UPPER SCHOOL AT CHINTHURST (Years 3–6)
Academic Excellence, Powered by Heart.
“Pupils develop academically, personally and socially and are well prepared for the lifetime of learning ahead of them.” ISI Inspection 2026
WELCOME FROM THE HEAD
H
ere at Chinthurst, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to discover just how much they are capable of. For us, academic excellence is about far more than strong results. It’s about nurturing curiosity, building confidence and inspiring children to aim high. We know children achieve their best when they feel happy, secure and genuinely known by the adults around them. That’s why everything we do is powered by heart. Strong relationships are at the centre of a Chinthurst education. They give children the confidence to ask questions, make mistakes and try again, while enabling our teachers to know when to challenge, support or inspire each individual child. In the Upper School, high expectations and genuine care go hand in hand. Our broad and ambitious curriculum challenges children to think deeply, solve problems and become increasingly independent, while specialist teaching helps them discover talents and interests of their own. As part of the Reigate Grammar School family, we also benefit from the strength of a wider educational community, while retaining the warmth, individuality and close relationships that make Chinthurst so special. As children progress through Upper School, we prepare them for senior school with the confidence, resilience and kindness to embrace the opportunities ahead.
This is Academic Excellence, Powered by Heart. Cathy Trundle Headteacher
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE, POWERED BY HEART “Leaders actively promote a culture of aspiration and high achievement for all.” ISI Inspection 2026 At Chinthurst, academic excellence is not about pressure or simply achieving strong results. It’s about giving every child the confidence, curiosity and ambition to discover just how much they are capable of. We combine academic rigour with genuine care. Expert teaching, high expectations and an ambitious curriculum ensure children are challenged, while small classes and strong relationships allow learning to be shaped around the individual.
PERSONALISED LEARNING Every child learns differently. Because our teachers know the children so well, they understand their strengths, interests and needs, adapting learning to provide the right balance of support and challenge. Children are stretched at the right time, supported when they need it and encouraged to become increasingly independent. The result is confident, capable learners who are willing to have a go, resilient enough to try again and ambitious for what they might achieve.
“Pupils develop academically, personally and socially and are well prepared for the lifetime of learning ahead of them.” ISI Inspection 2026
“Pupils are keen to learn and are typically engaged during lessons.” ISI Inspection 2026
PUTTING THE FUN INTO LEARNING At Chinthurst, academic ambition and enjoyment go hand in hand. Children learn best when they are engaged, challenged and having fun. School days are full of exciting experiences, both inside the classroom and outdoors – there is always something new to discover. Lessons are lively and practical, encouraging curiosity, creativity and independent thinking. Educational visits, residentials, focus days and visiting experts add further richness and connect learning with the wider world. Above all, children look forward to coming to school, where enthusiasm and a love of learning become powerful foundations for life.
“The curriculum is broad, balanced and inclusive.” ISI Inspection 2026
AN AMBITIOUS & BROAD CURRICULUM Academic excellence begins with a curriculum that inspires curiosity and develops deep understanding. English, mathematics, science, computing and the humanities remain at the heart of Upper School learning, while specialist teaching in art and design technology, drama, French, Spanish, Mandarin, music, computing, PE and games brings expertise, passion and fresh perspectives. Children build strong foundations before progressing to increasingly sophisticated concepts. Across subjects, they are encouraged to question, reason, create, communicate and solve problems, developing the skills and mindset they will need at senior school and beyond.
“Pupils are supported to grow and flourish.” ISI Inspection 2026
The breadth of the curriculum also gives every child opportunities to discover what excites them. Academic success may begin with a fascination for numbers or words, but equally with a musical instrument, a sporting challenge, a piece of art, a new language or an idea brought to life through technology.
INSPIRATIONAL TEACHING Great teaching is at the heart of academic excellence at Chinthurst. Our teachers and teaching assistants combine expertise with warmth, kindness, energy and a sense of fun, creating an environment where children feel confident and excited to learn. Because they know the children so well, they understand when to support, when to challenge and how to help each child flourish.
