, and support school events.
Maintaining Good Behaviour and Self-Control
Pupils should respect authority, manage emotions, and resolve conflicts peacefully. They must respect personal space and demonstrate good behaviour.
Promoting a Positive School Community
Pupils should promote inclusivity, look out for others, and set an example through positive behaviour
Consequences for Misbehaviour
If behaviour doesn’t meet expectations, appropriate consequences will be applied, with opportunities for reflection and improvement.
By following these expectations, pupils contribute to a supportive and respectful environment, helping them grow both academically and personally We trust our pupils will embrace these values and contribute positively to our school community.
Communication
Should you have any queries or concerns your first port of call should be your daughter’s class teacher Teacher emails can be found later in this handbook.
#BeMore Bulletin
Every Friday, you will be emailed our school newsletter the #BeMore Bulletin This will include any trips or notices relevant to your daughter. There is a section for Prep and Seniors, and one for information relevant to the school.
My School Portal (MSP)
When you join, you will be given a login for My School Portal. MSP is a key tool for keeping parents informed and engaged in their child’s educational journey.
In the portal you can book and pay for trips, see your daughters school report, request leave of absence and notify the school if your daughter is ill.
Parents’ Evenings
Parents’ Evenings are an opportunity to discuss the academic progress of your daughter. It is also a time to discuss their happiness and wellbeing and how they are enjoying school.
Parent Forum
Each term, there is a parent forum either virtual or in person which covers a different topic of interest to parents. It could be curriculum based, IT or pastoral. Details are added to the #BeMoreBulletin
Seesaw
For some learning and homework, the school uses Seesaw, a user-friendly app that allows parents to stay connected to their child's learning journey. Through Seesaw, parents can view photos, updates, class activities, and student work in real time, giving them insight into what their child is learning and how they are progressing. It also allows for direct communication with teachers, making it easy to stay informed and involved in their child’s education
Nut Free School
There are a number of children with an anaphylactic allergy to nuts and therefore AESG is a no nut school.
School Nurse
The school nurse plays a vital role in ensuring the health and wellbeing of students at AESG Prep School. She is responsible for providing first aid in case of illness or injury, managing ongoing medical conditions, and offering health advice to both pupils and staff.
The nurse also works closely with parents to support children’s health needs, administers medications as needed, and helps create a safe and healthy environment for learning.
Additionally, the school nurse may provide health education, promote good hygiene practices, and help with any concerns regarding the physical or mental wellbeing of students.
Medicines
Only essential medicines should be brought into school and these should be handed into form teachers at the start of the day. If a child requires medicine during the school day this will be administered by the Prep School secretary. All medication must be clearly labelled with the child’s name in the origional container
Reporting Absence and Illness
Illnesses will need to be reported by MSP by 8am. If your daughter has been sick, a request form must be completed, then she will need to stay off school for 48 hours.
If a pupil becomes unwell during the school day, she will be taken to the School Secretary’s office and collection will be arranged with the parents
Trips & Enrichment
Trips
Throughout the Prep School, trips and visits are arranged. They start off with day trips for Nursery to Year 2 and then in Years 3 to 6, the girls will have an annual residential trip. In previous years, this has been to places such as York and London for city breaks and to Wales and Derbyshire for outward bounds trips.
Trips are booked and paid for via My School Portal.
Swimming
The girls swim from Year 3 and have a lesson per week for one term each academic year There is no additional cost for swimming and lessons are taught at Wilmslow Leisure Centre.
Enrichment
There are over 40 extra-curricular clubs, which take place every week. Each term, a new list will be sent through the #BeMore Bulletin Clubs can be signed up for through My School Portal, including paying for any clubs.
Clubs include:
Gymnastics
Hockey
Crafty Creations
Music Tech
Vex Robotics
Echo Performing Arts Club
Prep Choir
Science Stars
Vocal Skills
Chess Club
Football
Computing Skills
Skateboarding
Football... to mention a few!
