Pre-Prep Learning
Pre-Prep Introduction
Cokethorpe’s Pre-Prep offers a nurturing and stimulating environment for children in Reception, Year 1, and Year 2, laying the foundation for a lifelong love of learning. Our approach is rooted in the belief that every child is unique, and we pride ourselves on knowing each one personally. This enables our dedicated teaching staff to tailor their direction to suit individual learning styles, interests, and developmental needs, ensuring that every child is supported and challenged appropriately.
The curriculum at Cokethorpe Pre-Prep is distinguished by its exceptional breadth, encompassing a wide range of subjects that go far beyond the core areas of literacy and numeracy. Children are introduced to science, music, art, drama, computing, and languages from an early age, fostering curiosity and creativity across disciplines. This rich academic offering is complemented by a wide programme of sports and co-curricular clubs, which includes everything from football and gymnastics to woodland wellbeing and bead craft. These activities not only promote physical wellbeing but also encourage teamwork, resilience, and self-confidence.
Our beautiful outdoor spaces play a central role in the educational experience and are purposely integrated into our curriculum. The Pre-Prep benefits from access to woodlands, playing fields, and purpose-built outdoor learning areas. These spaces are used to inspire exploration and support outdoor learning, allowing children to engage with nature and develop a sense of environmental awareness.
Pre-Prep Classes
Cokethorpe Pre-Prep is made up of three classes; Reception, Year 1 and Year 2. Children begin their journey in the Reception Class where learning is carefully guided by the EYFS framework, with a strong emphasis on play, exploration, and the use of outdoor areas to support curiosity and creativity. As they move into Year 1, the transition introduces more formal elements of learning while still prioritising experiential opportunities and practical engagement, ensuring that children remain active participants in their education. By Year 2, learning takes place in the Mansion House, where pupils are gently prepared for the move into Prep. Here, the focus shifts towards developing greater independence, responsibility, and confidence, equipping them with the skills and mindset needed to thrive in the next stage of their academic journey.
The Cokethorpe Characters
The Cokethorpe Characters form an important part of our ethos, helping the children to understand our morals and values throughout the School community. Each half term one character is introduced and explored in depth. The children are encouraged to reflect upon this value and demonstrate this both inside and outside of the classroom.
From Brave Bear, who teaches courage, to Caring Camel, who shows kindness, Wise Owl, who values thoughtfulness, Go For It Gorilla, who inspires perseverance, and Honest Hippo, who models integrity, these characters are woven into daily learning and play. The children quickly become familiar with them and, at the end of each term, one child is celebrated for embodying the chosen character, reinforcing the importance of these values in their journey through Pre-Prep.
Where next?
Prep Learning
In the Prep School, pupils receive the vital foundations for study in a stimulating and purposeful environment, with a focus on intellectual challenge through the Creative Curriculum.
Academic Enrichment
Expanding our pupils’ learning beyond the confines of the classroom and the curriculum affords them the opportunity for a greater depth of understanding, and academic independence.
The Co-Curricular Programme
Our Co-Curricular Programme covers the performing and creative arts, sport and outdoor education, the Duke of Edinburgh Awards, and our extensive range of clubs and societies.
Book your tour today
Come and visit Cokethorpe, whether for an Open Morning, one of our monthly Meet the Head events, or a personal Tour, and Discover Your Cokethorpe.