PREPARATION FOR LIFE “Pupils are respectful, kind and accepting of others’ cultures and beliefs. This is a significant strength of the school.” ISI Inspection 2026 Education at Chinthurst is about preparing children not only for their next school, but for the lifetime of learning ahead of them. Alongside knowledge and academic skills, children need confidence, resilience, empathy, creativity and the ability to think independently. They need to communicate well, collaborate with others, make considered decisions and respond positively when things do not go according to plan. These qualities are developed throughout Upper School life. Children are encouraged to persevere when learning becomes difficult, to listen to other perspectives and to have the courage to contribute their own ideas.
Our culture of kindness, respect and inclusion underpins this development. Everyone is welcome and everyone belongs. Children learn that differences should be understood and valued, and that they each have a responsibility to contribute positively to the community around them. The 2026 ISI inspection recognised this culture as a Significant Strength, highlighting pupils’ highly developed understanding of difference, inclusion and belonging. Through assemblies, lessons, the House system, leadership, charity work and everyday interactions, children learn that character matters just as much as achievement.
WELLBEING AT HEART Wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do - in the way every child is known, supported and cared for each day. Children who feel safe, valued and understood have the confidence to learn, flourish and achieve.
“Pupils’ emotional wellbeing lies at the heart of this nurturing, inclusive school.” ISI Inspection 2026
Growing up brings challenges, changes and inevitable ups and downs. Our role is not to shield children from these experiences, but to give them the tools, relationships and self-belief to navigate them with confidence. Our dedicated Wellbeing at Heart programme brings this to life every day, with support ranging from Zones of Regulation and Mindful Minutes to our Wellbeing Room, Peer Mentors and Mediators, ELSA support, our school counsellor and Scout, our much-loved wellbeing dog.
GROWING AS LEADERS As children progress through Upper School, opportunities for responsibility grow. In Year 5, children train as Peer Mediators, supporting younger children and promoting friendship and kindness. By Year 6, every child takes on a position of responsibility and also trains as a Peer Mentor, developing the skills to listen, support and care for others. Leadership at Chinthurst is about more than wearing a badge – it’s about responsibility, kindness and making a positive difference.
“Leaders encourage pupils to take on roles of responsibility such as peer mediation and peer mentoring.” ISI Inspection 2026
THE CHINTHURST SPIRIT Children at Chinthurst are encouraged to have a voice, share their ideas and understand that they can make a positive difference. Whether through our School Council, Eco Committee, House system, peer mentoring and mediation, charity fundraising or the Year 6 Business Enterprise project, children have many opportunities to listen to others, take responsibility and turn ideas into action. These experiences build confidence, creativity, teamwork and resilience, helping children become increasingly independent and ready for what comes next. We proudly call this the Chinthurst Spirit.
“Pupils develop firm foundations regarding core skills in reading, writing and mathematics.” ISI Inspection 2026
AN AMBITIOUS CURRICULUM When children enter Year 3, they move into Morris House, home to the Upper School, and begin Key Stage 2, building on the strong foundations established in Lower School. As an independent school, we have the freedom to develop and enrich the curriculum beyond the national framework. This allows us to introduce greater breadth, creativity and challenge while responding to each child’s strengths and interests.
MATHEMATICS Our aim is to develop fluent, confident mathematicians who enjoy working with numbers and are willing to tackle a challenge. Lessons combine strong mathematical foundations with reasoning and creative problem-solving. Children are encouraged to discuss and explain their thinking, work collaboratively, compare different approaches and understand not only how an answer is reached, but why. Practical resources help make abstract concepts meaningful, while increasingly challenging problems develop perseverance and flexible thinking. Mistakes are valued as part of learning. Children discover that getting stuck is not a reason to give up – it’s often where the most interesting learning begins.
