Lower School at Chinthurst by Chinthurst School

LOWER SCHOOL AT CHINTHURST (Reception – Year 2)

Academic Excellence, Powered by Heart.

WELCOME TO LOWER SCHOOL At Chinthurst, we believe children achieve their best when they are happy, confident and truly known. In Lower School, academic excellence is powered by heart: high expectations go hand in hand with warm relationships, individual attention and a genuine understanding of each child. We nurture curiosity and a love of learning from the outset, giving every child the right balance of challenge, encouragement and support. Our teachers know when to stretch a child, when to offer a helping hand and how to inspire them to discover just how much they are capable of. Learning is about much more than academic progress. Children are encouraged to ask questions, explore their ideas, learn from mistakes and become increasingly independent. Along the way, they develop the kindness, resilience, confidence and communication skills that will help them flourish both in and beyond the classroom. By the end of Year 2, our aim is for every child to move into Upper School with strong academic foundations, a belief in themselves and, above all, an excitement about what they can learn next.

Toni Burton

Head of Lower School

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE, POWERED BY HEART

At Chinthurst, excellence grows through nurture. We know young children learn best when they are happy, secure and truly known, so warmth, encouragement and individual care are at the heart of everything we do. Alongside strong foundations in reading, writing and maths, our broad and stimulating curriculum gives children opportunities to explore, discover and develop their talents. Specialist teaching at different stages of the Lower School complements the expertise of class teachers, with music, drama, languages, art, sport and swimming, science, computing, STEAM and outdoor learning bringing breadth and excitement to every child’s school experience. By nurturing curiosity and confidence from the very beginning, we help every child flourish and achieve their very best.

PERSONALISED LEARNING Every child is different, so their learning should be too. Small classes and strong relationships mean our teachers and teaching assistants know each child well – what excites them, how they learn and when they need a little more challenge or support. Teachers adapt activities, questions and resources to help every child make progress at the right pace. This might mean extra guidance to build understanding or greater challenge to encourage deeper thinking. In phonics, for example, children learn in small groups matched to their stage rather than their age, so teaching is always at the right level. Every child is known, supported and encouraged to make the most of their individual strengths.

“Pupils develop academically, personally and socially and are well prepared for the lifetime of learning ahead of them.” ISI Inspection 2026

PUTTING THE FUN INTO LEARNING We never forget that childhood is precious and that children learn best when they are happy, engaged and enjoying themselves. Our Lower School classrooms are lively, creative places where learning captures the imagination. Excellent teaching brings lessons to life through stories, investigation, practical challenges and play. A new topic might begin with a mysterious crime scene inspired by The Evil Pea, science might involve building houses for the Three Little Pigs, and maths might take learning outdoors. These memorable experiences encourage children to explore, experiment and get involved. There is real purpose behind the fun. When children love learning, they become motivated, resilient and increasingly independent – eager to discover what comes next.

GROWING THROUGH CHINTHURST

Chinthurst welcomes children from age 2 to 11, supporting them throughout their journey from Nursery to Year 6. Our Lower and Upper School structure ensures that, at every stage, children enjoy an education, environment and level of care that are just right for their age. Lower School

Early Years

Key Stage 1

Nursery (Acorns & Oaks)

Our youngest children can join us when they turn 2.

Pre-Reception

Children move up from Nursery (Oaks) into Pre-Reception, or can join us in the September before they turn four. Places may also be available during the year.

Reception

Children move up from Pre-Reception or join us from other nursery settings in the September before they turn five.

Years 1& 2

Children continue their Lower School journey through Years 1 and 2. Places are sometimes available for children joining Chinthurst at this stage. Upper School

Key Stage 2

Years 3 – 6

From Year 3, children move into Upper School and continue their Chinthurst journey to Year 6. Places may also be available for children joining Chinthurst during these years.

