PREP YEARS 3,4,5,6
“Pupils enjoy a Blyton-esque life at this nursery-through-to-GCSE school”
TATLER 2023
Welcome
We are a thriving independent school situated on a magnificent 28-acre site in an idyllic part of North Yorkshire. Cundall pupils enjoy fresh air and plenty of room in which to learn, play and enjoy their childhood.
We are a thriving independent school on a magnificent 28-acre site in an idyllic part of North Yorkshire. Cundall pupils enjoy fresh air and plenty of room in which to learn, play and enjoy their childhood.
Cundall embraced co-education in the 1980s. Our staff therefore have significant experience in managing the education of boys and girls through the challenging phases of their adolescence so that they are well prepared and adjusted for life beyond the school gates.
A Cundall education is holistic and characterbased with an equal focus on the academic, active and creative. Our small class sizes enable us to challenge and support each other as we build our best future. Our vision is to be a school where pupils thrive and flourish as they experience the excitement and enjoyment of learning. We guide pupils towards reaching their full potential as passionate and innovative problem solvers, ready to contribute to society. At Cundall Manor, children can be strong and sure of who they are and what they can achieve. They can be ambitious and brave, unafraid of failure. Our children can be enterprising, inventive, and playful while being confident, thoughtful, inquisitive, and supportive of each other. Our extensive grounds, green spaces and woodlands foster exploration and discovery whether it is during Outdoor Education, break times or when we take learning outside of the classroom. Children develop sporting excellence through an extensive timetable as they transition through the school. Alongside daily dedicated Enrichment time, pupils are encouraged to explore their interests, build confidence and are afforded time to develop their strengths.
We are a close-knit community, and we are proud of our family atmosphere. Our pupils feel supported and valued, and we have always been fortunate to have such a dedicated supportive parent body alongside a committed team of teaching staff and governors, who all make Cundall the warm, vibrant, and inclusive school it is.
The school social calendar allows for ample opportunities for parents to feel part of their children’s Cundall education. Throughout the year there are parent evenings and formal and informal reports about your child’s progress. Teachers are on hand at all times to meet with parents. A weekly newsletter offers a flavour of the wide range of activities being enjoyed across the school. We take particular pride in the outstanding reputation that Cundall Manor enjoys and our impressive academic results. Our pupils are therefore well prepared for the next stage of their academic and personal development. We encourage all families considering Cundall Manor to come and visit our highly distinctive school and find out for yourself why educating your child the Cundall way is so special.
Mr Simon Weale Headmaster
Prep Phase
Years 3,4,5,6
Cundall Prep is a place where children thrive as authentic individuals and learn with the support of highly talented teachers across a range of subjects. Our children stand out as being competitive yet kind, pensive learners who challenge themselves: Cundall pupils are compassionate youngsters who work for the good of their community.
Years 3-6 at Cundall Prep is located around the Main School building. With Years 3 & 4 Form rooms positioned around a central play area exclusively designated for Prep pupils. They experience a sense of belonging within the broader school community while also enjoying their own designated space. Years 5 & 6 Form rooms are located around the Gym Building.
The Cundall Character Curriculum which is at the heart of all learning, allows each pupil to grow at their pace to achieve confidence and maximise their potential. Pupils aged 7-11 work in small classes, which is led by a group tutor, who is responsible for their study and welfare. This form tutor is their main teacher who inspires them, leads their learning and recognises their challenges for consideration.
Each year study English, Maths, Science, Humanities and PSHE in their main class and access Art, Music, Languages, Drama, Information Computer Technology and Outdoor Education through subject specialist teachers. As pupils progress through the Prep Phase they are introduced to a greater variety of teaching staff and this exposure plays a pivotal role in shaping pupils’ adaptability and confidence. Our pupils therefore develop a robust sense of oracy, independence, and social skills, enabling them to articulate their thoughts effectively and engage confidently with adults and peers alike.
Sport is a huge part of school life; with access to expansive grass sports pitches, Astro Turf , a swimming pool and Tennis courts, Cundall has many teams that children can get involved with, at all levels of abilities. Teamwork is a key ethos of the school - children play, learn, develop and mature within a strong year group unit. Parents are invited to support these sports fixtures both home and away.
Prep pupils have access to an extensive calendar of after-school enrichment clubs, educational day trips, socials and 2-night residential experiences. With quirky and fun events like the Cundall Go-Kart race, the chocolate cake race, axe throwing and the teepee campouts, the emphasis is on learning through fun, igniting curiosity and building confidence to try new experiences.
Cundall has a strong pastoral presence where every child is known well and cherished. Nurturing doesn’t happen only in the classroom, our pupils are cared for by every staff member; whether they are being served lunch or using one of our bus routes. Each child is supervised with diligence and respect and their wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do.
Our purpose is to provide a happy, safe, and stimulating environment where all pupils are valued and achievements are celebrated.
“The extra curricular programme is outstanding. I have never heard of another school that go on so many trips.”
PARENT OF CUNDALL MANOR, 2024
“Pupils’ attitudes to learning are excellent. Their love of learning is palpable”
Character Curriculum
Every child from the age of 2-16 benefits from the Cundall Character Curriculum. As each child grows through school they experience opportunities to be inventive and enterprising; playful and fun. Through teamwork and exploration within a supportive community, children become strong, ambitious and brave. In every year group our pupils learn to exceed their own expectations and feel part of something bigger. Our pupils are healthy in their approach, confident in their ability and therefore eager to succeed.
