Collingwood School Prospectus

Collingwood School

Nurture, challenge and inspire

A place to nurture and grow

Collingwood School is place where memories are made and our children are given every opportunity to thrive and achieve their dreams. The Collingwood Tree is our commitment to growth and development, as well as the sense of community among the students and staff.

Our pupils’ names on each leaf of the tree is a way to celebrate and acknowledge their contributions to our core values – care, courtesy and consideration, which form the roots of our school.

We expect the children to consistently demonstrate these ‘virtues’ and in our caring, nurturing environment, our pupils actively develop their independence, selfconfidence and a sense of responsibility.

“It is a memorable moment when one of our pupils places their name on a leaf on our tree, as we celebrate and acknowledge their contribution to our happy community.” Aplace

to grow A place to be inspired Aplacetonurture Aplace to feelhappy Aplacetobechallenged

Welcome

We know that choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions that a parent can make. A parent’s priority is the happiness, well being and achievement of their child and that is also our priority here at Collingwood School.

Collingwood is a happy, vibrant and truly nurturing school. The atmosphere here is one in which our children feel secure, supported and valued. It is a place where our boys and girls are also challenged to be the best that they can possibly be.

It is not possible to convey in these few words what a special place Collingwood School is and, for that reason, I strongly encourage you to come and visit and experience it for yourself; I would be delighted to meet you and show you around.

Leigh Hardie, Headmaster, Collingwood School

Our Guiding principles

1 2 3

A place of nurture, challenge and inspiration

Collingwood School enjoys a strong academic, musical, and sporting reputation with healthy competition encouraged through the House system. We get to know our pupils as individuals, and they are known by each and every member of staff. They thrive in our school community and grow in confidence, fully prepared for the next part of their adventure as they enter their chosen senior school. Our guiding principles are to nurture, challenge and inspire each child.

Care, courtesy and consideration

Three words that underpin the philosophy here at Collingwood School are Care, Courtesy and Consideration. Our aim is that when children leave our school at the end of Year 6 they are confident, polite and thoughtful. We aim to help them become well-rounded and self-assured with the confidence to feel excitement for the next stage of their education. Children have every opportunity to develop in technology, music, drama, and sport and can ‘hit the ground running’ in these areas in their future places of education.

Our values and aims

The qualities of care, courtesy and consideration underpin our philosophy and we promote good manners, thoughtfulness, confidence and attentiveness towards others. We recognise the importance of being part of a community and of the sharing, trust and consideration required in order to work with others. The uniqueness of every child is celebrated and the curriculum reflects the needs of every pupil through a love of physical, active, creative and academic activities. Coupled with a positive partnership with parents we can maximise the potential in each child.

“Collingwood School has an excellent music curriculm where my daughter excelled with her passion.”

Parent at Collingwood School

A place to be inspired

A place to nurture – Eco School with Green Flag Award

In the last year, we are delighted to have been awarded the Eco-Schools status. The whole school community has worked with passion and commitment to play their part in making the school a more environmentally friendly place, knowing our role to nurture our planet.

Led by a pupil-run Eco Committee, we have worked to develop our lovely garden to make it a more inviting place for insects, birds and animals, grown our own fruit and vegetables; campaigned to our local MP; and re-evaluated the school menu to include plant-based meal options with recipes designed by our own children. These are just a few of the wonderful projects enjoyed by children across the school as they have all developed their awareness and understanding of their place in the wider world.

A place to challenge – stretch our brains with Higher Order Thinking skills

Higher order reasoning skills is an integral part of the Collingwood School curriculum.

Whether it is the solving of mathematical puzzles, debating an issue of current affairs or solving a scientific conundrum, the pupils are taught key ‘thinking language’ and learn to articulate their thoughts through analysis, synthesis and illustration. Older pupils design ‘weekly thinks’ for all the school to discuss and ponder and all lessons encourage the use of this higher level ‘brain activity’. This has been a major development in our teaching and learning as it constantly evolves to meet the needs of the 21st century student.

A place to inspire – iPad technology for every child

It is an ever changing world and our pupils are at the forefront of learning through technology. Every child from Years 1 to 6 has their own personal iPad device on which they can work alongside classmates and the teacher. While learning the skills of traditional skills of literacy and numeracy remain paramount, each child’s learning can be broadened, enriched and individualised through exciting and simply inspirational digital projects. Making videos of scientific investigations, recording and evaluation of our performance in gymnastics routines, planning and creating a podcast or digital artbook – these are just a few of the examples of iPad-based learning that can be seen around our school. The children are certainly more than ready for the digital demands of the future.

The Eco judging committee concluded by stating ‘We have loved reading about your journey and are incredibly impressed by all you have achieved... We have no hesitation in awarding you an Eco-Schools Green Flag with merit. Congratulations!’

Teaching Philosophy

Nurture, challenge, inspire

Collingwood School offers a broad and balanced curriculum from the ages of 2 to 11. It is guided by the National Curriculum but not restricted by it. Pupils in the school study the following subjects: English, Mathematics, Science, Art, Geography, History, French (from Nursery), Spanish (from Year 3), Reasoning (from Year 3), Design Technology, Computing, Physical Education, PSHE, Religious Education and Music.

