DISCOVER YOUR FUTURE AT KING’S HAWFORD
A very warm welcome
Our journey with children commences in our celebrated Kindergarten and continues through the vibrant Pre-Prep years, paving the way for their progression into the Prep years.
Here, we provide both nurturing support and exciting challenges. As an integral part of the King’s Foundation, we take immense pride in ensuring a smooth transition for our boys and girls into the Senior School.
Imagine King’s Hawford as a greenhouse, its windows slightly ajar to allow fresh air in as children grow and thrive under the watchful care of our dedicated staff. Some discover a passion for reading in the cosy corners of our double-decker library bus, while others test their balance on a katakanu or by climbing trees.
Our strong commitment to outdoor learning and environmental sustainability instils a profound sense of responsibility for nature in every child.
At King’s Hawford, each pupil benefits from outstanding facilities and inspiring educators.
Yet, it’s our children themselves who truly shape the essence of our school. They keenly engage, confidently raising their hands and offering support when challenges arise. This resilient spirit is the DNA of our school reflecting our Foundation values.
We invite you to come and experience King’s Hawford in person. I eagerly await the opportunity to meet you and your children and introduce you to our wonderful school.
Mr Tom Butt Headmaster
“Polished, ambitious and caring, an aspirational school that wears its heart on its sleeve and is all the better for it.”
Our location
Surrounded by lush greenery and the natural beauty of the countryside, King’s Hawford offers a picturesque setting and peaceful backdrop for your child’s educational journey.
Here, amidst rolling green hills, young children embark on a unique journey of exploration, learning, and personal growth.
Situated deep in the Worcestershire countryside, in rural North Worcester, our school immerses children in the tranquillity of rural life. Our expansive green space is a place of adventure, where outdoor escapades not only broaden horizons but create treasured memories.
“Leaders provide pupils with extensive opportunities to take on roles of responsibility... elected pupils discuss different areas of school life and drive change and development across the school.”
Independent Schools Inspectorate
Unlocking potential and fostering excellence
At King’s Hawford, our foremost mission is to foster a nurturing and joyful atmosphere, one that feels like a second home to our children. Within this warm embrace, we cultivate an environment where friendships flourish, and
confidence blooms. Our primary goal is to provide children with the very best start to their King’s educational journey, achieved by instilling our Foundation’s core values and attributes in our children.
Our aims are:
We Embrace Adventure
Outdoor learning is woven into the very fabric of our educational approach. We harness the richness of our local surroundings to elevate the learning experience.
We Champion Respect
Our school culture is built on the bedrock of tolerance and mutual respect, deeply rooted in Christian values.
We Cultivate Confidence
We empower all children to take the initiative in their learning journey, ensuring that each child feels not just included but also secure and valued within our close-knit school community.
We Celebrate Individuality
We foster the growth of each child’s unique characteristics, nurturing their intellectual, emotional, physical, and spiritual potential.
We Treasure Playfulness
Childhood, we believe, is a time for play, where children explore the joy of learning, savour the rewards of achievement, and acquire invaluable life skills. We hold onto the essence of childhood, rather than rushing our children to grow up too soon.
At our school, each child, starting from Kindergarten and beyond, acquires the skills of working together, the resilience to persist, the importance of self-evaluation, and the excitement of personal challenges. These attributes mould them into curious learners who are thoroughly equipped to welcome the marvels of the world.
An overview of our school
Kindergarten (Early Years)
Nestled in the heart of the school campus, our Kindergarten provides a welcoming and nurturing haven for children aged 2 to 4. Here, we foster an environment where young minds are not only encouraged but celebrated as they explore, play, and develop their unique personalities.
Pre-Prep (Reception to Year 2)
As children progress to our Pre-Preparatory Department, they take their next steps on their exciting educational journey. It’s a creative place where their love for learning continues to grow, and where they enthusiastically explore the world with curiosity. Here they begin to delve into the core academic subjects, setting the stage for their academic journey ahead.
Prep School (Years 3 to 6)
The transition to the Prep School is a significant milestone in every child’s journey. In Years 3 to 6, children begin to take on more responsibility for their learning. At King’s, the pursuit of academic excellence goes hand in hand with character development. They explore their passions, discovering what their talents are, and how to nurture them. As they progress through the Prep, we ensure they are well-prepared academically and emotionally for the exciting opportunities that lie ahead at the Senior School.
“The children are happy, healthy, open and engaged... The children never stop moving.”
Good Schools Guide
We’re dedicated to realising each child’s boundless potential
Our Early Years Education programme is meticulously crafted to offer a nurturing atmosphere where young minds can flourish. Kindergarten is often the first step in a child’s educational journey. Here, we welcome children as young as two, recognising that each child is unique and starts their learning journey at their own pace. Our warm and inviting Kindergarten environment encourages exploration, play, and the development of budding personalities. In our Kindergarten, we embrace the delicate balance between structure and freedom. Children have the space to explore, learn through play, and express their creativity, all within a carefully structured daily routine.
We recognise the critical role of language development in early childhood. Through storytelling, engaging activities, and social interactions, we foster language development, laying the groundwork for strong communication skills. Building positive social relationships is a fundamental part of Kindergarten. Children interact with their peers, learn to share, and develop essential social skills.
Preparing for Reception
In Kindergarten 2 (KG2), children embark on their Pre-School year, typically starting at the age of three. This year is a bridge between the playbased learning of Kindergarten 1 (KG1) and the more structured environment of Reception.
