UPPER SCHOOL AT
MICKLEFIELD
FROM THE HEADMASTER
It is my pleasure to welcome you to Micklefield School. As Headmaster, I am incredibly proud to lead this thriving school community, where each child is valued and nurtured. Micklefield is more than just a school; it is a family, built upon the core values of Kindness, Respect, Resilience, and Responsibility. These values foster a warm and caring atmosphere, allowing every child to feel supported and inspired to reach their full potential.
Our outstanding pastoral care ensures that each child is treated as an individual and celebrated for who they are. As children progress through the school, they benefit from a rich curriculum delivered by specialist teachers. This breadth of opportunity available at Micklefield allows children not only to discover their interests and build essential skills but it also prepares them for the journey toward the ‘right fit’ senior school, where they can continue to thrive.
Micklefield is proud to be part of the Reigate Grammar School (RGS) Family, which shares our commitment to educational excellence and a strong focus on providing a fulfilling and enriching experience for every child. We encourage our pupils to face new challenges, take risks, and build confidence by having a go, knowing our supportive staff are here to guide them every step of the way. Through this nurturing approach, we empower each child to become a happy, confident and well-rounded individual.
This booklet will share information regarding our exciting and imaginative approach to learning, which I hope you will find informative and helpful. I would be delighted to meet with you and talk further at any time to share what makes Micklefield such a special place.
Ryan Ardé Headmaster
THE SCHOOL STRUCTURE
Micklefield educates children from 2 years and 6 months to 11 years old. To ensure the very best education and support for each child, the school operates a Lower and Upper School structure (see below). This booklet focuses on Upper School:
Lower School
Rising 4s
Early Years Foundation Stage Rising 3s Children can join as they turn 2 years and 6 months old.
Reception
Key Stage 1 Years 1&2
The pre-school year. Children can join mid-year if spaces become available.
The first year of ‘big’ school. Children move up from Nursery or join Reception classes directly in the September, before they turn 5 years old.
Children move up from Reception. Places sometimes become available for direct entry into these year groups.
Upper School
Key Stage 2 Years 3–6
Occasional places become available for direct entry into these year groups.
TRANSITION TO UPPER SCHOOL
Most children move up from our Lower School, although we are also delighted to welcome children directly into the Upper School if spaces become available. The transition for new and existing pupils is carefully managed by our experienced staff and the children always look forward to this new and exciting stage of their education.
“Pupils exhibit excellent self-confidence and awareness.”
EXCELLENT ACADEMIC OUTCOMES
Our children achieve excellent academic outcomes and move on to senior school as good citizens, ready to make the most of the range of opportunities the next stage of their educational journey will bring. We put this academic success down to the following:
A Breadth of Opportunity – Our wider curriculum is designed to be broad and stimulating with non-core subjects valued alongside more traditional learning. Our bespoke programme nurtures the children’s diverse interests and talents, giving them the opportunity to discover their passions, build new skills and understand the world from multiple perspectives.
Inspirational Teaching – Our creative and imaginative approach to learning encourages the children to think beyond conventional boundaries. Our exceptional class teachers and subject specialists bring expertise, enthusiasm and adaptability to their classrooms and joy and curiosity to the children’s school day. They promote a deeper understanding of the subjects the children are studying, stimulating their imaginations and helping them to explore concepts in unique and meaningful ways.
“ The school fully meets its aim to equip pupils with a life-long love for learning.”
ISI Report 2023
One Big Family – Micklefield children know they belong to a supportive school family that genuinely cares about their wellbeing. The close-knit environment helps staff to develop a deep understanding of each child’s unique learning style, strengths and areas for growth. The family atmosphere also encourages collaboration and teamwork, so the children feel confident asking questions and learning from one another, which are essential elements of the learning process.
“Our children feel connected to their peers and teachers, they actively participate in class discussions, are willing to tackle challenges and persevere in problem-solving.”
Ellie Lloyd, Wellbeing Coordinator
“Pupils conveyed an outstanding willingness to overcome any setbacks, look positively at their achievements and learn from any mistakes.”
Distinction | 2024-2025
ISI Report 2023
“The core values sit at the heart of everything we do and complement our family ethos. We believe that the values support our children, not only in school but also beyond the school gates.”
Fiona
Yarde,
Director of Studies
PREPARATION FOR LIFE
“When children experience the wonder of the world, they also develop a desire to look after the environment and show care and compassion for all.”