Our innovative Character Curriculum is designed to meet the needs of our rapidly changing world. The World Economic Forum regularly publish its list of skills that employers around the world look for in their new recruits. A third of these skills are the traditional hard skills such as competency in reading, writing and arithmetic and the acquisition of this knowledge is what is normally thought of as intelligence. However, two-thirds of the skills are what could be described as soft skills such as good judgement, decision-making and people skills; Critical Thinking; Complex problemsolving; Cognitive flexibility; Emotional Intelligence and service orientation; Creativity; Coordination and Negotiation.
Developing a thriving Character Curriculum is essential for our young people of today to ensure they are competitive and maximise their opportunities. We believe the full range of opportunities offered at Cundall Manor School promotes employability, and academic attainment and teaches pupils the skills they need to make good, informed choices. Pupils are presented with a vibrant school calendar of activities that broaden their horizons and enrich their experiences throughout their school life. Alongside dynamic classroom teaching, our pupils embark on thrilling day trips and excursions regularly, both locally and abroad allowing pupils to discover more about their interests and passions.
Assessments
At Cundall Manor, we appreciate every child has unique skills and strengths but want to ensure every child fulfils their full potential. To facilitate opportunities which support their continued growth, we need to know what they can do well and where we need to spend more time focussing our support. To track this, we assess our pupils throughout the school in ways that are appropriate to their age. Pupils are assessed against national averages through cognitive ability tests in areas such as verbal, non-verbal, spatial and quantitative skills. This is done using an online suite of problem-solving tasks that feel like fun but give us great insight into how our pupils learn, as well as potential ability. In addition to this, our teachers have a database of criteria within age-related expectations in English and Maths from Years 3 to 6. A combination of these two assessment techniques is used to determine their potential and current attainment. This data is then used to identify pupils who need further support and challenge opportunities. This type of assessment is not uncommon in schools, but how we actively engage with the data and the way we can track progress across Years 2 to 11 is far less common and something we’re especially proud of.
Nurture and Support
We are committed to personalised support for all pupils, ensuring they excel academically and emotionally. With small class sizes, our teachers provide individualised attention and encouragement. For those needing extra help, our dedicated Learning Support Department steps in, offering tailored assistance based on assessments and pupil needs. Led by our Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinator (SENCo), the department collaborates with teachers to unlock each pupil’s potential and manage exam access. Our inclusive approach, bolstered by regular assessments and feedback, ensures every pupil receives the support they need to thrive. Alongside classroom teaching, we provide small-group sessions and one-to-one interventions, further tailoring our support for pupil success.
Stretch and Challenge
We aim to stretch and challenge all pupils in line with their ability through extension tasks and activities that deepen all pupils’ enthusiasm and learning within a subject, in the classroom and during their prep work. Using a blended approach, founded in scientific research and the opinions of recognised experts in this field, we identify pupils who need to be stretched further, perhaps outside of the normal curriculum. These individuals are often encouraged to apply for a scholarship to share their enthusiasm and skills as ambassadors in their specialised areas within the school.
“The extensive grounds enable a broad sporting timetable and the children are active in the fresh air, come rain or shine on a daily basis.”
PARENT
OF CUNDALL MANOR PUPIL, 2023
Scholarship Programme
We’re extremely proud of our Scholars. Of the way they are ambassadorial in all that they do, leading in their field and being someone, our younger pupils can look up to. In return for being ambassadors of their chosen discipline, pupils access extra trips, training sessions, tutorials and a Scholars’ Supper which includes a meal and an inspirational speaker.
At Cundall Manor, we understand the importance of stretching and challenging all of our pupils. With this in mind, some events are open to all pupils, but there is an expectation Scholars should attend most. Our more able and talented pupils are encouraged to apply for Scholarships, to further stretch them in their chosen field.
Cundall Manor Scholars equate to roughly 10% of the whole school population and this is equitable between boys and girls, from Years 6 to 11.
Our Scholarship Programme offers opportunities to learn skills beyond the classroom, inside and outside of their subject area which can be invaluable for preparing pupils for life after their time at Cundall Manor School. We have welcomed lawyers who have helped Scholars with interview techniques and a professional Mindset Skills Coach who helped pupils look at the role mindset plays in success. These skills for life will serve our pupils well beyond their Cundall Journey and this support means our Scholars often achieve Scholarships to their future schools too, including Oundle, Scarborough College, Repton, Uppingham, St. Peters, Rugby and many more. In addition to these life skills, we use opportunities to enrich the learning pupils do within our broad curriculum and have welcomed Forensic Scientists to delve into applied science, and nutritionists to share specific needs to sustain an elite athlete and a professional stage fight choreographer! The possibilities and learning around their area of interest are endless.
Pupils can apply for scholarships in Academia, Art, Drama, Music, Sports or an All-Round award. This has a rigorous selection process but most pupils really do enjoy the assessment day. All Scholars are supported to ensure they’re getting the most out of the programme by a personal Scholarship Tutor, in addition to their Form Tutor.
How can I apply
Please see the Scholarships and Bursary Policy on the website for full details of the application process.