Uniform
Our uniform is available to purchase from Monkhouse in Cheadle Hulme and also from our Pre-Loved Uniform shop which is onsite. The Pre-Loved shop will be open on Wednesday afternoons from 1pm – 4.30pm or alternatively place your order online by using the order form on our website or contact preloveduniform@aesg.co.uk.
Nursery & Pre-School
Unform
AESG Sweatshirt
AESG Polo shirt
Navy Skort
Navy Apron (lunch)
Small Rucksack
Reception to Y2
Winter
AESG Shirt
Tunic
Blazer
House tie (elastic)
AESG Coat
Navy Felt Hat
Book bag
Prep Sports Bag
Navy tights
PE Kit
AESG White t-shirt
PE Shorts
Navy Joggers
Optional Items
AESG woolly hat
Sun hat
Summer Blazer
Summer dress
Straw Boater
White ankle socks
Navy ankle socks
AESG Splash jacket
PE Kit
AESG polo shirt
Skort
Base layers
Tracksuit bottoms
Optional
School scrunchies
School scarf
Year 3 to 6
Winter
AESG Shirt
Skirt (pleated)
Blazer
House tie (elastic)
AESG Coat
Navy Felt Hat
Book bag
Prep Sports Bag
Navy tights
Summer Blazer
Summer dress
Straw Boater
White ankle socks
Navy ankle socks
AESG Splash jacket
PE Kit
AESG polo shirt
Skort
Base layers
Tracksuit bottoms
Hockey Socks
Mouth Guard
Shin pads
AESG Swim suit
AESG Swim hat
Optional
School scrunchies
Forest School
At Alderley Edge School for Girls we believe that learning extends beyond the classroom walls. Our new full accredited Forest School program offers pupils a unique opportunity to explore, learn, and grow in a natural outdoor setting. This immersive experience fosters a deep connection with nature, encouraging creativity, independence, and resilience. There is one afternoon of Forest School every other week from Reception to Year 6
Forest School Activities
Den Building
Marshmallow Toasting
Zip Line
Using tools, sawing wood climbing trees
Forest School Uniform
Inevitably, the girls may get wet and muddy during their time in Forest School. And at AESG we say, “there is never bad weather but bad clothing!”
Therefore on a Forest School day, please can the girls bring the following:
AESG Waterproof coast
Navy waterproof trousers
hats and gloves (for cold weather)
Wellington boots
Sit mat to sit on
Jumper / player layer for under the coat
SENIOR LEADERSHIP TEAM
Mrs Wood Headmistress
Miss Scott Head of Prep
Miss McConville Deputy Head (Pastoral)
Mrs Evans Deputy Head (Academic)
Ms Pinder Head of Sixth Form
Mrs Rigby Director of Finance and Operations
Mrs Talbot Director of Marketing and Admissions
Early Years
Mrs Bathurst Head of Early Years & Reception Teacher sbathurst@aesg co uk
Mrs Barber Nursery and Pre-School Manager abarber@aesg.co.uk
Mrs Yates
Mrs Harrell
Mrs Wood
Year 1 & Year 2
Mrs Baxter cbaxter@aesg.co.uk
Year 3
Mrs Davison & Mrs Williams ddavison@aesg.co.uk fwilliams@aesg.co.uk
Year 4
Mrs Sherville-Payne kshervillepayne@aesg.co.uk
Year 5
Ms Ward rward@aesg.co.uk
Year 6
Mr Meakin jmeakin@aesg co uk
Learning Support
Mrs Beecham hbeecham@aesg.co.uk
School Secretary
Mrs White jwhite@aesg.co.uk
Specialist Teachers
Drama & Dance
Mrs Sanderson and Mrs Heighway
Computing Reception to Year 2 - Ms Ward
Year 3 to Year 5 Mr Leeson
Year 6 Mr Leeson and Mrs Gardner
Physical Education
Miss Cattell
Miss O’Gorman
Miss Stubbs
MFL
Mrs Valois
Mrs Janvier
Mrs Padwick-Graham
Year 4 & 6 Senior English Lessons
Mrs Gadsby
Year 6 Senior School Maths
Mrs Ramadan
Forest School
Mrs Bennet
Music
Mrs Daly