“Pupils are supported to grow and flourish, including the youngest children in the early years.” ISI Inspection 2026

RECEPTION

“Children in the early years benefit from a well-planned and well-organised curriculum that supports their early learning and developmental needs.” ISI Inspection 2026

A HAPPY START TO RECEPTION Reception at Chinthurst is made up of two classes. Many children move up from our Pre-Reception next door and are joined by children coming to us from other settings. September is a new beginning for everyone, and we take great care to make the transition feel happy, familiar and exciting. Children moving up from our Pre-Reception already know the staff, buildings and routines well. During the summer term, our Reception teachers spend additional time in Pre-Reception too, helping those relationships grow so that familiar faces are waiting when September arrives. We make just as much effort to help children joining us from elsewhere feel at home. They meet their new teacher and classmates at our Meet the Teacher morning in June, staff visit new families at home during the summer holidays, and everyone comes together for our Teddy Bears’ Picnic just before term begins. By the time the first day arrives, our aim is for every child to feel that Chinthurst is already somewhere they belong.

STRONG FOUNDATIONS, NEW OPPORTUNITIES In Reception, children follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum, with carefully planned teaching balanced by purposeful play and child-initiated learning. Across all seven areas of learning and development, children build strong foundations while developing the curiosity, confidence and independence to thrive. Throughout Reception, we carefully follow each child’s progress through observation and assessment, building a clear picture of their individual strengths and next steps. This helps us provide the right support and challenge for every child as they learn and grow. At Chinthurst, we build on these foundations with opportunities that make the Reception experience especially rich and varied. From the very beginning, children benefit from the expertise of the wider school, with specialist teaching each week in French, music, drama, PE, games and swimming, alongside early computing. This breadth gives children the chance to try new things, discover what excites them and begin developing their individual interests and talents. Outdoor learning is part of every day in Reception. Children enjoy free-flow access to their dedicated outdoor space, extending their learning beyond the classroom through play, exploration and practical experiences. Weekly Discovery Afternoons provide further opportunities to explore, create and learn beyond their usual lessons, developing curiosity, resilience and teamwork.

YEARS 1& 2

BUILDING ON STRONG FOUNDATIONS Years 1 and 2 are exciting years of growth, discovery and increasing independence. Building on everything established in Reception, children become more confident as learners while retaining the creativity, curiosity and sense of wonder that make these early school years so special. Learning is brought to life through imaginative themes and memorable experiences. Children might become superheroes, seaside explorers or weather analysts as part of their English work, act out the Great Fire of London or investigate a mysterious crime scene inspired by The Evil Pea. Topics are carefully designed to help children make connections, deepen their understanding and become genuinely absorbed in what they are learning. Reasoning, problem-solving and resilience become increasingly important. Children are encouraged to explain their thinking, persevere when something feels difficult and understand that mistakes are a valuable part of learning. As they move through Years 1 and 2, they also take on greater responsibility for themselves and their learning, preparing them gradually and confidently for Upper School.

READING & PHONICS Becoming a confident reader opens up a world of stories, ideas and possibilities. From the earliest days in Reception, children develop the skills they need to read successfully while sharing stories, discovering new words and enjoying books together. Children follow the Read Write Inc. phonics programme throughout Reception, Year 1 and Year 2. They learn in small groups matched to their stage of development rather than simply their age, so teaching is carefully tailored to what they need next. Regular assessment allows groups to change as children progress, ensuring the right balance of support and challenge. As confidence and fluency grow, children explore an increasingly wide range of books, developing their vocabulary, comprehension and a genuine enjoyment of reading.

“Staff match activities to children’s needs and stages.” ISI Inspection 2026

“When Year 1 begin The Evil Pea, they find their classroom transformed into a crime scene. Dressed as superheroes, they can’t wait to investigate – and their excitement becomes the inspiration for their writing.” Toni Burton, Head of Lower School

BECOMING CONFIDENT WRITERS Stories provide the starting point for much of our writing. Through Talk for Writing, children become immersed in stories and language, learning texts orally and exploring them through drama, role play and discussion before using these ideas in their own writing. Alongside developing their ideas and vocabulary, children are taught the physical skills of writing. Correct letter formation is established from the beginning, progressing towards a fluent cursive handwriting style as children develop confidence and control. As children progress, they learn to structure their ideas, make thoughtful vocabulary choices and develop their own voice as writers. In Years 1 and 2, author’s notebooks provide a place to collect interesting words, ideas, sketches and inspiration, encouraging children to see themselves as authors and take increasing ownership of their writing. Speaking and listening are an important part of this journey too. Through storytelling, conversation and discussion, children learn to express their ideas clearly, listen to others and grow into confident communicators.