Meet our Staff
PREP LEAD (YEARS 3-6)
Mrs Anne Lane BEd (Hons) anneverity@cundallmanor.org.uk
YEAR 3 FORM TUTOR
Miss Anna Gisbourne
YEAR 4 FORM TUTOR
Mrs Heather Woods
YEAR 3 FORM TUTOR
Miss Elizabeth Clark
YEAR 5 FORM TUTOR
Mrs Melissa Raubitschek
YEAR 5 FORM TUTOR
Miss Sally Sanderson
YEAR 6 FORM TUTOR
Mrs Sally Watson
DIRECTOR OF OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Mr Stuart Jackson
YEAR 6 TEACHER
Mrs Sue Bailey
“It’s hard to put into words just how special this school is, it simply has a touch of magic. Seeing is believing.”
PARENT OF CUNDALL MANOR PUPIL, 2023
TEACHING ASSISTANT
Mr Matt Bessey
SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS COORDINATOR (SENCo)
Mrs Liz Graham
LEARNING SUPPORT ASSISTANT
Mrs Victoria Wick
TEACHING ASSISTANT
Mrs Lesley Ratcliffe
TEACHING ASSISTANT
Mrs Elaine Strong
LEARNING SUPPORT TEACHER
Mrs Julie Christy
TEACHING ASSISTANT
Mrs Baoshu An
English
All Prep children have daily English lessons, which focus on a key text. Text-based learning allows staff to fully immerse the children in a language-rich environment, whilst also supporting and improving their word-reading ability and comprehension skills.
At Cundall Manor School we aim to encourage an interest in the subject and develop skills in reading, writing, speaking and listening. The children are encouraged to become enthusiastic, independent and effective readers. They are introduced to a wide range of literature through independent and shared reading. Children read to an adult frequently and reading for pleasure is continuously encouraged and promoted across the entire school. We celebrate books and reading in our assemblies and in our yearly whole-school celebration of World Book Day.
Pupils are taught to develop, organise and express their ideas for a variety of writing purposes including diaries, letters, reports, stories, poems and book reviews. The pupils are guided in their ability to organise and structure their writing, use paragraphs, punctuation and grammar correctly and develop their vocabulary.
Throughout the Prep Department, our spelling programme is taught by the children’s English teachers. Spelling is reinforced in children’s independent writing; they are supported to identify and correct common errors, and to find strategies for memorising spelling patterns. The Learning Support Department works alongside English teachers to assist children who require further support. Homework and spelling are set weekly, and children are also expected to spend time reading each day.
MATHS
Maths
We aim to provide the pupils with a mathematics curriculum, which will produce individuals who are independent, enquiring and confident learners. We develop their ability to solve numerical problems in different contexts, both in the classroom and in daily life. Children are provided with opportunities to investigate questions, make mathematical decisions and develop an understanding of how and when to apply the skills learnt. Mathematics is taught through the White Rose scheme of work, supplemented where appropriate with other materials such as the DfE progression guidance, Rising Stars and Century maths. Throughout the school, computer software is used to facilitate the teaching and learning of new concepts and web-based activities and games, such as Times Tables Rockstars, reinforce and challenge the children’s understanding.
We take the opportunity to group children by their ability thus allowing the appropriate amounts of challenge and/ or support needed to access and complement the curriculum. Pupils are encouraged to feel positively about their Mathematics and have increasing opportunities to reason, justify and explain their work which allows them to develop a mastery approach to their learning.
Children also develop their knowledge and interest further by entering National Competitions such as The Primary Maths Challenge, completing our Maths Investigation mornings and taking part in our STEAM days - which involve the children in a variety of maths and science-based activities.
Science
Science in KS2 is taught using the exciting hands-on Pearson Science Bug programme. The knowledge objectives and working scientific skills are woven together in six half-termly units per year group. This provides our children with the opportunity to build the knowledge and skills needed to spark their imagination and fuel their curiosity. At Cundall Manor we aim to nurture confident young scientists by encouraging our children to think creatively and to develop their key inquiry skills through challenging experimental work, including practical investigations and outdoor learning. Our children enjoy the cross-curricular nature of this core subject and, throughout the year, academic trips are organised to link with the curriculum taught for each year group. Additional events such as STEAM mornings and Science Week activities are also scheduled to foster awe and wonder about phenomena and events in the world around us.
Humanities – Geography and History
Geography at Cundall Manor teaches pupils the knowledge, skills and understanding to make sense of the world. The curriculum is designed to have a balance of core knowledge (facts, location, names, vocabulary) and a sense of place (opinions, values, emotions), in order to develop a knowledge and understanding of real places, as well as how people affect the environment and are influenced by it. Pupils acquire knowledge of a range of diverse cultures and traditions. Ranging from closer to home; the UK, Scotland, London, even Ripon, and further afield; Greece, Africa and South America. They learn tolerance and understanding of other people and environments encompassing, mountains, the Mediterranean, biomes, rivers and coasts.
Our History curriculum allows pupils to think about themselves and the wider world. History helps pupils to understand the complexity of people’s lives, the process of change, the diversity of societies and relationships between different groups. Topics span the timeline of history from the Stone Age, Romans, Anglo-Saxons, Vikings, Tudors and Victorians in Britain, and other civilisations, Ancient Greeks, Egyptians and Mayans. Pupils are encouraged to ask questions about the past, present and future; to understand the past and celebrate the present. Time is spent developing historical skills such as interpretation and enquiry and pupils are encouraged to use a range of sources to compare customs and beliefs and evaluate their reliability. Pupils’ learning is complemented and further enriched by a variety of stimulating, interactive trips and activities across each year. These include Murton Park Stone Age Workshop, Royal Armouries in Leeds, Yorkshire Air Museum, African workshop and York’s Chocolate Story.
