Ashville Prep School brochure 2023-2024

2023-2024

WE ARE ASHVILLE

It is an exciting time to be part of Ashville Prep School, a thriving learning environment for pupils aged 5 to 11 years.

Alongside the set curriculum and a traditional classroom provision, we offer experiential learning, an outstanding range of co-curricular activities, and a strong focus on outdoor learning. Being outdoors is so important for a child’s physical and mental wellbeing in this post-Covid age, and our activities aim to develop our pupils’ imagination and enhance their

Prep has a ‘just right’ philosophy and size, which isn’t too big and overwhelming for our pupils, but equally not so small that it lacks variety and stimulation. The education it provides builds on children’s natural intellectual curiosity so they are excited by the gradual introduction to academic work children of this age experience.

We aim to encourage our pupils to love learning for its own sake and maintain that willingness to learn from experience, which characterises those who succeed in life.

Mrs Rhiannon Wilkinson MA (Oxon) MEd Head of Ashville College

CARING WE ARE

MEET THE HEAD

As you enter Ashville Prep School you will begin to experience the sense of community that we are very proud of – pupils and staff working together to create outstanding opportunities for learning.

Pupils are well prepared for every point of their transition through the school, not just academically but also socially and morally. Our emphasis on positivity, mutual respect and kindness pervades the school, making it an exciting and vibrant place to learn and make connections.

The passion and determination that the pupils and staff display enable us not only to provide a high level of academic expectations and success, but also to focus on the broader curriculum such as Art, Music, Drama and Sport. This supports every child to succeed and find their particular interest and talent, which we can then nurture through their Ashville journey.

We are extremely ambitious for our pupils at Ashville Prep School and are keen for them to feel confident to express themselves however they should wish, to challenge themselves through the different opportunities and experiences on offer and, most importantly, to enjoy their time at school.

I look forward to welcoming you to the school and meeting you in person.

Mr Phil Soutar Head of Ashville Prep School

I was a bit nervous coming to a new school, but I quickly settled into Ashville life. Everyone was just so welcoming. Ella, Year 6 “

WE ARE

CURIOUS LOVE LEARNING

Every Prep School pupil is encouraged to be the best they can be, take pride in themselves and their work, and develop a passion for learning that will stay with them throughout their Ashville journey and beyond.

Our pupils enjoy busy school days full of challenge, opportunity and fun. The passion and determination displayed by pupils and staff in Prep School enable us not only to provide a high level of academic expectations and success, but also to focus on the broader curriculum.

Pupils are taught in small class sizes which means that every child has their individual needs met, whether that be with challenge or support. A full range of subjects is taught, largely by the Form Teacher. In addition, we have superb specialist facilities and teachers who lead the pupils in Sport, Music, Art, Drama and Modern Foreign Languages, starting with the very youngest.

We have our own modern ICT suite and use iPads in the classroom to reinforce creative

learning strategies. Pupils in Year 5 and 6 are equipped with individual school managed iPads, enabling us to merge traditional teaching methods with digital technologies.

All pupils through the Prep School take part in Outdoor Learning sessions, which enhance the curriculum still further.

We ensure that whilst we strive for the very highest academic achievements, we do not lose sight of the broader curriculum, which creates the balanced education that Ashville prides itself upon.

We take a fun, holistic approach to learning, and embrace any opportunities, inside and outside the classroom, that instil a sense of enjoyment, encourage curiosity and confidence, and are useful for the future.

GET OUTSIDE

Outdoor Learning is a fundamental component of the Prep School curriculum. Recognising the immense benefits of nature-based education, this innovative approach creates an enriching environment where pupils can learn core and foundation subjects while fostering a deep connection with the outdoors.

Weekly lessons for all year groups are led by our Outdoor Learning specialist teacher, Mr Oldham, who works closely with Class Teachers to design engaging outdoor activities, leverage natural surroundings, and harness the immense potential of experiential learning.