“Pupils are keen to learn and are engaged during lessons. They are articulate, confident communicators.” ISI Inspection 2026

“Pupils develop firm foundations regarding core skills in reading, writing and mathematics.” ISI Inspection 2026

CONFIDENT MATHEMATICAL THINKING In Reception, children have fun with numbers, exploring and experimenting with them in lots of different ways. Numicon, games and visual resources help children see mathematical ideas in action, building a secure understanding of number from the very beginning.

“The children start with 10 skittles standing up. They knock over 5 and then count the 5 that are still standing. Now they know that 5+5 makes 10!” Lara Bland, Reception Teacher

As children move into Years 1 and 2, they are encouraged to challenge themselves, think through problems and learn from their mistakes. Practical resources such as counters, Dienes, dice and cubes continue to support understanding, while challenge activities encourage children to think more deeply. Short, regular practice of arithmetic skills and times tables helps important number facts become secure. Learning develops across three key areas: fluency, building rapid recall and the flexibility to move between mathematical concepts; reasoning, explaining and justifying answers using mathematical vocabulary; and problem-solving, deciding how to approach a problem, spotting patterns and persevering to find solutions. Our Concrete, Pictorial and Abstract approach helps children develop a deep understanding of maths. New concepts begin with real objects – perhaps toys, counters or twigs – before moving to pictures and then to numbers and symbols. By experiencing each stage, children understand the maths behind a method rather than simply learning what to do.

A WORLD OF DISCOVERY

Strong foundations in reading, writing and maths sit within a much broader educational experience. Science, computing, languages, music, drama, art, sport and outdoor learning give children opportunities to explore new interests, develop their talents and experience learning in different ways.

“The curriculum is broad, balanced and inclusive.” ISI Inspection 2026

SCIENCE – Learning by Doing A passion for science begins with curiosity – noticing what is happening, asking why and having the confidence to test an idea. In Lower School, science is carefully taught through engaging lessons and workshops, with plenty of opportunities for practical, hands-on learning. Investigations and Discovery Afternoons give children the time and freedom to explore ideas more deeply, make connections and put their learning into practice. From growing and observing plants and exploring habitats outdoors to investigating materials, learning about animals and humans, experimenting with forces and tackling STEAM – Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Maths – challenges, children experience science first-hand. They learn to observe closely, ask questions, make predictions, carry out tests and explain what they notice – discovering along the way that science can be surprising, exciting and sometimes gloriously messy. This balance of thoughtful teaching and open-ended enquiry builds strong scientific knowledge while nurturing curiosity, resilience and problem-solving skills. Most importantly, it gives children the confidence to explore, question and think like scientists providing strong foundations for the increasingly sophisticated scientific enquiry children encounter as they move to Upper School.

“In Year 2, science lessons are always exciting. The children might be asked to think about what Paddington’s jacket should be made from to protect him from the rain. They have fun predicting which materials are waterproof and testing out their ideas.” Shaun Hornsby, Year 2 Teacher

“The children love discovering what they can make happen with technology – whether they’re programming an Indi Car, creating an animation or solving a coding challenge. It’s wonderful to see their confidence grow as they realise what they can do.” Gordon Cookson, Lower School Computing Teacher

COMPUTING – Creating with Technology Technology is woven into learning across the Lower School, giving children exciting new ways to explore, create, research and solve problems. ClassVR headsets can transport a class under the sea, through a rainforest, to the moon or back in time, bringing topics to life through immersive experiences. From Reception, children begin developing their digital literacy using iPads and desktop computers, building confidence with touch-screen, keyboard and mouse skills alongside age-appropriate creative apps. Indi Cars introduce the principles of coding through practical challenges, while Busy Things and Purple Mash support learning and creativity across subjects including English and maths. In Years 1 and 2, children build on these early skills in weekly Computing lessons with a specialist teacher in our dedicated IT suite. They use technology to research, create and animate, and begin coding with ScratchJr, developing logical thinking, creativity and problem-solving skills along the way. Learning how to use technology safely and responsibly is just as important as learning what it can do. Online safety is embedded from the beginning, helping children develop positive habits and the confidence to navigate an increasingly digital world.

