Indoor and outdoor play-based learning remain an important part of the curriculum in Year 1 (as in Reception) but this is enhanced by the introduction of specialist lessons such as Handwriting, French and Swimming (which takes place in the pool at the Prep School). The children keenly anticipate these additions which signify an important part of their progression through the Pre-Prep.
Topics are based around a creative curriculum designed to stimulate, engage and foster the children’s interests. In the past, these have included Superheroes, Marvellous Me and The Great Outdoors. Planned activities encourage input and involvement from parents and the wider community where possible – popular examples are our Design and Technology projects and a visit from the Fire Service. Parent support is also encouraged for off-site trips which vary depending on the topic, and we try to take advantage of the many highlights on offer locally such as Cotswold Wildlife Park, Oxford Theatres and the Oxford Museum of Natural History.
In Year 2, the children enjoy a wide variety of topic work with their class teacher and Challenge groups encourage reasoning and exploration across English and Maths with WOW days such as Number Day and World Book Day. The children have specialist teaching in French, Music, Singing, Games and Swimming and enjoy the finale of a Swim Festival at the Prep pool.
Learning is extended beyond the classroom with a trip to Oxford’s covered market trip, allowing the children to explore the local surroundings whilst integrating Maths and money. Specialist visits, ranging from performance poetry with award winning poets to LEGO Engineers, are integrated into our creative curriculum along with activities such as Film making, Art (participating in the Young Art Oxford Competition), Gardening, British nature and wildlife. There is a Music Makers Ensemble and individual singing and instrumental lessons, with the opportunity to perform to an audience in assemblies. All the year group get a chance to shine in the Year 2 performance and the Christmas production at the Prep School when they work alongside Year 3. The importance of community is emphasized by initiatives such as the Gratitude Café and the Year 2 Swap and Buy Sale which supports local and national charities. Class assemblies are linked to learning and the Dragon’s values of Kindness, Courage and Respect.