“Pupils are supported to show curiosity, ask questions and learn from their mistakes.”
“We build strong arithmetic and mental maths skills, while giving children plenty of strategies for tackling problems. This develops their speed and accuracy and gives them the confidence to take on more challenging maths.”
ISI Inspection 2026
Mr Thomson, Maths Lead
ENGLISH “When children are excited by writing, their imagination really takes off. That’s when you see their creativity, critical thinking and confidence begin to grow.” Gordon Cookson, English Lead English at Chinthurst develops confident, imaginative communicators who enjoy expressing their ideas and discovering the power of language. In the Upper School, children explore a wide range of high-quality texts and genres, using discussion and creative ‘hooks’ to spark ideas before developing their own writing. Through our Talk for Writing approach, they learn how effective writing is structured and how vocabulary and language can be used with increasing skill and flair. Speaking and listening are an important part of every lesson, helping children organise their thoughts, articulate their ideas and grow in confidence. As they progress, they become increasingly independent writers, able to adapt their style and communicate effectively for different purposes and audiences.
READING A love of reading opens the door to new ideas, knowledge and worlds. Children are encouraged to read widely and for pleasure, while developing strong comprehension and critical-thinking skills. They learn to explore meaning, make inferences, consider an author’s choices and discuss different interpretations with confidence. Our fantastic library is at the heart of reading at Chinthurst. Regular library time gives children the chance to discover new books, follow their own interests or simply enjoy some quiet time with a good book. Upper School children also enjoy reading to younger children, while author visits and celebrations such as World Book Day bring the whole school together through a shared love of reading.
COMPUTING & STEAM Computing in the Upper School is practical, imaginative and full of opportunities to experiment. Children build their technical skills through coding, programming and digital design, learning to solve problems, test ideas and persevere when things don’t work first time. Children programme Sphero Bolt+ robots, create stop-motion animations, explore learning through VR and use TinkerCAD and 3D printers to bring their designs to life. They also experiment with Makey Makey kits, combining technology with creative problem-solving. Technology also supports learning across the curriculum. Children use iPads throughout the Upper School, progressing to Surface Go laptops in Years 5 and 6 as they develop the digital skills they need for senior school and beyond.
“Computing empowers children to become creators rather than consumers of technology, developing creativity, confidence and critical-thinking skills.” Kate Gilmore, Computing Lead
SCIENCE Science comes to life through investigation and discovery. Children learn to observe closely, make predictions, test their ideas and use evidence to understand how and why things happen. Upper School children enjoy a double Science lesson each week in our well-equipped Science Lab. From exploring peristalsis to dissecting hearts, children learn by doing. As they progress, they develop increasingly sophisticated scientific skills, using microscopes and specialist equipment, recording observations and, by Year 6, confidently planning, conducting and analysing their own investigations. Science Curriculum Days, visiting experts and educational trips extend learning beyond the lab, deepening understanding and inspiring children to keep questioning and discovering.
“Science should be something children remember with a smile. If they can smell it, touch it, squish it and investigate it for themselves, they won’t just understand Science – they’ll love it.” Ruth Reid, Science Lead
“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 FOR EVERY CHILD Our award-winning, inclusive approach to sport gives every child the freedom to discover what they enjoy, develop their skills and experience the confidence and sense of achievement that come from being active. Children choose their sports without traditional gender expectations, with boys and girls training and competing together. Expert coaching combines challenge with encouragement, enabling children of all abilities to make progress and enjoy taking part. PE broadens the experience through activities including athletics, basketball, gymnastics and swimming, while Multi-Sport Week, clubs and specialist coaching provide further opportunities to try something new and develop individual interests. Keen cricketers can also benefit from additional coaching through our onsite Cricket Academy.