“At this age, learning a language should be something children really enjoy. They love joining in with songs, games and conversation, and it’s lovely to see how quickly they become confident using new words and phrases.” Sam Stubberfield, Head of Languages

LANGUAGES – Opening up the World Learning another language from an early age introduces children to new sounds, words and cultures, while developing their confidence as communicators. In Reception, children enjoy weekly French lessons with a specialist teacher, exploring familiar and exciting themes through stories, songs, games and conversation. They build their vocabulary and begin using simple words and phrases with increasing confidence. In Years 1 and 2, children learn both French and Spanish in alternate half terms. Listening and speaking remain at the heart of lessons, with writing gradually introduced as children progress. Through lively, interactive teaching and cultural experiences, children begin to make connections between languages and develop an appreciation of the wider world.

MUSIC, DRAMA & ART – Creativity from the Start Creativity is an important part of everyday life in the Lower School, giving children opportunities to express themselves, experiment with ideas and discover new interests. Music begins from the earliest years, with children learning through singing, rhythm, movement, listening and performance. Reception children enjoy music with a familiar Early Years specialist, while in Years 1 and 2 lessons are taught by our specialist Music teacher. In Year 2, children also begin learning the recorder, adding an exciting first whole-class instrumental experience. Drama develops imagination, communication and confidence. Through storytelling, role play, improvisation and performance, children learn to express ideas, work with others and become comfortable speaking in front of an audience. Performance is part of Lower School life too, from class assemblies to our much-loved Nativity productions, with each year group from Nursery to Year 2 taking to the stage in their own production. Art gives children the freedom to explore, make and create. Through drawing, painting, modelling and other practical projects, they experiment with different materials and techniques while developing their own ideas and artistic skills. Art also connects naturally with STEAM, where creativity combines with science, technology, engineering and maths through designing, building and problem-solving.

“Specialist teaching and resourcing in areas such as art, drama, music, physical education (PE), French, Spanish and Mandarin encourage pupils’ individual interests and self-motivation.” ISI Inspection 2026

“Through the PE curriculum, pupils gain a broad range of physical skills and this supports their physical and mental health well.” ISI Inspection 2026

SPORT & SWIMMING – Confidence through Movement Being active is an important part of every child’s week at Chinthurst. From the earliest years, children develop the movement skills, confidence and enjoyment that can inspire a lifelong love of sport. From Reception to Year 2, children enjoy a weekly PE lesson, double Games lesson and swimming lesson in our onsite pool. Through gymnastics, athletics, invasion games and ball skills, they develop coordination, balance and agility, while learning to play, cooperate and work as part of a team. Lessons combine expert coaching with plenty of opportunities to practise, play and challenge themselves. The emphasis is not simply on sporting ability, but on helping every child experience the enjoyment of being active while developing resilience, teamwork and determination.

DISCOVERY AFTERNOONS – Time to Explore Every Wednesday, the Lower School timetable opens into an extended Discovery Afternoon: a carefully planned programme of practical learning in which children have the time and freedom to investigate, create, collaborate and persevere. It’s a distinctive part of our curriculum, designed to deepen learning while developing independence, confidence, communication and problem-solving. Across the year, children rotate through four connected strands: Forest and Exploration; Gardening and Sustainability; Creative Studio and Cookery; and STEAM and Innovation. Each strand has a clear purpose and progression, whether children are exploring the natural world, caring for the garden, preparing food, working with materials or designing and testing a solution. These sustained, hands-on experiences help children regulate themselves, strengthen physical skills, take sensible risks, learn from mistakes and become resourceful, responsible learners. Discovery Afternoons are eagerly anticipated because children are active participants in their learning and often uncover interests and talents that might otherwise remain hidden.