Religious Studies (RS)
At Cundall Manor, we follow a Religious Studies scheme of work where pupils observe and consider different dimensions of religion so that they can explore and show an understanding of similarities and differences within and between different religions and worldviews. These include, but are not limited to, the Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Sikh, Hindu and Buddhist world views and the less well known, Humanist, Zoroastrian, Bahá’í, Shinto and Jain. Pupils explore and describe a range of beliefs, symbols and actions so that they can understand different ways of life and ways of expressing meaning. This leads to pupils having an appreciation and empathy of other peoples’ views and instils the confidence to share their own views, whether religious or not. Topics revolve around ‘big’ questions. These include: Why are we here? Why do worldviews change? What is religion? How can worldviews be expressed? How do worldviews affect our daily lives? How can we live together in harmony when we have different worldviews?
Music
HEAD OF MUSIC
Mrs Sarah Reece sarahreece@cundallmanor.org.uk
Music is an integral part of Cundall’s life, permeating both our academic curriculum and extracurricular opportunities. Our prep school students receive at least an hour of specialised musical instruction each week, with many opting for additional individual instrumental or vocal lessons. The curriculum is enhanced by regular singing assemblies and excursions to live performances. Every year, every prep school pupil participates in at least one performance, and most do many more; pantomimes, performing arts evenings and musical theatre productions fill the calendar.
Our music education programme intends that all pupils become aware of music’s place in their own lives and the lives of others. They will become increasingly confident critical listeners, performers and creators of music. However, beyond the intrinsically musical, it is also about fostering personal growth and development, building well-rounded individuals who can confidently express themselves. Through music, we aim to instil qualities such as self-presentation, resilience, teamwork, active listening, perseverance, independence, and creative imagination in our pupils.
Our choirs, rock bands, Junior Bands, and musical theatre groups provide numerous avenues for students to cultivate their musical talents. Pupils showcase their skills at significant school events, such as the school Carol Service at Ripon Cathedral, Speech Day, our Summer and Winter Concerts, the House Music Competition, the Christmas Fair, and many smaller informal occasions. We encourage students to step outside their comfort zones so that they learn to cope with performance anxiety, and develop the flexibility to solve problems on those occasions when it all goes wrong. The sense of achievement and pride that comes from having overcome all those mental obstacles and delivering a successful performance to an appreciative audience is like nothing else!
We offer individual music lessons in a wide array of instruments, including:
Piano
Bowed strings – violin, viola, cello, double bass
Plucked strings – guitar (electric & acoustic), bass guitar, ukulele
Woodwind – flute, clarinet, oboe, saxophone, bassoon
Brass – trumpet, cornet, tenor horn, trombone, tuba
Drum kit
Singing
Pupils can do these simply for fun or can work towards recognised national exams. As well as performing at the many events throughout the school year, our musicians frequently achieve success at local music festivals, are wellrepresented at collaborative choral and orchestral events at other schools, and collaborate with other musical groups such as Ripon Cathedral Choir, Ripon Choral Society, the Easingwold Singers and De Mowbray Music.
Music Scholarships are available for talented and committed students entering Year 5 and above. We encourage both current and prospective students to apply for these prestigious opportunities.
Specialist Music Teacher
MUSIC TEACHER
Mr Vincent Conyngham
“Cundall encourages children’s strengths to flourish, so that they thrive and excel in those areas”
PARENT OF CUNDALL MANOR PUPIL,
2023
HEAD OF MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES (MFL)
Suzi Bewell suzibewell@cundallmanor.org.uk
Modern Foreign Languages
Cundall recognises the many benefits of learning a language for pupils from nursery all the way through to Year 11. Our pupils learn a language in the early years and pick up a second one in Year 5. In addition to this, our pupils have many opportunities in enrichment time to get a taster of other languages such as Italian, German and Mandarin Chinese.
Pupils are allowed to enjoy learning a language, whatever their ability. We have many links with schools abroad and are keen to connect our learners with other cultures, to develop truly global citizens. Cundall Manor MFL department has a tradition of creating fun and creative everyday lessons where pupils get to use their language skills for a real purpose. These include a foreign language fashion show, smoothie making and a café lesson where they order (and get to eat) food from a foreign menu! Cundall Manor has a long-standing trip in Swale to a beautiful chateau in Northern France, where our Year 8 pupils enjoy a fully immersive week of French. Those pupils, who opt for Spanish in Leckby, also have the chance to visit our Spanish partner school in Valencia, experiencing local culture alongside daily life in school.
All pupils are encouraged to take part in the European Day of Languages in September every year. Pupils are actively encouraged to use their languages as much as possible outside the classroom and enter language learning competitions such as the Language Nut online challenge, #celebratespeaking from The British Council and The French Pop Video Competition via the Institut Français, to name a few.
Specialist MFL Teachers
Katy Hunzinger
Castle Smith
Emma
Art
HEAD OF ART
Issy Vaughan issyvaughan@cundallmanor.org.uk
Art at Cundall is an exciting and diverse environment where students are encouraged to experiment with various materials and processes, including clay, plaster, acrylic paint, sculpture and textiles. Led by specialist art teachers and supported by a full-time technician, pupils in KS2 cultivate a passion for Art while building essential skills. They have access to our dedicated ceramics studio and engage in creating large-scale, captivating artworks, eagerly anticipating each art session. Throughout two lessons per week, they delve into the works of artists and diverse cultures, broadening their artistic horizons.
