In September, we were excited to announce that our Prep school had been selected as an ‘Independent Prep School of the Year’ finalist in the 2024 Independent Schools of the Year Awards. As one of just seven finalists chosen from independent schools across the country, it was a huge accolade!
The award application process delved into all areas of school life, including our new 4D Curriculum, which embraces a wide range of social and environmental themes – encouraging an early awareness of diversity, inclusivity and sustainability. Our 4D Curriculum also reflects the central values of Round Square: Internationalism, Democracy, Environmentalism, Adventure, Leadership and Service. Inspirational topics – each lasting a term – run across the whole of the Prep School, allowing for the sharing of experiences and assemblies. Pupils enjoy projects based on real-life scenarios, making links between subjects and themes, and building their understanding of the world around them. Read more about the 4D Curriculum in action.
Complementing and extending our Prep curriculum is an extensive Enrichment Programme. Pupils choose from many different activities: horse riding, engineering, chess and interior design, to name just a few. Forest School sessions offer plenty of freedom and opportunities for 4D learning too. Our passionate and highly experienced Forest School Leader, Mrs Norris, has devised a varied programme of activities for children from Little Aviators through to Year 6. Having access to an outdoor environment that promotes independence, self-esteem, creativity and confidence is an essential element of the provision at Kingsley. We see first-hand how outdoor learning positively impacts pupils’ social and language skills, motivation and concentration, as well as developing their physical capabilities and connection to nature.
Sport and music are also highly valued at Kingsley. From an early age, pupils receive specialist PE teaching and are encouraged to try a wide variety of sporting disciplines, leading to a genuine love of sport and success in netball, rounders, tennis, skiing, martial arts, gymnastics and rugby. The school also has a long and successful history of competing in equestrian events. For young musicians, there are multiple opportunities to learn and perform with others in string ensembles, orchestras and choirs. Gifted musicians are invited to play in one of the Foundation ensembles, alongside pupils from Warwick School and King’s High School.
On reaching the award finals, Mrs Phillips, Head of Prep, commented, “We feel very honoured to be included in the list of finalists! At Kingsley Prep, student experience is always top of the agenda. We’re passionate about providing wide-ranging opportunities, both inside and outside the classroom, that enable children to develop confidence and character, learn skills for life and find their passions. Our bespoke 4D Curriculum encourages innovation, personal development and creative thinking, and we see the benefits of our approach every day. Our kind and caring community of dedicated staff, enthusiastic pupils and supportive parents is central to all we do.”
Dr Howling, Headteacher added, “I’m incredibly proud of our fabulous Prep School, under the outstanding leadership of Mrs Phillips. Being announced as a finalist is a tremendous achievement, and we are all excited to be recognised at such a prestigious level.”