“Discovery Afternoons give the children something that feels increasingly rare – uninterrupted time to really get absorbed in practical learning. Whether they’re exploring the woodland, growing and cooking, creating something or testing out an idea, they have the freedom to follow their curiosity, work things out together and discover what they’re capable of.” Toni Burton Head of Lower School

WELLBEING AT HEART

Children learn best when they feel happy, safe and understood, which is why wellbeing sits at the heart of life at Chinthurst. Strong relationships come first. Our teachers know their children well, notice when something isn’t quite right and always make time to listen. Sometimes a child doesn’t quite know how to start a conversation. Our simple ‘bubble’ system gives them a quiet way to let their teacher know they would like some time with them – and that request is always prioritised. Children are also taught how to recognise and talk about their emotions through our whole-school Zones of Regulation approach. A daily Mindful Minute creates a moment of calm in the school day, while our welcoming Wellbeing Room and much-loved wellbeing dog, Scout, provide additional comfort and support when children need it. Kindness is part of everyday life too – in the classroom, on the playground and in the way children look after one another. By helping children understand themselves, build positive relationships and know that there is always someone ready to listen, we give them the security to enjoy school and flourish.

“Pupils’ emotional wellbeing lies at the heart of this nurturing, inclusive school.” ISI Inspection 2026

ADVENTURES BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

Learning does not stop when lessons finish. Our varied programme of clubs gives even our youngest children the chance to try something new, discover interests and develop new skills, all while having fun with friends. With a mix of free and paid-for activities, tailored to different age groups and changing each term, there is always something new to explore. Trips, workshops and special visitors bring learning to life too. Reception children might explore the world of work through Little City, visit Bocketts Farm or welcome firefighters and a real fire engine to school. In Years 1 and 2, experiences range from visits to Gatton Park, Leeds Castle, Wisley Gardens and Drusillas Park to immersive theatre workshops linked to classroom topics.

“Pupils’ learning is enriched through the programme of trips, clubs and activities which extends pupils’ interests and allows them to develop new skills.” ISI Inspection 2026

THE CHINTHURST COMMUNITY

A PARTNERSHIP WITH PARENTS The warmth and sense of belonging at Chinthurst extends beyond the classroom. From the moment a family joins us, they become part of a friendly, welcoming community where close relationships between home and school are at the heart of each child’s experience. Our teachers are approachable and accessible, with everyday conversations at drop-off and pick-up, regular Parents’ Evenings and updates through Seesaw helping parents feel connected to their child’s learning, progress and experiences at school. By working closely together, we create a genuine partnership with families and ensure every child feels known, supported and happy throughout their time in the Lower School.

THE CHINTHURST PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION Our Chinthurst Parents’ Association (CPA) brings families together through social events, celebrations and fundraising. For families joining Reception in particular, it’s a lovely way to meet other parents and quickly feel part of school life.

MAKING FAMILY LIFE EASIER

We know school life needs to work for the whole family. Our wraparound care offers children a familiar, relaxed environment with staff they know, while giving families the flexibility they need. Breakfast Club is available from 7.30 am, with free Morning Care from 8.00am. At the end of the school day, free Sibling Care is available from 3.30 – 4.00 pm for Nursery to Year 2 children with a sibling in Upper School, allowing the whole family to be collected together when the Upper School day finishes. Children can also take part in our programme of afterschool clubs or enjoy Aftercare, where there is time for activities, a hot tea and relaxed play with friends. Aftercare runs until 6.0 0 pm Monday to Thursday and 5.00 pm on Fridays, giving families added flexibility. During the school holidays, Camp Beaumont also runs holiday camps for children aged three and above on the Chinthurst site, offering families a convenient and familiar option beyond term time.

READY FOR WHAT COMES NEXT By the end of Year 2, children have travelled a long way from those first exciting days in Reception. They have built strong academic foundations, discovered new interests and grown in confidence and independence. They understand that mistakes are part of learning, that challenges can be overcome and that kindness matters. They move into Upper School ready for the next stage of their Chinthurst journey — still excited by learning, curious about the world around them and eager to discover what comes next.

