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Prep School

Stepping towards independence

Transitioning from Pre-Prep to Prep School marks an exciting milestone for our pupils. It is a time when they begin to grow in confidence and take strides towards independence. Embracing new challenges, they are encouraged to become independent learners, taking responsibility for their work routines and learning how to navigate our senior school timetable style.

At Salcombe Prep School on Chase Side, each pupil’s journey signifies an exciting step towards independence and preparation for senior school. Pupils navigate the school to their timetabled lessons, mirroring the learning style of senior school, including having a form teacher who is responsible for their pastoral care.

Additionally, they are taught by subject specialists throughout the day. This approach not only fosters a positive mindset for each lesson but also nurtures confidence and responsibility, ensuring pupils arrive promptly with the correct materials - a life skill everyone needs.

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A curriculum enriched by subject specialist teachers

Challenging curriculum

In Year 3, we transition from the National Curriculum to the ISEB curriculum, marking a pivotal moment in our pupils' development.

This prepares them for the challenges of the 11+ process, building the confidence needed to succeed.

Critical thinking skills

We aim to broaden horizons and develop critical thinking skills, offering ample opportunities for personal growth and leadership. Our curriculum, enriched by subject specialist teachers, inspires pupils to explore, think critically, and pursue their interests, fostering a lifelong love for learning. We encourage making mistakes as valuable learning opportunities, ensuring our children are not afraid to take risks and grow from their experiences.

A broader curriculum

Immersive learning in our designated areas, such as our Science Lab and Art Studio, makes subjects more engaging and memorable. These specialised areas create hands-on exploration, enhancing critical thinking and creativity. By immersing pupils in real-world settings, we ignite a passion for learning and connect theory to practice.

PSHE

PSHE (Personal, Social, Health, and Economic Education) lessons provide a platform for pupils to explore their increasing levels of responsibility, guided and supported by their teachers. It is a safe place for them to explore their feelings and share any worries or concerns.

Digital Learning

From Year 3, each pupil receives their own personal 1-to-1 device, allowing lessons to blend traditional pen-and-paper methods with digital learning experiences through programs like Century Tech and Learning by Questions.

This seamless integration of offline and online learning enables collaboration and productivity, fostering engagement and interpersonal skills essential for the future.

At Salcombe Prep, we maintain a balanced approach to technology, using it to complement traditional teaching while monitoring screen time and providing lessons on internet safety.

Learn more
Prep School Subjects
  • Art
  • Computing
  • English
  • Geography
  • History
  • Maths
  • Modern Foreign Languages
  • Music
  • PSHE
  • Physical Education
  • Reading and Comprehension
  • Religious Education and Philosophy
  • Science
  • Speaking and Listening
  • Spelling and Vocabulary
  • Study Skills
  • Verbal and Non-Verbal reasoning
  • Writing

Personalised Learning: Empowering learning at Salcombe Prep

For pupils beginning their Salcombe Prep journey at the Prep stage of their education, our focus is on addressing any learning gaps to ensure a confident and seamless start.

We recognise that every pupil learns at their own pace and possesses unique abilities compared to their peers. That's why we are committed to tailoring our teaching methods to meet the individual needs of each pupil. By emphasising their strengths, offering support where needed, and fostering self-belief, we empower every pupil to succeed and thrive.

``Pupils make rapid progress in their understanding and use of vocabulary, and in their descriptive writing and creative skills``.

– ISI Inspection Report 2023

PREP CURRICULUM

Learning beyond the classroom

At Salcombe Prep, education goes beyond the classroom. Through engaging teaching and a wide range of extra-curricular and co-curricular activities, we bring subjects to life.

Whether this be a themed day, a field trip, or a workshop, hands-on experiences and immersive learning spark imagination and enrich classroom learning.

Our aim is to instil a lifelong love for learning, preparing our pupils not just for exams but for the challenges of the future.

