ACADEMIC STUDY

In these formative years, it is vital to associate learning with enjoyment, interest and reward.

Our approach, particularly in the Nursery and Pre-Prep, is to make learning a joy and an adventure, whilst instilling behaviours that will make the more formal teaching of the Prep more accessible. However, our belief is that new concepts are learnt, understood and embedded through a practical ‘hands-on’ approach. We believe that everyone learns better through active participation and every child is encouraged to find their passion. We then nurture this passion – from mathematicians to musicians, from sportspeople to scientists, and from engineers to economists; we provide a foundation for all.

At the Prep, a balance is achieved between core subjects and the creative arts – music, drama, art, design – through engagement both in the classroom and out in the extensive grounds, in which we nurture the interplay of participation, performance and enjoyment from the outset. It is this interplay that develops in our pupils a curiosity, a willingness to learn and the ability to think independently. Our approach at Repton Prep is to give our pupils the tools they need to carve their own path – those of an ethic of hard work, continued determination and resilience, and the sense of inner discipline.

It is our belief that schools should focus their resources on the aptitudes that are uniquely human – personal, social, creative, physical, moral and spiritual. A space and culture which promotes entrepreneurial activity is essential to nurture and develop these qualities in our young learners.

Objectives

To use data tracking and analysis to inform teaching practices, embracing the latest pedagogical thinking that makes learning a natural, enjoyable part of life for all ages.

To promote opportunities for community and collaboration across the school and wider curriculum that enable the whole school to come together.

To make sure that the academic transition to senior school is a smooth and universally positive experience for each child and seek opportunities to develop independence and entrepreneurial skills.

To embed digital literacy and responsibility from the outset and upgrade and expand the existing technology provision.

To continue to build breadth into the curriculum in order to prepare each child for the real world in which they will work and live; seamlessly linking with their senior school experience and beyond.

To increase our curriculum to include Textiles, Dance and Food Technology.

To increase the regularity of visits from professionals such as writers, poets, historians, inventors, scientists, and business entrepreneurs, in order to move ‘subjects’ out of the classroom and into life.

To reinforce the EAL programme, in light of the expanding Repton family of schools.

To continue to expand a differentiated approach to learning for all pupils by embedding extension and support in all lessons.

Plans To Deliver On Objectives

Redevelopment of the theatre to expand its footprint, increase opportunities for whole school events and provide a better performance space for all.

Continued maintenance and development of the stand-alone Pre-Prep building, embedding the magic that is created at this formative age.

Improve digital technology and innovation through increased resources and a more flexible teaching and learning space.

Investment in a bespoke educational programme for Years 7 and 8 to develop skills and independence through an enhanced curriculum offering, maintaining academic rigour but expanding learning opportunities.

To review the curriculum across all subjects in order to capture equality, diversity and inclusivity through a range of subjects by magnifying curriculum themes to include greater variety in taught topic areas.