The aim of the KS2 curriculum is to instil a deep appreciation for the Creative Arts, fostering exploration of materials and the development of foundational techniques and processes, along with a basic understanding of key terminology, and a broad view of Artists and Art from other cultures.
We celebrate Art from all pupils around the school in vibrant displays which Show the student’s amazing aptitude for the subject.
While the schemes of work evolve, here is an overview of the current projects pupils are immersed in:
Year 3: Michaelmas term: Painting natural forms to explore emotional expression through color, inspired by artists like Kandinsky. Lent term: Sculpture inspired by Hopi dolls and Native American culture, focusing on cultural exploration. Summer term: Introduction to printing and artistic journeys, drawing inspiration from Richard Long and Hundertwasser, with a focus on line art.
Year 4: Michaelmas term: Creating mixed media studies of chickens inspired by Picasso, exploring emotional depth in artwork. Lent term: Continuing exploration of animals in art. Summer term: Creating felt frogs inspired by Henri Rousseau and broader textiles.
Year 5: Michaelmas term: Learning about art from diverse cultures, examining works by Picasso, Gauguin, and Modigliani. Lent term: Exploration of printing and weaving, focusing on African textiles and Chinese painting traditions. Summer term: Painting and drawing techniques with visible brush strokes inspired by impressionist masters like Monet.
Year 6: Michaelmas term: Studying Mexican folk art, Amate paintings, and observational drawing of Morandi Bottles. Lent term: Textiles project focusing on different stitches and cushion design, with an extension task to create further designs on the back of the cushion.
Specialist Art Teachers
ART
Mr Simon Vale
ART ASSISTANT
Mrs Anna Poulton
Sport
HEAD OF GIRLS GAMES
Mrs Louise Bessey
HEAD OF BOYS GAMES
Oliver Couttie
Cundall recognises the many benefits of health and well-being for pupils who participate in physical exercise. Our pupils play on average a minimum of 6 hours of sport a week, including their games afternoon. Our fixture list is packed with exciting matches across the north Yorkshire circuit and many of our pupils represent school at district, county and national level in their chosen sport and play in sports festivals and tournaments such as the ISA National hockey tournament played at The Olympic Park, London. Through sports, pupils learn patience, resilience and teamwork as well as understand the importance of working hard and collaboratively with their peers. Every pupil enjoys team sports whatever their ability and with over 20 different sports introduced throughout the year, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
During Michaelmas term boys rugby and girls hockey feature heavily on the games pitches. Lent term sees our boys playing hockey and football whilst the girls enjoy netball and football. During our summer term, both boys and girls enjoy athletics, track and field events, cricket and cross-country running. Pupils are taught tennis as part of the summer term curriculum for boys and girls, and they also have the opportunity to pay for private tennis lessons during the school day. Gymnastics and Dance is also delivered as part of the curriculum. Yoga, fencing and water polo are offered as part of our extensive enrichment programme.
Cundall Manor pupils enjoy swimming lessons throughout the year in our indoor heated pool. Many Cundall pupils are competitive swimmers who compete at club and county level. Pupils enter the ISA swimming competition every year in the Olympic-sized pool, in London. All pupils take part in our exciting inter-house swimming gala which is a memorable day for all involved.
In addition, Cundall Manor has a tradition of creating fun and out-of-the-ordinary sporting activities. From Year 3 the whole school community gets involved in the Race for Life Triathlon, Chocolate Cake Race (fancy dress obligatory) and the infamous Go-Kart Race.
Specialist Sport Teachers
TEACHER OF GIRLS GAMES
Miss Jemma Holden
TEACHER OF PE & BOYS SPORT
Mr Nick James
“My
youngest is a sports scholar and has had the opportunity to play in ISA and county level hockey matches, as well as listen to a talk from a former Olympian player.”
PARENT OF CUNDALL MANOR, 2024
PSHE
Personal, Social, Health, and Economic Education (PSHE) plays a crucial role in schools by providing pupils with essential knowledge and skills to lead healthy, happy, and fulfilling lives. PSHE encompasses a wide range of topics, including relationships and sex education, mental health and well-being, drug and alcohol education, financial literacy, and citizenship.
One of the primary benefits of PSHE in schools is its role in promoting the holistic development of pupils. By addressing topics such as emotional intelligence, resilience, and self-awareness, PSHE helps students develop crucial life skills that are not only essential for academic success but also for navigating the challenges of adulthood.
DIRECTOR OF OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Mr Stuart Jackson stuartjackson@cundallmanor.org.uk
Wild Wood: Outdoor Education
Our expansive Wild Wood, spanning one acre, serves as an enriching outdoor classroom for pupils in Years 3-6, complementing their classroom-based learning with dynamic, hands-on experiences. This immersive teaching approach deepens their understanding of the topics they study in the classroom. For instance, students delving into the Stone Age curriculum engage in practical activities within the Wild Wood, such as fire lighting, charcoal making, and constructing survival shelters using materials sourced directly from the environment. These experiences vividly bring to life the realities of prehistoric times, enhancing their comprehension. Furthermore students explore concepts like habitats and the natural world and learn how to keep a sustainable and managed woodland. Mathematical principles such as trigonometry come to life as pupils measure the heights of trees, applying theoretical knowledge in a real-world context as well as utilising natural elements like sticks and stones to decipher patterns, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Come rain or shine, classes are conducted outdoors. The Wild Wood boasts a variety of features, including winding pathways and secluded teaching areas equipped with wooden seating and bird-watching hides. For added excitement, there is even a designated area for axe throwing, providing a thrilling hands-on enrichment experience. Additionally, a pizza hut serves as a venue forpupil celebrations and gatherings, fostering a sense of community among both day pupils and boarders alike.