At Collingwood School, we have specialist teachers for various subjects from Reception onwards. Our coaches provide excellent football training, and visiting teachers offer individual music lessons for various instruments. Additionally, we have a multi-purpose gym.

Our curriculum is supplemented with educational visits, including residential camps, which are enjoyed by pupils of all ages.

We offer an extensive sports fixtures list, allowing U9 and U11 pupils ample opportunities to represent the school in team sports like rugby, football, cricket, netball, and rounders. Individual sports such as athletics and swimming are also available, along with a variety of extra-curricular activities for all ages.

Collingwood School

Mindfulness and Healthy Living

a place to nurture…

At Collingwood School, we recognise the challenges children encounter early on, impacting their wellbeing and academic progress. Our goal is to nurture joyful, self-assured learners from Nursery to Year 6. With a dedicated emphasis on PSHE, we empower children to recognise their emotions and cultivate strategies for a positive mindset and sound mental health within our school community.

Mindfulness and Exercise

Studies indicate that teaching children ‘Mindfulness’ enhances their understanding of emotions and needs. At Collingwood School, our students participate in a weekly outdoor ‘march’ for everyone to start the week invigorated and ready to learn. ‘Mindfulness’ sessions, engaging in diverse calming activities such as guided meditation, breathing techniques, yoga, mindful music, and sensory walks. These practices empower them to lead more content and healthier lives. This has been a key factor of our Eco Schools ‘Green Flag Award.

Welcome to our nursery

The hidden gem in our school

In our Nursery, both boys and girls follow the Early Years Foundation Stage goals just like any other setting. However, we go above and beyond to enhance their experience. With small group sizes, we provide exceptional levels of adult care and attention. Moreover, we offer special ‘extras’ like music sessions, sport, yoga, drama, and outdoor learning with our ‘Woodland Adventures,’ making our early years setting truly one-of-a-kind at Collingwood.

Our older pupils support our nursery

The older students from Years 5 and 6 in our school family enjoy spending time in our Nursery and actively participate in the enjoyable learning activities. They not only serve as positive role models for behavior but also set a great example for our 2, 3 and 4-year-olds. This aspect is a crucial part of the Collingwood Way.

As they progress to the ‘big school,’ parents can rest assured that their children have cultivated confidence, independence, and remarkable social s kills during their educational journey.

Collingwood School

Our pupils aspire to achieve their very best

Our pupils embrace challenges both academically and personally, fostering leadership, responsibility, and selfbelief. Our oldest pupils, in particular, serve as inspiring role models for the younger ones as they take on various roles such as sports captains, house captains, playground buddies, and digital ambassadors. Year 6 leaders are expected to demonstrate independence, diplomacy, and courtesy – all essential life skills for the future that awaits them.

Collingwood Voice and Eco Committee

From Reception to Year 6, children have the exciting opportunity to be part of the ‘Collingwood Voice,’ our very own student council, where they represent the views and opinions of our pupils. They can also play a part in our Eco Committee, with a pledge to look after the environment of the school and the whole community.

In these meetings, led by a Year 6 chairperson, we foster independent thinking, responsibility, and the invaluable skills of articulation and persuasion from an early age.

Recently, our council has taken on the challenge of enhancing our outdoor learning and play areas, as well as improving accessibility for all. The Eco Team have redesigned areas of our grounds and campaigned to our local MP regarding the costs of recycling for all. Their passion for positive change shines through!

PSHE and Citizenship

Integral to our curriculum, our PSHE and Citizenship program encourages our pupils to contemplate the broader world and the environment, along with their safety, health, and happiness.

Collingwood

“Pupils’ social development is excellent and a strength of the school and encouraged by all staff who act as positive role models.”

ISI Independent Schools Inspectorate

Celebrating Success

Every child in Years 5 and 6 takes part in our distinctive award program for personal development, known as the Collingwood Way Award. This program is designed to inspire and challenge our pupils as they strive to acquire new skills in our six C’s:

Collaboration

Peer interaction and collaboration start early in life at Collingwood. Children are taught the value of working together side by side.

Creativity

Fostering creativity involves teaching real-world problems, how to approach situations and understanding the nuances of emotions.

Communication

Our children are taught the skills of empathy, listening and the art of engaging in meaningful conversations.

Citizenship

Children are taught the importance of ethics and how to contribute positively to society.

Critical Thinking

We teach our children to be critical thinkers, encouraging independence where they learn to confidently form opinions.

Character

We encourage every child to work together and brainstorm ideas for projects, fostering the development of strong character traits.

Collingwood School has always acknowledged that the school experience encompasses more than just academic achievement. We take pride in nurturing individual growth and fostering our pupils’ independence, resilience, and sense of responsibility. The Collingwood Way Award takes it a step further, preparing our pupils for life beyond Collingwood. These skills are essential for a lifetime of continuous learning and facing the challenges of the 21st century with confidence.

“The school provides an amazing selection of activities for everyone to be part of – there is something for everyone.”

