Starting Reception is a milestone in your child’s education, and choosing the right school can feel like a big decision. Catherine Bartholomew, Assistant Head Teacher for EYFS and KS1 and Reception Teacher at Edenhurst Preparatory School, shares what sets Edenhurst apart and how the school supports busy families.
What will my child learn in Reception?
In Reception, our main priority is to make the first school year both enjoyable and productive. We follow a structured programme, which focuses on creating a personal education for each child. There are still plenty of opportunities for play and exploration!
What specialist subjects are part of the curriculum?
Reception children enjoy lessons in French, Art, Music, ICT, P.E., and Swimming, all led by specialist teachers who are experts in their fields.
What about class sizes?
With average class sizes of around 12-16 children, Edenhurst offers a very advantageous pupil-to-adult ratio. This allows us to truly get to know and nurture your child’s unique strengths and interests, and areas where they might need more support.
Do you organise trips and visits?
Yes! Our school calendar is packed with trips and visits. Each one of these is carefully selected and planned to bring learning to life and to open the children’s minds to the world beyond the classroom. The variety and range of visits include local museums and galleries, theatres, outdoor and field study centres, as well as farms and zoos.
Is outdoor learning part of the programme?
Through our Eco School activities and “Forest Fridays,” children regularly engage in hands-on outdoor learning. We even have our own onsite school allotment!
How do you approach P.E. and sports?
At Edenhurst, we place a strong emphasis on health and fitness outside the classroom. Our specialist sports teachers encourage all children to try a variety of activities to find something they enjoy. Edenhurst’s sports facilities, including an AstroTurf pitch, provide plenty of space for active play and skill-building.
What extra-curricular activities are available?
Edenhurst offers a range of clubs, from Drama, Dance, and Chess to Coding, Skiing, and Music. Our School Council and Eco Council are popular too, along with many sports clubs.
How does Edenhurst introduce and support musical education?
From Reception onwards, pupils at Edenhurst receive class music lessons, taught by our experienced music specialist teacher. Peripatetic music teaching is also available for a wide range of musical instruments and pupils are encouraged to take ABRSM graded exams. Whether learning to play an instrument, performing or developing musical theory skills, every pupil is enriched by Edenhurst’s unique musical experience.
What performance opportunities does Edenhurst offer?
Children at Edenhurst benefit from regular opportunities to perform including our class plays, Christmas nativity service, Carol Service and annual Spring Concert, boosting their self-confidence and preparing them for future academic challenges.
Do you offer holiday and wraparound care?
Yes! During school holidays, Reception children can attend our Edventures Holiday Club, which offers themed activities tailored to different age groups. We also provide quality before- and after-school care from 7:30 am to 6:00 pm, included in the school fees.
What was your latest inspection rating?
In our most recent ISI educational quality inspection, Edenhurst was awarded “EXCELLENT” across all areas. Additionally, our Early Years provision received an “OUTSTANDING” rating for the third time in a row.
What is included in your fees?
At Edenhurst, our fees are inclusive of VAT, lunches and wraparound care. We also offer an interest-free monthly payment option, making budgeting easier for families.
How can I learn more?
To learn more about applying for Reception 2025, contact our Admissions Officer, Mrs. Clair Wardle, at 01782 619348, email admissions@edenhurst.co.uk or book a personalised visit on our website.
We look forward to welcoming you to Edenhurst!
Categories: Reception School Blogs
