Description
Elstree School is Independent Secondary school in Non-selective for kids aged 3 to 13 (Gender - 3 to 13 )
At Elstree, the aim is two-fold. Firstly they wish to find out how a child is intelligent rather than how intelligent a child is. This broad and holistic approach fits into the ethos that they wish to find, nurture and develop talent and prepare children for senior school education and life beyond. The second key element is that ‘effort is king’.Every child is encouraged to have a go at a very broad range of activities and all of their achievements are celebrated. Thus they grow up within a happy and productive environment where their teachers aim to ensure that each pupil is given the opportunity to shine in an area of school life which builds confidence and high self-esteem.
Facilities
Prep
Whilst the emphasis on the academic side is vital, every child is encouraged to have a go at a very broad range of activities and all of their achievements are celebrated, whatever the field. The teachers ensure that each child is given the opportunity to shine in many areas of school life and so develop a sense of accomplishment and personal worth.Special focus is given to fostering the qualities of teamwork and leadership. Children are taught and encouraged to communicate with their peers and their teachers in a confident and considerate way and to display high levels of self-discipline, honesty and integrity.Traditional values of courtesy, tolerance, and good manners are high on the agenda, as is the ability to distinguish clearly between right and wrong. The children are encouraged to respect one another which gives them an awareness of being part of a wider community and a strong feeling of belonging.
Early Years
Nursery and Reception classes follow the Foundation Stage Framework, learning through play and practical activities, both in the classroom, in our outdoor play areas as well as making full use of the extensive grounds of Elstree School. Flexible sessions, including lunch if required, are offered to children in the Nursery on days to suit both children and parents.The Foundation Stage is organised into three prime areas and four specific areas. The prime areas are Communication and Language, Physical Development and Personal, Social and Emotional Development. These areas are critical for children to progress effectively in all aspects and form the main focus in the Nursery. We ensure that the children are supported in the remaining four specific areas, through which the three prime areas are strengthened and applied
Years 1 & 2
Year 1 sees children make the transition from the play based learning of the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum to the more formal lessons of Key Stage 1. The introduction to the year is a gentle one and helps the children become settled into the new routines. There is close liaison with the Reception staff to ensure that the transition is well managed and that staff are aware of each child’s strengths and characteristics of learning.There is a strong emphasis on English and Maths during these two years whilst still ensuring that the children enjoy a broad and balanced curriculum and have the opportunity to learn by doing and being involved.
Features
Things to note
Performing & Creative Arts
Alongside the pursuit of academic excellence, rooted in the School’s ethos is the importance of giving children a proper childhood; participating in group and individual activities that develop their own characters and their relationship with others. Academic achievement coupled with this opportunity to be involved in music, art and drama as well as sport ensures that Elstree remains a preparatory school in the broadest sense of the word.
Music and Drama
Music and drama help children to develop skills, attitudes and attributes that can support learning in other subject areas. These include listening skills, the ability to concentrate and they also help to develop their creativity and sensitivity towards others.A music specialist teaches all children throughout the school, each year group having two lessons per week. By engaging in making and responding to music, children develop their understanding and appreciation of a wide range of different types of music. All children are given the chance to participate and perform in a group and as a soloist.
Sports
All of the children enjoy specialist PE lessons led by the Elstree Assistant Director of Sport and Head of Girls Games. All year groups benefit from using the extensive sports facilities at the school including the Elstree Sports Hall. The Early Years have three lessons per week and Years 1 and 2 have four lessons per week: these cover a broad range of skills including gymnastics, dance, football, rugby, cricket, netball, tennis and swimming in the summer term. We try to mirror, as closely as possible, the Elstree sporting curriculum so as to thoroughly prepare the children for the next step in their sporting education.
Extra Curricular
Please check the school website link for details.
2.88 miles