“Pupils develop academically, personally and socially and are well prepared for the lifetime of learning ahead of them.” ISI Inspection 2026

SAMPLE EXTRACURRICULAR PROGRAMME

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

121 Cricket All

12.30 – 13.00

LAMDA Y1

LAMDA Y2

15.25 –16.25

Kindi Construction Club Kindergarten Tiny TKD Taekwondo Y1& 2

Mini Hitters Cricket Kindergarten & Reception

12.25 – 12.55 Lunchtime

Yoga Buds Y1& 2

15.30 –16.00

Ballet Reception – Y2

Drawing & Craft Club Reception – Y2

Little Voices Choir Y1& 2

Tap Dancing Reception – Y2 Playball Reception – Y2 Tennis Y1& 2

15.45 –16.15 After School

Rising Stars Cricket Y1& 2

15.30 –16.30

Mindfulness Club Reception – Y2

Board Games Club Reception – Y2

Fine Motor Club Reception – Y2

Sketching & Colouring Club Reception – Y2 Lego Club Reception – Y2 Ballet Reception – Y2

16.00 –16.30

16.00 –17.00

Orchestra All (invitation only)

08.25– 08.30

Morning Registration

Swimming / Handwriting

Literacy

Maths

09.00–09.45 Explore & Learn

PSHEE /PSED

Literacy

Swimming / Handwriting

Music

Explore & Learn

MFL

Literacy

11.15–11.45

10.25–11.15

Drama

2 12.30–13.05 Lunch Break

12.10–12.30 Handwriting & Spelling

11.45–12.10 Lunch

10.00–10.25

Morning Break

09.45–10.00

Assembly/Form Time

1 13.05–13.10 Afternoon Registration

RA Timetable

Maths

Literacy

Discovery Afternoon

Computing

Explore & Learn

13.10–14.00

4 14.00–14.10 Afternoon Break

RECEPTION SAMPLE TIMETABLE

08.30– 09.00

Read Write Inc. Phonics

Church Assembly

Discovery Afternoon

Explore & Learn

EAD /UW

Explore & Learn

14.45–15.20

14.10–14.45

Games

15.20–15.30 Form Time /De-registration

08.25– 08.30

Morning Registration

English

Maths

English

Maths

English

09.00–09.45

Swimming / Handwriting

English

Maths

Music

Maths

11.15–12.05

10.25–11.15

2 12.05–13.05 Lunch Break

10.00–10.25

Morning Break

09.45–10.00

Assembly/Form Time

1 13.05–13.10 Afternoon Registration

1A Timetable

Drama

STEAM Workshop

Discovery Afternoon

Topic

13.10–14.00

4 14.00–14.10 Afternoon Break

YEAR 1 SAMPLE TIMETABLE

08.30– 09.00

Read Write Inc. Phonics

Church Assembly

Maths

MFL

Discovery Afternoon

Topic

Golden Time

STEAM Workshop

PSHEE

Computing

14.45–15.20

14.10–14.45

Games

15.20–15.30 Form Time /De-registration

08.25– 08.30

Morning Registration

English

Maths

English

09.00–09.45

Maths

Music

English

11.15–12.05

10.25–11.15

Maths

2 12.05–13.05 Lunch Break

10.00–10.25

Morning Break

09.45–10.00

Assembly/Form Time

1 13.05–13.10 Afternoon Registration

2B Timetable

Swimming / Handwriting

Computing

Discovery Afternoon

Topic

Drama

13.10–14.00

4 14.00–14.10 Afternoon Break

YEAR 2 SAMPLE TIMETABLE

08.30– 09.00

Read Write Inc. Phonics

Church Assembly

Swimming / Handwriting

Discovery Afternoon

Topic

Golden Time

STEAM Workshop

PSHEE

MFL

14.45–15.20

14.10–14.45

Games

15.20–15.30 Form Time /De-registration

Academic Excellence, Powered by Heart.

Chinthurst School, Tadworth Street, Tadworth, Surrey KT20 5QZ 01737 812 011 | admissions@chinthurstschool.co.uk www.chinthurstschool.co.uk ChinthurstSchool chinthurst.school