Our Wild Wood is a place to explore, discover, and grow, providing memorable educational experiences beyond conventional classroom settings.
Information Computer Technology
A robust computing education empowers pupils to harness computational thinking and creativity, enabling them to comprehend and transform the world around them. With deep connections to mathematics, science, and design and technology, computing offers insights into both natural and artificial systems. At its core lies computer science, where pupils learn the fundamental principles of information and computation, grasp the workings of digital systems, and master the art of applying this knowledge through programming. Cultivating this digital literacy prepares our pupils for the demands of the future workplace and active engagement in a digital society.
Schemes of work in KS2 include designing, coding, and troubleshooting programs aimed at achieving specific objectives, including tasks involving the control or simulation of physical systems. They develop problem-solving skills by breaking down complex issues into manageable components. They learn to employ sequencing, decision-making, and repetition within programs while gaining familiarity with variables and diverse input and output mechanisms.
The functionality of simple algorithms is explored, and pupils are taught to identify and rectify errors in both algorithms and programs.
The multifaceted services of the World Wide Web and computer networks are explored, recognising the potential for communication and collaboration they offer. The pupils are encouraged to exercise critical judgement in assessing digital content, discerning how results are curated and ranked, and mastering effective use of search technologies. They are taught about data collection, analysis, evaluation, and presentation using a variety of software. The pupils use technology safely, respectfully, and responsibly; recognise acceptable/unacceptable behaviour and identify a range of ways to report concerns about content and contact.
In addition to dedicated weekly computing lessons, the integration of Chromebooks into various subjects further enhances pupils’ IT proficiency, fostering a culture of digital literacy among the student body.
Drama
DRAMA
Mr Simon Vale simonvale@cundallmanor.org.uk
The pupils in Years 3 to 6 have Drama in the curriculum to develop physical, vocal and performance skills. Included are practical activities such as improvisation, games and role-play. The pupils are nurtured to build up their confidence, self-expression and imagination. And this ability to communicate clearly and succinctly to a wide range of people of different ages and backgrounds can not be underestimated, and neither can the team-building and empathy skills that are also developed through Drama. Performance experience is given to each year group through a range of poetry recitals, musicals, and shows like “A Play in a Week”, where every child is given a role in the play performed to parents. All these showcases offer valuable stage experience. Pupils are supported by further opportunities to participate in LAMDA exams.
“The emphasis is about giving new things a try, having fun and learning whilst you are doing it.”
PARENT
OF CUNDALL MANOR, 2024
Enrichment Options
(4-5pm Everyday)
The ethos of enrichment at Cundall Manor centres on developing skills for life. The programme broadens and deepens the academic and sporting curriculum that every pupil partakes in. Pupils may volunteer in the community, gain further qualifications in an academic or creative field, partake in fundraising exercises or develop their environmental awareness. We believe enrichment promotes employability, and academic attainment and teaches students the skills they need to make good, informed life choices.
The list is not exhaustive and changes every year in response to children’s needs and staff skills and interests. There is something for everyone and most importantly, an opportunity for them to track their progress, build confidence and ability, and maintain a permanent record of achievement to showcase when applying for the next stage of their education/career to set them apart from other applicants.
Enrichment takes part during term time from 4pm – 5pm every day. Enrichment subjects are set in age-appropriate classes and learning environments. All pupils are invited to an Enrichment Fair at the beginning of the new academic year where they are introduced to the options on offer.
Create
Calligraphy
Community Arts
Cookery
Creative Writing
Dress-Making
IT Skills
Jewellery Making
Lego Master Builders
Model UN
Music Practice
Musical Theatre
Photography
Pottery
Poetry Writing
Production
Move
Dance Comp
Dance GCSE
Eldmire D of E Silver
Extreme Running
Fencing
First Aid
Football
Judo
Horse Riding
Leckby D of E Bronze
Orienteering/Geocaching
RSPB Wild Challenges
Swimming
Sport
Sports Leaders
Tennis
Water Polo
Yoga
Succeed
Astronomy
Barclays Life Skills/ Money Matters
Book Club
BSL
Classics
Chess and Strategy Games
Croquet
German
Italian
Junior Rotary
Mandarin Chinese
Philosophy 4 Children
Science Club
RHS Gardening
World Scholars Cup
WOHAA
Young Enterprise
The ‘Team’ Around the Pupil
Pastoral Care
Children achieve their greatest success when they feel happy and safe in an environment where they feel respected and supported. At Cundall there is a real sense of community around the school; an extended family where children of all ages mix together.
Through all aspects of school life, pupils are encouraged to develop initiative, selfdiscipline, an inquiring mind, and an enthusiasm for self-development and support of others, all within the social structures of school life.
Every Cundall pupil has an extensive team around them to support them. We want every pupil and parent to be part of this journey. By working in partnership with parents, we aim to provide the best possible support at school and at home.
Form Tutors
Every Cundall pupil has a Form Tutor. The Form Tutor oversees the pupil’s academic progress and pastoral care, providing advice and support on a daily basis, as well as being the first point of contact for pupils and parents. Pupils meet their tutor every morning before school. Each Form Tutor has a Teaching Assistant.
Heads of Phase
Each Year Group has an allocated Head of Phase. They support the Form Tutor and pupils. They oversee the Form Tutor Programme.