We believe that engaging with nature not only enhances academic achievement, but also promotes physical and mental well-being. Through regular exposure to the outdoors, our pupils develop a sense of wonder, curiosity, and environmental stewardship, nurturing a lifelong passion for being in nature. Learning outside of the classroom supports the development of key transferable attributes including confidence, social skills, communication, motivation, teamwork and physical skills, enabling pupils to be successful during and beyond their time at school.

RECOGNISED WE ARE

EXPERIENCE GROWTH

At Ashville, every pupil is given a chance to shine in their own way and in the areas that excite them most.

Pupil achievements are celebrated here, from individual milestones and acts of kindness to exceptional academic or co-curricular success.

We are extremely ambitious for our pupils, and this is reflected in every aspect of school life. We work hard to make the Prep School an inclusive and encouraging place for each child to find their particular interest, talent or strength, and to experience that first taste of success, whatever that looks like for them.

Our individualised approach means that we can provide enrichment opportunities to challenge those pupils who excel, and also support those who are developing through the work of our exceptional Learning Support team.

We celebrate pupil achievements in many ways, not just for their outstanding academic work and effort, but also for their personal development and relationships with others.

We believe that getting involved in all that is on offer is an achievement in itself, and we actively encourage pupils to take opportunities to try something new and challenge themselves to reach for greater success

“I gave a presentation in assembly on growth mindset. I get nervous before presenting but it definitely boosts my confidence. I like to help others as much as I can by sharing my experiences.” Maxim, Year 5

I loved the fact that when I went on stage, it felt like my moment. Stella, Year 6

EMBRACE OPPORTUNITY

Learning and personal development are enhanced by a multitude of inspirational opportunities outside the classroom, such as trips, guest speakers, and chances to learn new skills that will be helpful in the future.

INSPIRED WE ARE

These experiences enable our children to excel personally and academically. Alongside academic skills and knowledge, our key drivers of being open-minded, global awareness and sense of community ensure our pupils become well-rounded, community-spirited and responsible young citizens.

Individual interests and talents are nurtured, and every child gets to experience something new. We have an exceptional team of staff at Ashville, all with their own backgrounds and insights which they use to enhance children’s learning. Inspiring guest speakers offer amazing stories and different perspectives to challenge how pupils think. Regular charity and community events give pupils an opportunity to make a tangible difference, from providing musical entertainment for care home residents to a litter pick in our local Yorkshire countryside.

School trips, which at this age are mainly around the UK, are an opportunity to put classroom learning into context, further facilitating a child’s instinct to explore the world around them. Our trips programme gives children the freedom to explore, instilling them with a sense of adventure.

Children can also take part in a diverse range of activities through our Co-Curricular Programme, discovering new interests and paths they may never have thought of before!

BE OPEN TO

PARTICIPATION

Pupils benefit most from their Ashville experience and make fond lifelong memories of their school days when they get involved in as many areas of school life as possible.

Every day

Every pupil can be a role model to others through how they conduct themselves. This may be in the classroom, by being confident enough to put up their hand and contribute to a group discussion, or helping a classmate. There are ways they can go further, whether it’s delivering an assembly to their class on a topic they care about, representing their class through through the Prep Parliament or holding a leadership responsibility in Year 6 such as Head Prefect or House Captain. Mainstay events throughout the year, from charity days to Remembrance Day, unite the community in a shared cause and pupils really benefit from these occasions.

Sport, Music, Drama, and the Arts

These are natural routes into deeper engagement in school life at Ashville. The Sports department prides itself on establishing a team culture that celebrates effort, commitment, integrity, and enjoyment; skills are engrained in the early years before children begin to play in team sports and take part in fixtures. There is a highly active programme of Music and Drama, with frequent opportunities through the year to perform in a range of settings. Creative expression is encouraged at Ashville, with an exciting Art curriculum and a variety of art clubs offered through the Co-Curricular Programme.

Which House are you?

The vibrant Ashville House system aims to foster a friendly and competitive team spirit and gives pupils of all ages the opportunity to come together and belong to a community other than their Form or Year Group. The four Houses of Duckworth, Ellis, Riverdale and Windermere enable all pupils to contribute to the success of their House by collecting House Points or participating in team events and competitions. This culminates weekly in the coveted House Cup being awarded.