Natalie Easton, Science Teacher
We are extremely proud of our children’s academic successes but firmly believe that a good education is about so much more. It is in the formative junior school years that children shape the values, attitudes, and social behaviours that underpin a happy and fulfilled adulthood. At Micklefield, we recognise this and aim to support our pupils to grow into responsible, compassionate and resilient individuals through our ‘More to Micklefield’ programme. It draws together elements that help the children build positive relationships, make good decisions, face challenges with confidence and have a sense of responsibility for themselves and those around them.
Wellbeing & Core Values
We have a comprehensive wellbeing programme, which is centred around our core values called the KRs. They are Kindness, Respect, Responsibility and Resilience and are woven into all areas of school life. The KRs help the children to develop a moral compass, and underpin our caring school community. Assemblies, PSHE lessons, theme weeks and many more initiatives are based on the KRs.
Global Citizenship
We help the children to reach beyond the school to the wider community and to recognise that they have the power to be changemakers. Our proudest moments are when children organise their own initiatives such as fundraising, litter picks or sharing their global concerns with the wider community. Children’s actions are praised, celebrated and shared so that they can inspire others and feel a sense of pride for the difference they are making.
Pupil Voice
When children feel heard and valued, it enhances their self-worth and they feel connected to the school community, which builds their emotional intelligence. Our School Council provides a forum for this, and the children regularly discuss issues and ideas that matter to them.
House System
Our House system creates a sense of belonging, teamwork and healthy competition throughout the school. It plays an important part in character development as it teaches the children the value of cooperation and working towards shared goals, building a sense of loyalty and pride.
“Throughout the year, fun and interactive morning assemblies take place, often involving team games. They are always energetic and a brilliant way to start the day. The children look forward to House competitions with much anticipation and excitement!”
Gary Baguley, Deputy Head
and Pastoral
Lead
Positions of Responsibility
Leadership opportunities help the children to develop teamwork and a sense of responsibility. Every Year 6 child is given the opportunity to take on a leadership role which rotates termly. Each year group has Form Prefects who help with daily tasks and specially trained Peer Mediators help monitor the playground and support their peers.
THE CURRICULUM
The Upper School programme is based on the Key Stage 2 National Curriculum which we have enhanced and developed to meet our children’s specific needs, interests and values. As an independent school, we can respond quickly to developments in educational thought and methods and are continually innovating to ensure we are at the forefront of modern teaching.
ENGLISH
We encourage a love of reading with a well-stocked and accessible library, book collections in every classroom, reading challenges throughout the year, and author visits to inspire the children. Upper School children regularly present work orally in the classroom in the form of book reviews, discussions and debates. Writing is taught using ‘The Write Stuff’, an excellent scheme that sharpens writing skills by helping the children develop ideas, literary techniques and grammar tools. There is a strong focus on creativity, communication and collaboration. English is celebrated throughout the school year through writing workshops, World Book Day events and well-attended Parent/Pupil Book Clubs.
“Our children love English! They are enthusiastic and critical readers, accurate and fluent writers, and clear communicators. It is a joy to see!”
Jennifer Gillibrand, English Coordinator
MATHS
We want each child at Micklefield to become a successful mathematician with a deep understanding of maths concepts and fluency with numbers. We do this via a mastery approach, with small steps providing the building blocks for secure mathematical understanding. We adapt the pace of the curriculum to make sure the children have properly cemented their understanding before moving on. Children are exposed to precise mathematical vocabulary, which is consistent throughout the school. By encouraging a healthy culture of ‘maths talk’ we aim to knock down barriers and foster a love for the subject. Children are encouraged to take part in National Maths Competitions and often achieve incredible results! This is all done in the spirit of fun!
“Pupils have an outstanding command of numerical and wider mathematical concepts.”
ISI Report 2023
INFORMATION & COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY (ICT)
Our aim is to equip the children with essential skills and knowledge that will help them embrace the digital age with confidence and creativity. The curriculum is carefully designed and constantly evolving to stay apace with the rapidly changing world of technology. We cover a wide range of topics, including programming, web development, data science and online safety.
Lessons take place in our modern computing suite with access to oneto-one computers and each child has their own allocated iPad. Both have the latest software and hardware, providing students with a hands-on learning experience. The school has also incorporated the use of VR headsets across the curriculum, enhancing engagement and interactivity. This allows the children to immerse themselves in diverse learning experiences, bringing complex concepts to life, and fostering creativity and critical thinking.
“Our
lessons are interactive as we want the children to ‘feel’ the maths in their hands –this empowers them as learners and helps to truly build a firm understanding of the concepts being taught.”
Josie Copeman, Maths Coordinator
“We
work closely with students to tailor the curriculum to their abilities and aspirations, whether they are budding programmers or digital artists.”