COMPETITION THAT BUILDS CHARACTER Moving into Upper School brings the excitement of regular competitive sport. Children play football or netball, hockey or rugby, and cricket, developing their skills, tactical understanding and teamwork through training and match play. Every Upper School child has opportunities to represent Chinthurst, with regular fixtures complemented by swimming galas, cross-country and athletics events, as well as other competitive opportunities throughout the year. Children experience the pride of representing their school and working towards individual and shared goals. Competition teaches children how to respond positively to both success and disappointment, developing resilience, sportsmanship and determination. Effort, progress and personal achievement matter alongside results, helping children understand that every performance is an opportunity to learn and improve. Sports Days, House competitions and swimming galas bring the whole community together, combining healthy competition with friendship, encouragement and fun. Through sport, children learn to practise, persevere, support others and strive to do their best – lessons that extend far beyond the pitch.
ART & DESIGN TECHNOLOGY In Art, children are encouraged to have ideas, try things out and see where their creativity takes them. In our new purpose-designed Creative Arts Building, specialist teaching helps them explore different materials and techniques, develop their skills and grow in confidence as artists. Children explore drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics and sculpture, building their artistic knowledge and technical skills. By Year 6, they are ready for the much-loved Chinthurst self-portrait project, creating striking pieces that showcase their growing ability and individuality. Artwork is proudly displayed throughout the school, celebrating the imagination and achievements of our children.
“Specialist teaching and resourcing in areas such as art… encourage pupils’ individual interests and self-motivation.” ISI Inspection 2026
“95% of children entered for their most recent LAMDA exams achieved Distinctions. The results are fantastic, but the real joy is seeing their confidence grow and watching them discover just how much they are capable of.” Elandri StrickerTimmermans, Head of Drama & LAMDA Teacher
DRAMA Drama has its own place in the curriculum at Chinthurst, with specialist teaching and a dedicated home in our new Creative Arts Building. Children improvise, create characters, explore scripts and stories, rehearse together and experience the excitement of bringing a performance to life. Productions are a highlight of Upper School life, with every year group taking to the stage. In Year 5, children devise and create their own production, while the Year 6 production is a muchloved highlight of their final year at Chinthurst. Beyond lessons, children can choose individual LAMDA tuition in acting, public speaking and communication. Chinthurst is also a registered LAMDA examination centre, with 66% of children choosing to take part.
MUSIC Step into Chinthurst and, within minutes, you’ll hear music - it’s the heartbeat of our school. In the Upper School, specialist teaching brings music to life through singing, performing, composing and listening. Children develop their musicianship through instrumental experiences including violin, ukulele, keyboard and African djembe drumming, alongside music technology and composition. Music extends well beyond lessons. Children can join our award-winning choirs, orchestra and other ensembles, with many opportunities to perform throughout the year at concerts, festivals, productions and community events – from school assemblies to prestigious venues such as Battersea Arts Centre. Individual tuition is also a thriving part of musical life, with more than 165 lessons taking place each week. Specialist visiting teachers offer a wide range of instruments, giving children the opportunity to discover a new passion or develop their musical talents further.
“Learning music develops so many of the skills children need to thrive - concentration, memory, listening, problem-solving and perseverance. But just as importantly, making music brings enormous joy.” Laura Oldfield, Head of Music
LANGUAGES Languages come to life in the Upper School through specialist teaching, conversation, games, stories and cultural experiences. In Years 3 and 4, children learn both French and Spanish, developing their vocabulary, pronunciation and confidence in communicating, while discovering more about the countries and cultures behind the languages. In Years 5 and 6, children study French and Mandarin as part of their weekly timetable. Mandarin introduces a completely different language and writing system, with children exploring Pinyin, the four tones and Chinese characters alongside traditions, festivals and calligraphy. Language learning extends beyond the classroom too. Spanish and Mandarin clubs offer further opportunities to explore, while the Year 6 residential to France gives children the excitement of experiencing French language and culture first-hand - a much-loved highlight of their final year at Chinthurst.