Wellbeing Support Teacher and Inclusion Support Team
We have an experienced Wellbeing Support Teacher within the school who has a range of techniques to support pupils if they may be finding school life difficult at times. Pupils can be referred for sessions. These sessions are held in the Lodge, a welcoming and supportive environment for our pupils.
Teachers
All teachers are committed to the well-being of their class. The working environment of the classroom is one of mutual respect, trust, and care.
Parents
Our pastoral system is based on the principle of a working partnership between our parents and the school.
DEPUTY HEAD - PASTORAL & BEHAVIOUR
Clare Stovin
clarestovin@cundallmanor.org.uk
House System
Every pupil belongs to one of our four Houses – Tudors, Saxons, Stuarts and Normans. House points are amassed throughout the academic year and the winning house is rewarded with a day of celebration at the beginning of the next Michaelmas Term.
The vertical House system brings together pupils of all ages and provides opportunities for every pupil to understand the importance of friendship, support, respect and care for others within the greater school community.
House meetings take place weekly and allow the pupils to mix with all age groups to carry out a variety of activities. Recent themes have included ‘The History of Your House’ and ‘The Great Outdoors’; alternatively activities may focus on the pastoral theme of the term (such as Integrity, Perseverance, Heroism, Courage and Honesty).
All staff are also assigned to a house and attend the weekly house meetings, allowing them to develop uniquely relaxed and supportive relationships with a broader range of pupils than their classroom teaching may allow.
With children earning house points for good behaviour or exceptional school work, the house system reinforces our ethos of hard work and good manners, and allows for a healthy degree of competition within the school. During the year, several house competitions (in the form of sports tournaments, general knowledge quizzes, talent shows and singing contests) add to the very keen sense of service and support of one’s house. At the close of the school year, the winning house enjoys a house outing.
Rewards System
We are passionate about celebrating success in its many forms. House Points are awarded for many reasons, from good manners through to any success in the classroom or the sports field. These house points encourage intrinsic motivation and research confirms that this generally leads to the most positive outcomes.
Boarding
The boarding house is a home-from-home happy environment where children from Year 3 through to Thornton learn to live together as a community and can grow in confidence, knowing that our boarding staff are there to support them. We have two boarding houses, for boys and girls. We currently have accommodation for 34 pupils which is carefully designed with our pupils’ needs in mind.
Flexi places are available; some boarders regularly stay for two or three nights a week, and others are full weekly boarders. International students are usually termly boarders who immerse themselves in Cundall to improve their English and experience a different culture.
Pupils have supper, do their prep and then participate in a range of fun activities before tea and bedtime. Taster evenings are available as well as special pop-up Year group boarding socials, to allow our pupils to familiarise themselves with staying over. Boarders are treated to a special Friday night Activity Program to places ranging from laser tag, ice skating and cinema excursions.
Our Boarders are supported with their study for GCSE qualifications and during the lead-up to examinations. This provides a great structure for supporting revision and maximising potential.
We are a proud member of the Boarding School Association, visit their website to find out more about boarding across the UK.
www.boarding.org.uk
Houseparents
Sarah Reece boarding@cundallmanor.org.uk
Tony Reece
Trips & Social Events
MICHAELMAS TERM
SEPTEMBER
• Informal Parents’ Meetings
• Family BBQ
• School Photographs
• Harvest Festival at Cundall Church
• Whole School Triathlon
• Wild Wood Team Building Event
• Pupil Committee Meetings
LEN T T ER M
APRIL
• Easter Craft Morning & Easter Disco
• School Team Photographs
• Visit to Inspired Chocolate Leyburn (Yr 3)
• UK Junior Maths Challenge
S U M M ER T ER M
MAY
OCTOBER
• Tag Rugby Competition
• Barley Hall, York (Y5)
• Pumpkin Competition
• House Conker Competition
• Halloween Disco
• Music & Poetry Evening
• Maths Investigation Day
• Science Trip to the Life Science Centre Newcastle (Yr 6)
MARCH
• Whole School Chocolate Cake Race
• Science Week
World Book Day
• The Annual Go-Kart Race & Summer Fair
• Pupil Committee Meetings
• Marrick Priory, 2 night residential (Yr3)
• Low Mill, 2 night residential (Yr4)
• Bewerley Park, 2 night residential (Yr5&6)
• Charity Walk & Teas on the Lawn
• Murton Park Stoneage Workshop (Yr3)
• Orchestral Day @ Harrogate Ladies' College
• Trip to Royal Armouries Leeds (Yr4)
• Parents’ Meeting
JUNE
• Year 6 ‘Play in a week’
• Sports Day & Grandparents Lunch
• The Cundall Summer Ball
• Tipi Camp out
• Historical Day Ripley Castle
• Strawberry Picking
NOVEMBER
• Scholarship Assessment Day
• Children in Need Fancy Dress
• Remembrance Service
• African Workshop (Yr5)
• Crucial Crew Workshop (Yr 6)
• Christmas Fair
• Hockey Workshop
• STEMbotics Workshopp
FEBRUARY
• Romans Escape Box Workshop
• Wonderlab Science and Media Museum
• Ski Trip Jasper, Canada (from Yr 6)
DECEMBER
• Trip to York’s Chocolate Story (Yr6)
• Christmas Production, Galtres Centre
• Pantomime Trip to Harrogate
• Christmas Fun Day
• The Whole School Carol Service at Ripon Cathedral
JULY
• Ripley Castle Visit
• Speech Day
• Transition Events
JANUARY
• Whole School Charity Fun Run
• Pupil Committee Meeting
• Yorkshire Air Museum
Annual School Outing to Beadnell Sands in Northumberland for all our Pre-Prep and Prep School children. Parents are most welcome to come along and enjoy a fabulous day out at the beach.
