News from Head of Prep

We know that we teach to the top, that we encourage curiosity, support aspiration and aim for excellence. We provide a rich and ambitious learning environment for our girls and are not afraid to hold firm in our beliefs about how best to enable our girls to thrive. I know that as a school we are on a journey. We have been on a journey for 150 years. My role is to support and encourage and develop my staff so that, in turn, they can support, encourage and develop the pupils in their care so that our families feel supported and rewarded for their trust in us. 

Academic rigour does not have to be demonstrated by a rigid and structured environment. The days of Victorian style rote learning are no more. We know that the application of knowledge and a depth of understanding will be far more powerful in enabling a child to reach their true potential. But, this involves trust in the process, trust in the ways in which the best possible outcomes are reached and an opportunity for individualised learning.

This week, Year One have immersed themselves in an exploration of toys. It has ensured their learning is relevant and tangible and the door to my office has been constantly revolving with visits from girls sharing exceptional pieces of written work - well structured and beautifully presented. Reception have been reaping the rewards of our wonderful outdoor areas. The value of outdoor learning and its benefits are immeasurable; studies show that it improves memory, focus, attention and wellbeing, with longitudinal studies highlighting the fact that early childhood outdoor time leads to better attention and academic performance as teenagers.

So, I will continue to encourage and support my staff with their outdoor learning. Whether it be Mrs Hobbs and Mrs Davies leading Gardening Club down at our School Allotment, Mr Cook with Golf Club, Mrs Sawyers coaching cricket, Mrs Masih Rai exploring ways to save water, Mrs Roberts braving hailstones at Martineau Gardens or Mrs V-C inspiring the girls with their Creative Writing in the great outdoors. It is within the Junior years of a child's education that the foundations are laid and I am incredibly proud of the way in which we do this at EHS Prep in our unique, all-girls environment.

Warmest wishes for the weekend,

Mrs N Hobson

Head of Preparatory School