“I believe languages should be an adventure. My ambition is for every child to leave Chinthurst eager to explore new cultures, willing to take risks and excited to communicate in another language.” Sam Stubberfield, Head of Languages
READY FOR SENIOR SCHOOL Choosing the right senior school is an important decision, and every child’s journey is different. At Chinthurst, conversations begin in Year 3, giving families plenty of time to explore their options. Our Future Schools Team gets to know each child’s strengths, interests and aspirations, providing thoughtful, individual guidance along the way. By Year 5, every child receives an early offer to either Reigate Grammar School or RGS Surrey Hills. Families wishing to explore other schools are equally well supported, with our dedicated 11+ Lead providing tailored preparation for entrance assessments, interviews and scholarship applications. In Year 6, our Senior School Ready programme goes beyond exam preparation, developing the independence, resilience and confidence children need to make a successful transition to senior school.
“The school prepares pupils well for… the transition to senior school.” ISI Inspection 2026
OUTSTANDING OUTCOMES
2026 Leavers
100% of leavers secured a senior school place
100% of leavers
received an offer from Reigate Grammar School or RGS Surrey Hills
100%
of 11+ applicants received an offer from their first-choice senior school Plus multiple scholarships across academic, sport, music, drama, art and chess.
LIFE AT CHINTHURST There’s always something happening beyond the classroom. A wideranging programme of clubs gives children plenty of opportunities to try something new, develop their interests and spend time doing what they love. From sport, chess and languages to music, creative arts and much more, the programme changes each term, keeping school life fresh and varied.
A SENSE OF BELONGING Our four Houses - Dragon, Griffin, Pegasus and Phoenix - bring children together across year groups and create a strong sense of belonging. House assemblies, charity events, quizzes, performing arts, sporting competitions and the much-loved Quest Day bring plenty of friendly rivalry, while Year 6 House Captains take pride in leading and encouraging others.
ADVENTURES BEYOND THE CLASSROOM Trips, visits and residentials bring learning to life and create some of the most memorable moments of Upper School. As children progress through the years, these experiences become increasingly adventurous, giving them opportunities to explore new places, spend time with friends and grow in independence.
“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
PART OF THE CHINTHURST COMMUNITY The warmth and sense of belonging at Chinthurst extend beyond the school day. Our active Chinthurst Parents’ Association brings families together through social events, celebrations and fundraising, helping to create the friendly, close-knit community that is such an important part of school life.
WRAPAROUND CARE We know school life needs to work for the whole family. Breakfast Club is available from 7.30 am, with free Morning Care from 8.00 am. After school, children can enjoy clubs or Aftercare, with activities, time with friends and a hot tea. Upper School children can also complete homework, spellings or reading. Aftercare runs until 6.00 pm Monday to Thursday and 5.00 pm on Fridays, giving families added flexibility.
HOLIDAY FUN During the holidays, Chinthurst is home to Camp Beaumont, offering action-packed holiday camps for children aged three and above. With a huge variety of indoor and outdoor activities and flexible booking options, it gives families another convenient option on the familiar Chinthurst site.
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M 08.25– 0 8.30
Reading/Problem Solving /Spelling /Times Tables
08.30– 0 8.50
Maths
English
Maths
Art
Maths
08.50–0 9.40
1
09.40–10.00
Assembly/Form Time
Drama
Maths
English
Art
MFL
Mandarin
English
Computing
11.15–12.05
10.25–11.15
English
3
2
English
6B Timetable
PE
PSHEE
Maths
Music
12.05 –12.55
4
12.55–13.50
Lunch Break
A DAY IN UPPER SCHOOL
Morning Registration Church
10.00–10.25
Morning Break
13.50–14.10
Afternoon Registration/Handwriting & Spelling
Games
Science
Computing
History
Games 15.00–15.50
14.10–15.00
Geography
6
5
RS Form Time /De-registration
15.50–16.00
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