I applied to be a Prefect because I wanted to be a role model, to help other pupils enjoy their Ashville experience as much as I have.

“ “

WE ARE CONFIDENT

INVOLVED WE ARE

TAKE PART IN OUR

CO-CURRICULAR PROGRAMME

School is the perfect time to try new things and find out where someone’s talents lie. We urge all our pupils to make the most of every opportunity that comes their way.

Our activities provision is known as the Co-Curricular Programme and forms a bridge between our academic curriculum and pastoral provision. There are many activities, ensembles, clubs, and training programmes that our pupils can opt to be part of.

Involvement in a wide variety of activities brings many benefits not only to a pupil’s personal growth but also their academic progress. Through participation in different activities, children:

• Improve their physical and mental health

• Develop skills such as resilience, confidence, risk-taking, problem-solving, and organisation

• Learn to work as a team

• Get the chance to represent the College

• Open their mind to new prospects

• Gain a greater feeling of community

WEEKLY CLUBS AND ACTIVITIES IN PREP SCHOOL EACH TERM, SUCH AS:

In addition, we offer one-to-one music lessons in a variety of different instruments and have a great wealth of talent amongst our peripatetic music teachers.

WE ARE

PROUD

FACILITIES

Ashville Prep School pupils benefit from a range of high-quality facilities and a 70-acre campus across which to learn and explore.

EXCITED WE ARE

HAVE FUN

At Ashville Prep School, learning and fun go hand in hand. You cannot have one without the other, because we believe that happy learners are successful learners.

It is of utmost importance to us that children remain children as long as possible. Our exceptional teachers provide experiences that pupils will remember for the rest of their lives and are committed to making sure they feel valued, happy and secure.

We want our pupils to remember school as a fun, exciting time. Our emphasis on positivity, mutual respect and kindness make the school a vibrant and exciting place to learn and make connections, but also a supportive place for pupils to express themselves and form real, lasting friendships.

There is never a dull moment at Ashville Prep School, from fun in the classroom (our teachers are passionate about bringing topics to life, and our dedicated outdoor learning provision transforms how concepts are taught), to excitement and laughter aplenty in the various school events, themed days and trips throughout the school year.

Pupils find their passions at Ashville, whether it’s through their favourite curriculum subject matter or through co-curricular life. When they do, this offers a whole new dimension to school life, and more opportunities for fun and fulfilment than they ever thought possible.

WE ARE THRIVING

FEEL CARED FOR

We are a happy and caring school where kindness is paramount, diversity is celebrated and each individual gets a chance to shine.

Pastoral care is of vital importance right across Ashville College, so staff do everything possible to create a positive, safe, and nurturing environment for children, from day one.

In the Prep School, the role of the Class Teacher is central to a pupil’s education and wellbeing. Our ‘just right’ class sizes enable teachers to get to know and spend time with each pupil. Children are encouraged to share their concerns and ask for help if they need it.

We know joining a new school in any year group can be a daunting experience for children. Our settling-in process helps ease that transition. Taster days ahead of the start of the new academic year help children familiarise themselves with their new environment and meet their classmates and teachers. When they start school, new pupils are assigned a ‘buddy’ to show them around and staff look out for new starters and work together with parents to identify and support with any concerns children may be having.

We offer a wraparound care service giving parents the peace of mind that their children will be cared for by our own staff after school whilst also giving working parents some flexibility at the end of the school day.

TOGETHER WE ARE

JOIN A COMMUNITY

You will find Ashville a warm and welcoming place where the people have one shared goal – the happiness and education of all the children in our care.

If you are considering a longer-term future for your family, you should know every pupil throughout the school, whether they’re in Year 1 or Sixth Form, is known, nurtured, supported to become the best version of themselves, and encouraged to follow their passions, wherever they may lie.

