Founded in 1978, the Lower School gives children from 2 1/2 years of age the opportunity to benefit from the distinctive Moor Park education. It has developed into a happy, flourishing extension of the school, singled out for high praise in recent OFSTED reports where the Early Learning was judged 'Outstanding'. The classes are housed in attractive rooms, including a library and assembly hall. Children also benefit from the facilities that come with a good prep school, such as the sports hall, the Henderson Hall (for dance, drama, PE), chapel, art room, ICT suite and of course the acres of playing fields and woods, where they can explore and invent new worlds.
Although Children may start at any point, many begin their time at Moor Park in the Nursery, attending part-time and then growing into the full school week.
While there is much emphasis on English skills and number work in the Lower School, the curriculum is broad. Small, intimate, parallel classes with qualified teachers ensure that pupils reach their potential with individual attention. There is much emphasis on personal development: children are encouraged to develop a compassionate attitude towards others. 'Respect' and 'trust' are much used words. Self-discipline and independence are promoted.
Year 3 is a 'transitionary year', being part of the Lower School while adopting some of the challenges of the Upper School. For example, children are taught in the Science Laboratories by science specialists and similarly, ICT is taught as a discrete subject, by a specialist, in the school's ICT suite. Pupils develop increasing independence by being given greater responsibility and using more of our extensive site and facilities. Year 3 children have the opportunity to stay for activities (until 1730). Saturday school is introduced gently with alternate weeks in the Lent Term, building to every Saturday in the summer.
We believe that, whatever the age, children grow in confidence through performance. Lower School children perform for parents and friends on many occasions during the year: poetry performances, the Christmas play, 'Easter Extravaganza' in the Lent Term and the Year 3 play in the Summer Term.
Above all the Lower School is a happy place for your child to begin his or her educational journey - we look forward to sharing this with you.
Please click here to see Structure of Lower School day
Please click below for Lower School Timetables for Lent 2011
Nursery Timetable
Kindergarten Timetable
Reception Timetable
1B Timetable
1M Timetable
2H Timetable
2W Timetable
Lower School Procedures and Policies