11+ Preparation

Learn more about our 11+ Preparation
Leavers Destinations

11+ Preparing for life beyond Salcombe Prep

Our 11+ preparation programme is tailored to address the challenges of entrance examinations. We believe that subjecting our pupils to two years of intense study isn't in their best interest; instead, we advocate for a more beneficial approach to academic learning and well-being, beginning with laying the foundation from Year 1.

Exam techniques are refined through termly ISEB Assessments from Year 3 in core subjects, supplemented by annual online assessments, ensuring they feel confident and well-prepared.

With our close connection to pupils and their families, we strive to minimise stress during this critical period.

Extension Studies

In the Spring and Summer Term of Year 5, pupils are offered extension studies in English, Maths, Verbal, and Non-Verbal Reasoning as an optional part of our wrap-around care offering. These classes, which take place before school, provide an opportunity to begin preparation for entrance exams to independent secondary schools.

Designed to challenge and extend all children, these classes offer additional preparation for their 11+ examinations. This offering extends into the Autumn Term of Year 6 to support pupils during the entrance exam period.

Furthermore, during the Autumn Term, the Headmistress conducts Interview Skills classes for Year 6 pupils to assist them in preparation for interviews they may be invited to by their desired independent secondary school.

Homework, Feedback and Communication

A balanced approach to learning

Homework is an integral part of the curriculum at Salcombe Prep. Starting from Year 3, pupils receive a maximum of two pieces of homework each night, along with reading.

Year 3, pupils are typically assigned 30 minutes of homework per subject per night, gradually increasing to 60 minutes per subject per night by Year 6.

While optional holiday homework is available for pupils who want to engage in additional work during school breaks, it is not compulsory, although it is recommended for those pupils working towards their 11+ exams. All our pupils are encouraged to stay informed about the world around them, whether through extra-curricular activities or by following current affairs.

Feedback is an ongoing process at Salcombe Prep. Pupils are continually assessed using various methods including, but not limited to, tests, exams, classwork and behaviour. Form teachers gather feedback from all subject teachers to gain a comprehensive '360°', view of each pupil.

Reports are produced every term, and Parent-Teacher Conferences are held twice a year, in the Autumn and Spring Terms, providing opportunities for parents and teachers to discuss the pupils' progress and address any concerns.

Wraparound care

After School Care

For families juggling busy schedules, we understand the importance of reliable after-school care. At Salcombe Prep, we offer wraparound care from 8am to 6.15pm during term time, providing support for all our parents. Activities can be conveniently booked termly through your personal Cognita Connect account, allowing you to customise care to fit your family's needs.

Holiday Club

Even during school holidays, we recognise the ongoing need for childcare. Each holiday, Salcombe Prep welcomes the 'Smart Play' holiday club to our school, offering care for pupils from Reception to Year 6, across selected dates throughout the holiday periods. The provider's holiday programmes feature themed days with a plethora of age-appropriate, challenging, and stimulating educational activities.

Prep snapshot

Prep ages 7-11:

  • Small class sizes which enable personal attention

  • Strong varied, enriched curriculum delivering practical and creative lessons

  • Focus on 11+ programme, with additional support outside the curriculum

  • Specialist teaching across a range of subjects

  • Digital learning lessons and collaborations

  • Personalised learning approach

  • Senior school style timetable learning approach

  • 1-to-1 devices for all children

  • Outstanding pastoral care instilling confidence and determination

  • An embedded culture of wellbeing across the school

  • Dedicated preparation and support for senior school and scholarship applications

  • Freshly made, nutritionally balanced hot lunches

Where your child’s educational path to excellence begins

Children who join Salcombe Prep develop their confidence and gain a genuine love for learning, starting them on the path to success.

Your child's learning journey
...
Pre-School

3 - 4 yrs old

...
Pre-Prep

5 - 7 yrs old

...
Prep

7 - 11 yrs old

Discover a Salcombe Prep education

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Salcombe Preparatory School