Daniel Bracken, ICT Coordinator
SCIENCE
Science at Micklefield is about helping children make sense of the world around them by developing within them a sense of curiosity and excitement. Upper School children are encouraged to question, predict and investigate in every lesson with a focus on both practical skills and content knowledge covering Chemistry, Physics and Biology. Pupils access a range of equipment to discover and explain phenomena whilst gaining scientific facts and enquiry skills that will help them in their future studies.
SPORT
Our team of passionate and professional teachers are committed to fostering a well-rounded and active lifestyle for all the children through separate Physical Education (PE) and Games lessons. PE plays a vital role in promoting physical, mental, and social wellbeing, and we strive to provide an enriching and inclusive experience for every child. We prioritise the development of fundamental movement skills, coordination and physical fitness, ensuring everyone builds a solid foundation for future physical activity participation. The importance of sportsmanship, fair play and teamwork are emphasised, helping to embed our school values. Upper School children have two afternoons of Games per week, and they participate in football, rugby, netball and hockey, as well as cricket and swimming. Weekly matches against other schools allow the children to develop the skills they gain in Games lessons as well as fostering camaraderie and school spirit. The emphasis is on participation and development and the children are always excited to play in fixtures and represent their school.
LANGUAGES
Our Upper School French language programme is designed to engage and inspire young learners, focusing on developing essential language skills through interactive and enjoyable activities. As pupils progress through the school, they develop the skills required to express opinions, talk about themselves, their family, their interests and life at school, as well as practical language for travelling to French-speaking countries. Our curriculum emphasises speaking, listening, reading and writing, allowing children to gain confidence and proficiency in their communication skills. In Year 6, pupils also study a term of Spanish. This gives them the opportunity to explore a fresh, new language and prepares them for their language choices at senior school level.
ART & DESIGN TECHNOLOGY (DT)
Art & DT at Micklefield cultivate creativity, innovation, and technical skills, with lessons taking place in our specialist Art & DT studio. Children explore a wide variety of materials and techniques, including painting, textiles, woodwork, photography and collage. Upper School artists explore a new artist or movement each term, enhancing their analytical skills through discussions and research. In practical sessions, they experiment with techniques like drawing, painting, and mixed media, developing creativity, confidence and resilience.
In DT, children gain hands-on experience in woodwork, textiles and graphics, creating projects such as kites, cushions and tote bags. They combine inspiration from existing products with their own ideas, bringing innovative designs to life.
“The highlight is the annual Year 6 DT parade, where students proudly showcase their DT creations, equipping them with skills for future learning.”
Lisa Pullen, Year 6 Learning Support
“Our weekly Art Club offers additional creative exploration, while the Art Scholarship Club helps students build portfolios and deepen their skills.”
Hayley Parsons, Art & DT Coordinator
MUSIC
“Our music curriculum is more than just learning to play instruments; it’s about developing a deep, enduring love for music. We aim to equip our students with the skills and passion to enjoy and create music throughout their lives.”
Kate Swan, Head of Music and Drama
We believe in nurturing every child’s musical potential through a comprehensive and dynamic music curriculum designed to inspire creativity, develop technical skills and foster a lifelong appreciation for music. Every class receives two lessons a week from our experienced Head of Music and Drama, and the children learn to read music and explore a variety of tuned percussion instruments. Ukuleles are introduced to help develop coordination and finger dexterity, and in Year 4, children can learn a brass instrument which strengthens respiratory control, builds embouchure muscles, and fosters a sense of achievement through mastering a challenging instrument.
Our curriculum also includes exciting drumming projects where children engage with djembe and samba rhythms. These activities not only teach more complex rhythm and timing but also expose the children to diverse musical traditions. We encourage students to listen to and appraise music from a broad spectrum of genres. This exposure helps them develop a well-rounded musical ear and an appreciation for different styles and cultures. Using the skills and knowledge gained in the practical curriculum, children are given opportunities to compose and create their own music. This process fosters creativity, self-expression and confidence.
We have many professional musicians who visit the school each week to give individual music lessons during the school day. Most Upper School children are involved in this singing and instrumental programme, and we offer numerous ensembles that they can be part of, which further extends their musicianship. These include Senior Choir, Orchestra, Recorder Groups, String Ensemble and Rock Bands. Children have numerous opportunities to perform in assemblies and concerts throughout the year. A highlight is singing with thousands of other children in front of a large audience at Wembley Stadium!