As a College we can offer your child:

• Seamless transition between key age groups

• A strong academic focus and small class sizes

• A warm, positive and supportive community

• The expertise of specialist teachers from across the school

• Continuity as children familiarise themselves with the places and people

• Social opportunities between age groups

• A sense of aspiration and responsibility for the very young, who want to be just like the ‘big boys and girls’

When your child joins Ashville, you join Ashville too. You will receive personal support from staff as your child progresses, and a warm welcome from our parents’ association, the New Friends of Ashville (NFoA). The NFoA is strong and supportive group that provides an invaluable link between parents and school and organises fun events and activities throughout the year.

WE ARE READY

BE PREPARED

Pupils are well prepared for every point of their transition through the school, not just academically but also socially and morally.

‘Moving up’ days take place for every Prep School year group in the Summer term, giving them a chance to meet their new Class Teacher and take part in taster sessions. These visits excite and familiarise the children before they move up a year group in September.

Prep School children use many of the same facilities as older pupils, such as the indoor and outdoor sports facilities for PE lessons, the Soothill Hall for Drama performances, and the Memorial Hall for Music lessons. Use of these facilities provides a profound sense of continuity and familiarity as pupils progress.

Year 6 is designed for pupils to make the most of their last year of Prep School, while also preparing for the move to Senior School. The Prep School enjoys a close relationship with Senior School, with regular opportunities throughout the Spring and Summer terms for Year 6 to learn more about Senior School life, meet pupils currently in Year 7 and 8, watch Senior School Drama productions, and attend taster sessions.

Pupils in Year 5 to Year 11 are equipped with school-managed Apple iPads, enabling us to merge traditional teaching practices with digital technologies.

One of the Ashville values is being ‘Prepared for life’. Whether a pupil wants to try their hand at something new, or start taking the bus to school from Year 3 upwards, there are plenty of opportunities for pupils to learn new skills or embrace a little more independence. Year 6 pupils are offered a Life Skills programme, which helps them to develop transferable skills and knowledge they may need to thrive in their future education and workplaces.

I’m so excited to do real Science experiments in the Senior School Chemistry lab when I’m older!

Jessica, Year 3 “

WE ARE ASHVILLE

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

The details make the difference when you’re choosing a school for your child.

Visiting us

To get a true sense of life in the Prep School, we would recommend a visit, privately or as part of an Open Event. This is a great opportunity for us to meet your child and for them to have a look around the school. Please contact our friendly Admissions team on +44 (0)1423 724863 or admissions@ashville.co.uk

Our Head of Prep School, Mr Phil Soutar, looks forward to welcoming you to Ashville.

The Prep School Day

Dates for your diary (2023-24)

Ashville Prep School Open Doors events

• Wednesday 25 October 2023

• Wednesday 29 November 2023

• Wednesday 7 February 2024

• Wednesday 24 April 2024

Scan the QR code for events listings and to register.

Ashville Prep School also offers quality in-house after school wraparound care for families who need greater flexibility around the core school day hours. This service can be used regularly, on an occasional basis or for one-off situations. This is charged by the half hour and is available until 6.00pm, with a variety of engaging activities for the children to choose from.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Bus services

Through our partner Vectare, we offer daily home to school bus services to provide handy transport for pupils (from Year 3 upwards) travelling from Harrogate and across the wider Yorkshire region.

Locations covered by our bus routes include:

Addingham Adel Alwoodley Boston Spa Bramham

Bramhope Chapel Allerton Harewood Harrogate

Ilkley Knaresborough Lawnswood Moortown Pannal

Pateley Bridge Pool in Wharfedale Otley Ripon

How to find out more

More information, including on fees, wraparound care and holiday camps can be found on our website.

We are now inviting applications for September 2024 to We welcome families to register for a place and we review applications on a rolling basis throughout the school year. We aim to make the process of applying to Ashville as smooth as possible.

Roundhay Spofforth Wetherby “

Scan the QR code or visit www.ashville.co.uk/admissions

“

We have the highest ambitions for our young people and strive for excellence in everything that we do. We would love to welcome you to visit us at Ashville Prep and see for yourselves what a creative, forward-thinking and vibrant school we are.

Mr Phil Soutar, Head of Prep