Parent at Collingwood School

Life at Collingwood

Sport, music, drama and art – areas that too often become ‘squeezed out’ of other school curricula – remain integral to ours. We know how important it is for children to be given the opportunity to develop skills and self-confidence in these disciplines and specialist teaching is the key.

Sport

Every child gets the opportunity to find a sport in which they can grow and succeed in. We offer a plethora of different sports in the hope to engage our future sportsmen and women. The children are fortunate enough to have extremely enthusiastic staff, some of whom are highly skilled at their chosen sport.

Music

With an inspirational Head of Music at the forefront, our pupils develop their musical ability and a love for the subject along the way. Children sing in a choir right from the beginning of Nursery and they become quite accustomed to ‘public’ performance from a young age.

Drama

Standing up in front of an audience can be a daunting experience for some children. We know how important it is to encourage this from an early age and all our pupils have Drama as part of the curriculum led again by our specialist teacher. It is wonderful to see their confidence enhanced, and their performance skills grow.

Our thriving Drama Club offers the further opportunities for public performances and recent hits have included Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Mary Poppins. Many students study towards LAMDA exams in speech and drama and recent results yielded 14 distinctions!

Art and Design Technology

Being based in the former residence and studio of celebrated artist, Frank Dadd, the teaching of Art is a proud tradition at Collingwood. Our children have the opportunity to develop their artistic skills to a high level and they proudly present their finest pieces at our annual art exhibition.

Developing the skills of Design and Technology is also an important feature of our creative curriculum from a young age. The pupils have the opportunity to use a range of equipment to cut, drill, fix and saw. The work they produce is highly impressive for children of such a young age.

Preparation for senior schools

It may sound rather daunting, but the decision about the next stage in a child’s education may appear on the horizon sooner than most parents had ever imagined! Fortunately, we are here to guide and support the pupils and parents through this important transition. We strive to balance the needs of all our pupils as they take their own pathways into the future and our teaching is strategically organised to meet the demands that this brings.

We keep an open dialogue with our parents regarding their plans for 11+ future school choices and offer guidance and focused teaching in the key areas of English and Maths in preparation for the competitive exams. Extra classes take place outside the normal curriculum hours. In addition, they will be prepared for the subject-specific and general interviews that may be a part of the process, particularly if pupils are applying for scholarships.

Whatever the next steps will be for each child, we will guide our parents through the application process and offer advice as to the school that will be the ‘best fit’ for their child. We will continue to work with parents and pupils throughout Year 6 to ensure that everyone is fully prepared for the transition to each of the chosen senior schools.

Independent Senior Schools

A number of the schools that our Year 6 pupils have gone on to attend in recent years include the following:

• Ewell Castle

• Old Palace

• Whitgift

• Royal Russell

• Trinity School

• Caterham School

• Kingswood House

• Croydon High

• Sutton High

We have successfully sent several children in recent years with an 11+ offer for Wallington Grammar Schools. There are a number of excellent, highachieving secondary schools in the area where many forner Collingwood pupils have gone on to achieve impressive results.

‘For 2024 applications, nearly 50% of our Year 6 pupils passed the 11+ entrance exams for Wallington Grammar Schools’

Collingwood

Life after Collingwood

We trust that your experience at Collingwood School will be enjoyable. You might also wish to explore the option of enrolling your child in one of our senior schools following their time at Collingwood.

Rookwood School information:

Headteacher: Mrs Jennifer Jellard

Address: Weyhill Road, Andover, Hampshire, SP10 3AL

Website: rookwoodschool.org

Email: receptiondesk@rookwoodschool.org

Telephone: 01264 325900

Status: Day and Boarding School, co-educational Age: 3 to 18 years

Saint Felix School information:

Headteacher: Mr Matt Oakman

Address: Halesworth Road, Reydon, Southwold, IP18 6SD

Website: stfelix.co.uk

Email: schooladmin@stfelix.co.uk

Telephone: 01502 722175

Status: Day and Boarding School, co-educational Age: 2 to 18 years

St Francis’ College information:

Headteacher: Mr James Nichols

Address: Broadway, Letchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire, SG6 3PJ

Website: st-francis.herts.sch.uk

Email: admissions@st-francis.herts.sch.uk

Telephone: 01462 670511

Status: Day and Boarding

Girls ages: 3 mths to 18 yrs

Boys ages: 3 mths to 7 yrs

Yateley Manor School information:

Headteacher: Miss Laura Ball

Address: 51 Reading Road Yateley, Hampshire, GU46 7UQ

Website: yateleymanor.com

Email: office@yateleymanor.com

Telephone: 01252 405500

Status: Day School, co-educational Age: 2 to 16 years

Inspired Learning Group senior schools

London

To visit one of our senior schools or to book a place at an open day please visit the school website. We also run a bus service from each school, please call the school office to find out which services run near you.

Collingwood School

3 Springfield Road, Wallington, Surrey, SM6 0BD

Telephone: 0208 647 4607

Email: schooloffice@collingwoodschool.org.uk

Web: collingwoodschool.org.uk

Follow us: Collingwood