DRAMA
The Drama curriculum is designed to build confidence and communication skills in a fun, supportive environment, giving the children the freedom to work at their own pace and explore personal interests. Children can engage in activities like verse and prose, group speaking, public speaking, acting, mime and improvisation. Our classes often include warm-ups, games, voice work and text interpretation, creating a well-rounded experience. Our Drama teacher gives all Year 6 children ‘interview skills for life’ training, preparing them for senior school interviews which stands them in good stead for life beyond school. Many of the children are involved in individual LAMDA lessons, and LAMDA results are always outstanding.
“From their earliest days with us, children have regular opportunities to perform in front of their classes, in assemblies, as well as in plays and concerts. This includes opportunities to perform at local theatres.”
Paul Avery, Year 4 Teacher
SCHOOL TRIPS & EDUCATIONAL VISITS
RESIDENTIAL TRIPS
At Micklefield, we always encourage the children to enjoy new experiences and relish challenges. They look forward to Residential Trips, including:
Year 4 – A one-night trip away to a local outdoor activity centre;
Year 5 – A three-day visit to the Isle of Wight;
Year 6 – A week of activities and experiences in France.
EDUCATIONAL VISITS
Day trips are also an essential part of broadening the children’s horizons and complementing their curriculum studies in interesting ways. Day trips in the Upper School include outings to Hampton Court, Wakehurst Place, Winchester Science Centre, Look Out Discovery Centre, Bough Beech Flow Zone Educational Centre, London Coliseum, and Henley Fort.
WRAPAROUND CARE & EXTRACURRICULAR
We offer Wraparound Care from 7.30am to 6.00pm every day and exciting holiday clubs (through our partnership with Ultimate Activity Camps) during the school breaks.
WRAPAROUND CARE (TERM TIME)
Breakfast Club (payable) – from 7.30am to 8.00am gives parents an option to drop children before the start of the school day. Children have a light breakfast and enjoy quiet activities before joining their classmates at 8.00am.
After-School Club (payable) – from 3.30–6.00pm divided into two sessions. The first session includes a light snack and the second session a nourishing tea. There are lots of activities on offer.
EXTRACURRICULAR CLUBS (TERM TIME)
Extracurricular clubs play a vital role in fostering sportsmanship, teamwork and camaraderie among the children. By emphasising enjoyment and participation over competition, clubs create an inclusive environment where children can develop essential life skills, such as communication, resilience and leadership. We offer over 30 clubs a week with the programme changing each term. Here are just some of the clubs on offer:
360 Creative Animation Art Athletics Cartoon Drawing Chess Choir
Creative Thinking Current Affairs Dance Eco-Warrior Football Greek Mythology Hockey
Jewellery Making Music Club Netball Orchestra Problem-Solving Programmable Lego Robotics Rock Bands Rugby Spanish Tag Rugby TED Talks Virtual Reality Yoga
HOLIDAY CLUBS
We have partnered with Ultimate Activity Camps who offer engaging holiday programmes in our buildings and grounds during the Easter and summer breaks. They have a strong reputation for high-quality provision that is engaging and fun. The camps are separately bookable via the Ultimate Activity Camps website: www.ultimateactivity.co.uk/locations/reigate.
THE MICKLEFIELD COMMUNITY
Our families are the cornerstone of the wonderful Micklefield community and are regularly invited to share in the children’s learning by attending events such as assemblies, productions, writing and reading workshops, fixtures and Micklefield family days.
We have an active parents’ association (Friends of Micklefield – FOM), which organises fantastic social and fundraising events for children, parents and staff. Some examples are discos, movie nights, parents’ quiz evenings, cheese and wine events, wreath-making workshops, Micklefest Family day, the Christmas Fair, the summer ball and the annual golf day.
MOVING ON TO SENIOR SCHOOL
11+ PROGRAMME
Our bespoke and well-planned curriculum is taught throughout the school and fully prepares the children for entry into senior school. Children access a wide range of subjects which offer a breadth of learning opportunities, including a strong focus on personal development. In Years 5 and 6, there is a tried-and-tested support programme, which provides children with the necessary skills to confidently take part in the senior school application process. (Also known as the 11+ programme).
Our overriding aim is to ensure that we support families to find the ‘right fit’ senior school so that their children will thrive in their new environments. This may be Reigate Grammar School (RGS) or other top local schools.
REIGATE GRAMMAR SCHOOL
As part of the Reigate Grammar School family, Micklefield children can benefit from the continuity of a consistent educational ethos if they transition there. Year 5 children who have chosen this path can receive an early offer of a place at RGS without having to sit the entrance exam.
EXAMPLE TIMETABLE: YEARS 3&4
Micklefield School, 10 Somers Road, Reigate, Surrey RH2 9DU 01737 224 212 | admissions@micklefieldschool.co.uk www.micklefieldschool.co.uk MicklefieldSchoolReigate micklefield_prep