Our Approach to Learning by Oundle School and Laxton Junior School

Our Approach to Learning

Explore Discover Empower Nurture

Lydia Waller, Head

“As Head of Laxton Junior School, I am delighted to be introducing to you our bespoke Pre-Prep and Prep curriculum model

Our ambition at LJS is to provide a Prep School education of the highest class combining academic rigour, specialist teaching, character development, breadth of opportunity and future readiness; something I believe wholeheartedly this structure enables us to achieve

At our school, we recognise that our most invaluable and important resource is our staff This approach is crafted to elevate our children’s education by harnessing the very best level of expertise from our teachers.

Our approach is grounded in an understanding of the developmental needs of the children, is rooted within a culture of high expectations and fosters the holistic growth of each child as a unique individual. It endeavours to prepare our children for the joys and challenges they will face at each stage of their educational journey and throughout their lives.”

The Learning Journey

As our children progress through the School, from Reception to Year Six, their learning journey is delivered in three interwoven stages: Explore, Discover and Empower. At the foundation of the whole learning journey is our Golden Thread of Nurture, which encompasses everything we do as a school.

The Golden Thread of Nurture

Every child at Laxton Junior School is known and understood.

The ‘Golden Thread of Nurture‘ weaves through every classroom, every lesson and every interaction, shaping the growth and development of each child at Laxton Junior School. In a practical sense, it represents the holistic approach we have to pastoral care. The aim of Nurture is to ensure that each child feels heard and their individual needs, interests and feelings are valued by teachers and staff who they trust.

Pre-Prep: Reception to Year Three

Our Pre-Prep years are the foundational phase where children develop a love of learning. These years begin with exploration and hands-on learning that evolves into more structured educational experiences in line with children‘s growth and development. Life skills such as critical thinking, independence, communication and problem-solving are at the heart of our provision.

“Children are natural scientists, investigators and problem solvers. Exploring subjects through guided play allows them to draw real meaning and master that skill.”

Rachel Waterhouse, Assistant Head Admissions

Explore Discover

With guidance from expert staff, the children’s natural curiosity takes them on a journey of exploration. Filled with purposeful activities and interactive elements to inspire each child to investigate subjects on their own terms, the learning environment is designed to act as an ‘additional teacher’. This approach enables children to acquire a true understanding of topics that will stick and continue to be developed.

As they transition into the latter years of the Pre-Prep phase in Years Two and Three, children continue to deepen their understanding of subjects through an enhancement of the Explore stage. They will continue to be led and inspired by the teacher in an age-appropriate learning environment to experiment, question and discover the intricacies of many complex topics.

Fast Facts:

Children in Pre-Prep are divided into Form Groups of up to twenty, led by their Form Teacher and supported by a Teaching Assistant.

Children are taught by their own Form Teacher as well as Subject-Specialist Teachers.

Pre-Prep FAQs:

What does Explore look like in Reception and Year 1?

At the Explore stage, children participate in guided play, where expert staff use their knowledge of the children to develop key skills, based on their known next steps. By really getting to know each child - their passions, interests, talents, strengths and areas for development – staff can tailor learning for every individual. Whilst inspiring learning through play, the adults discuss, question and stretch the activities with the child, cementing what is being learned. Through play, children explore the world in a way that makes sense only to them; engaging with the world in a meaningful, purposeful way is simply another way of saying learning.

Does my child receive any Subject-Specialist Teaching in Pre-Prep?

Yes, Specialist Teaching is delivered in subjects such as Music, PE, Swimming and MFL. In addition, children in Years One to Three receive Subject-Specialist Teaching in RE and Computing; Science for children in Years Two and Three will be also be taught as a specialist subject.

Is there Prep (Homework)?

Every child is given Prep activities that are appropriate for their stage of learning.

How is my child’s progress monitored?

Form Group and Subject-Specialist Teachers closely monitor your child's learning and personal development whilst liaising with each other to ensure that their individual needs are met. Your child’s progress is shared with you through Parent Conferences and School Reports over the course of the academic year.

Who is the main contact for my child?

Your main contact is your child's Form Teacher, both in person and via email.

How do each of the year groups in Pre-Prep differ?

The guided play and exploration in Reception and Year One enables the children to access the changing curriculum as they enter Years Two and Three. The emphasis evolves from being child-led and adult-guided to increasingly more adult-led as the children progress through the year groups.

Prep: Year Four to Year Six

Our Prep Model is designed to ensure our philosophy of high expectation and quality remains at the centre of all that we do. With pupils working in smaller Tutor Groups, we can prioritise individualised attention and holistic support. Curriculum delivery provides focused teaching that capitalises on our staff‘s passions and talents, with the aim of achieving holistic excellence across all areas of each child‘s development.

“Our team of Subject-Specialist Teachers brings expertise and passion to every lesson, fostering true quality and engagement.”

Sumitha Hill, Assistant Head Academic

Empower

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The Prep phase also the potentially tumultuous pre-adolescent period which can be challenging, in addition to the approaching transition to a new school and more advanced curriculum. Tutors will assume the role of mentor, coach and champion, offering tailored guidance, constructive feedback and unwavering support to nurture the development of each child.

Fast Facts:

Dedicated Subject-Specialist Teachers lead teaching in all subjects for Years Four to Six.

Children are supported in Tutor Groups of around ten.

Children are taught in their Form Groups, made up of two Tutor Groups, with the exception of Maths where they learn in three sets.

Prep FAQs:

How does this approach support my child in transitioning to Senior School?

Expertise in Subjects: Subject-Specialist Teachers provide indepth knowledge and expertise in their respective subjects, ensuring that the children receive high-quality teaching and are well-prepared for the academic rigour of senior school

Individualised Care: Smaller groups facilitate stronger relationships between children and their Tutors, creating a supportive and nurturing environment where each child feels valued and understood. This eases the transition to senior school by providing a sense of belonging and emotional support during this period of change.

Preparation for Independence: By working closely with SubjectSpecialist Teachers and Tutors, children will learn important study skills, critical thinking, and time management techniques that are essential for success in senior school and beyond

Why

does this start at Year Four?

By Year Four, children’s cognitive abilities have grown; they have improved attention spans, memory, and problem-solving skills This enables them to tackle more challenging academic tasks and concepts and they are ready to further their mastery of different subjects

Across Years Four to Six, children undergo significant physical, cognitive, emotional, and social changes as they transition to adolescence. Smaller Tutor Groups will better facilitate individualised care, personalised support and a safe space at what can be a developmentally turbulent time for children

What is the role of the Tutor?

The Tutor's role is vital in supporting children through their academic and personal journey. Tutors act as a key link between home and school and are the first point of contact for parents and children They act as advocates, ensuring each child's needs are met and progress is monitored across subjects. Through regular check-ins and meaningful interactions, Tutors establish strong connections with children and families, fostering a sense of belonging within the school community.

What are the benefits of a subject-specialist approach?

Subject-Specialist Teachers have in-depth knowledge and expertise in their subject areas, enabling them to provide the highest quality teaching. With a deep understanding and passion for their subjects, teachers can inspire, effectively convey complex concepts, and foster deeper levels of learning. Teaching and lessons can be tailored to meet the needs of each child, providing support, scaffolding and challenge.

How is my child’s progress monitored?

Tutors and Subject-Specialist Teachers will continue to closely monitor your child's learning and personal development whilst liaising with each other to ensure that children’s individual needs are met Your child’s progress is shared with you through Parent Conferences and School Reports over the course of the academic year.