Important information
School Day Structure and Extended Care Programs
The school day begins at 8:30am and academic lessons finish at 4:10pm. Wrap-around care is provided during term time from 7.30am with breakfast club. Enrichment takes part during term time from 4:10pm – 5pm. From 5pm there is also an after-school provision to support prep/homework requirements till 6pm.
Medical needs
If your child requires medication at school, please see your child’s teacher for permission to administer the medicine form.
Our school kitchen has a Nut Free policy and all our meals are homemade on-site. If your child has any food allergies, please notify our school nurse, Mrs Lee and complete a Care Plan form for your child.
Accidents are recorded digitally via our Engage portal. Trained first aiders will treat your child and complete an accident record including details of any treatment which is then sent to parents through Engage. In emergency situations, we will contact you and the relevant services immediately.
Please feel free to confidentially discuss any concerns you have regarding your child’s health with our School Nurse, Mrs Lee. vickylee@cundallmanor.org.uk 01423 360 920
If your child is asthmatic, we will need a spare inhaler to be held at school together with a care plan form - Mrs Lee will be in touch with you regarding this.
Any child who has suffered from a fever, vomiting or diarrhoea should be kept at home for 48 hours after the symptoms cease, to avoid infecting others.
Food and drinks
Fresh drinking water is available at any time. Prep provides healthy snacks in the morning and afternoon sessions. Our lunchtime menu plans are published in the weekly school newsletter and on the website, and food options are varied and well received by our pupils with healthy options, a fresh salad bar, tasty snacks and the infamous Cundall “bird seed” pudding being a regular feature.
Children with additional needs or disabilities
As part of the wider school, we have a Learning Support Department that works closely with the key workers and class teachers to help ensure early identification of any support that may be required.
Absence Notification
It is a legal requirement for us to keep a daily attendance register. If your child is unwell, or absent for any non-medical reason, please notify the School Office between 8.30am–9.00am.
If your child is in Years 3-6 please can you as a parent inform the School Office that they have arrived, so we can update the register. Permission for your child to be absent from school during school hours for a non-medical reason must be requested in advance via email: hmpa@cundallmanor.org.uk
Car Parking
We have an excellent provision for car parking but please take care when dropping off and collecting your child. We have policies and procedures in place for all eventualities. Please inform our staff if you think you will be late. For Form 3 upwards there is a supervised prep session held every evening from 5pm-6pm (4pm-6pm on Wednesdays) which is held in the Senior School next to the Main Car Park. This is free of charge. Should there be a family emergency, we will look after your child until they can be collected.
Uniform
All children should arrive and depart from school in their school uniform and blazer. School uniforms must be kept in good repair. If you need to purchase a school uniform, please visit the Cundall Manor School online shop at www.cundallmanorschool.com/shop for a full list of items. The school also features on www.grownoutofit.co.uk for pre-loved uniforms.
Mobile Phones
Please note that mobile phones are NOT allowed in school.
Chrome Books
Chromebooks are required for Year 5 pupils upwards. In order to integrate IT into the everyday learning for children it is much more beneficial for them to use the same device each day.
Valuables
Please do not allow your child to bring valuables to school. All watches must be named on the back with your child’s name. Pupils’ own laptop/ Chromebook devices are not covered by school insurance. You are advised to add these to your own insurance policy.
Policies
The school has a large number of policies to guide its educational and care procedures. Copies of these policies are available to view on the school website or can be supplied upon application to the school office.
Financial Queries
The Business Office is happy to assist with any queries regarding School Fees or funding requirements.
Contact details
In order to receive information from school it is vital to check that your correct contact details are on our database and kept up to date. We are proud of our commitment to open communication with parents and the wider community. The school parent portal, Engage, has a calendar function that helps parents keep track of all of the amazing activities and events at our school. Please follow us on our Facebook & Instagram social pages for more frequent updates: /cundallmanor, /cundallsports.
Bus Routes
More stops available upon request. What3words offer precise locations.
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2024-2025 Bus Runs
Northallerton
Tontine/ Hutton Rudby Bus
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All children using our school bus service arrive at school for 8.30am and catch the bus home at 5pm. Please note there is no bus service on a Wednesday afternoon. All our pupils from Reception upwards may request a place on the school bus, with younger pupils requiring a car seat to be provided by parents.
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Children are expected to be well behaved on our school buses and listen to the bus driver at all times. Please note that priority for places on the bus is given to termly users.
For more information about routes, times and availability, please email bus@cundallmanor.org.uk
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Where we are Road
Air
Cundall is easily accessible via the A19, A1 and the M1.
Leeds Bradford Airport is 50 minutes away by car and Manchester Airport is 2 hours away by car.
Rail
Regular trains run from London to Thirsk in 2hrs. Trains also connect Edinburgh, Leeds and Manchester to York. The school can organise transport from York and Thirsk stations to the school.
Situated in
idyllic part of North Yorkshire, we are well connected with road and rail links.
“There’s an energy about the school, a huge sense of fun, of adventure, combined with truly superb teaching and a culture that is about caring.”
PARENT OF CUNDALL MANOR PUPIL, 2023