KG2 helps children make a smooth transition to a slightly more structured routine while maintaining an emphasis on play-based learning. This prepares them for the more formal learning environment in Reception. Each child is assigned a key person - a caring and experienced nursery practitioner who provides personalised attention and support. This close bond helps children feel secure and nurtured.
KG2 offers a diverse range of activities, including Forest School, swimming lessons, physical education, and music. These experiences expose children to various interests and talents, supporting their holistic growth. Children in KG2 participate in a fun-packed and varied weekly programme, further enhancing their learning journey. Activities like Forest School and swimming provide opportunities for exploration and skill development.
A day in the life of the King’s Hawford Kindergarten
A day in the King’s Hawford Kindergarten is a delightful blend of laughter, exploration, and education. Our youngest learners not only receive nurturing care but also embark on an exciting journey of building social skills, fostering confidence, and igniting a passion for learning.
Arrivals and Morning Activities
The day begins with the warm arrival of our young learners. Morning activities are designed to ease the transition from home to school, offering a calm and welcoming environment. Children can engage in various activities, from colouring to building with blocks.
Storytime and Welcome
We gather the children for a delightful story time session, which not only entertains but also stimulates the imaginations and language development of our young learners.
Snack Time
A nutritious snack is provided to ensure children have the energy needed for a busy morning of exploration and learning.
Engaging Activities
The core of the morning is dedicated to engaging activities. These activities are carefully designed to be age-appropriate and promote cognitive, physical, and social development. Children may participate in creative arts and crafts, sensory play, early mathematics activities, or imaginative role-play.
Songs and Captivating Stories
We reconvene for a music and storytelling session, enhancing language skills, listening comprehension, and rhythm. Children delight in the magic of stories and songs, often joining in with singing, clapping, and movement.
Lunchtime
Lunch is a significant part of the day. Nutritious meals are provided to support healthy growth and development. Meal times teach children important social skills, such as sharing, using utensils, and good table manners.
More Exciting Activities
The afternoon continues with a variety of engaging activities that build on the morning’s discoveries. These activities might involve more hands-on exploration, group projects, or outdoor play, providing a balanced and enriching experience.
Home Time for Morning Session
For children attending the morning session only, it’s time to say goodbye and head home.
Rest Time
For those attending the full day, we provide a quiet rest time where children can recharge and relax. Soft mats and soothing music create a peaceful atmosphere.
Outdoor Play
After a restful break, children engage in outdoor play. Whether in our playground or garden, outdoor play promotes physical activity, creativity, and an appreciation of nature.
Light Snack and Drink
A light afternoon snack provides the energy needed for the final activities of the day. A refreshing drink ensures children stay hydrated and alert.
Light Tea
As the day winds down, children enjoy a light tea before preparing for the end of their day. This meal offers a comfortable and communal closing to the day’s activities.
Final Collection
Parents or guardians arrive to collect their children, and our staff ensure that each child is handed over safely.
“...teachers plan engaging lessons which, alongside high expectations, motivate pupils to try hard and present their work with pride. “
Independent Schools Inspectorate, November 2024
“ Light, bright and spacious, classrooms are adorned with topic displays or ‘proud boards’ highlighting pupils’ work.”
Academic & curriculum
At King’s Hawford, we foster a dynamic academic atmosphere that encourages the growth of young minds. Our curriculum reflects our dedication to delivering a comprehensive educational experience.
As children transition through the school from Kindergarten onwards, they embark on an educational journey that is both invigorating and life-changing. Our curriculum is designed to ignite curiosity and foster independent thinking, with learning themes thoughtfully interwoven into creative topics. These evolve regularly, ensuring that each day is filled with engaging discoveries, and lots of fun.
We provide a hands-on and interactive learning environment that captivates young minds, making great use of the expansive outdoor space on our doorstep. Core subjects like Maths and English
receive significant curriculum time, while pupils also explore Science, Humanities, RE, and PSHE. We recognise that every child is unique, and their talents should be nurtured. Specialist teachers guide children in subjects like Art, Design and Technology, German, Spanish, French, Music, and IT. These experts tailor their lessons to inspire and empower our children, allowing them to develop their skills and shine in their chosen areas of interest.
Homework tasks establish a strong home-school connection, giving parents insights into their children’s progress and coursework.
Co-curricular & sport
Our children have a thirst for adventure, and we quench it with a rich variety of co-curricular activities.
Whether they’re diving into the world of chess, mastering Mandarin, acquiring essential First Aid skills, exploring the performing arts, delving into STEM projects, communicating through sign language, or engaging in martial arts like karate, our children encounter the joy of activities they might not have otherwise considered.
Our co-curricular adventures extend to gardening, photography and cookery. These hands-on experiences impart valuable skills while connecting children to the world around them. We subscribe to the belief that nature is one of life’s greatest teachers. Our outdoor activities, including construction, Katakanu lessons, and various outdoor adventures, encourage children to engage actively with the natural world.
Sport at King’s Hawford is a cornerstone of our holistic education, promoting teamwork and a love for an active lifestyle. Our extensive sports programme offers a diverse range of activities, ensuring every child finds a sport they enjoy and excel in. We offer a wide array of sports, including athletics, rugby, football, hockey, netball, cricket, swimming, rounders and tennis, providing our pupils with diverse avenues for physical development and enjoyment.
“The school believes in giving children lots of opportunities to try out new things, so the extra-curricular programme is extensive.”
Music
At King’s Hawford, the enchanting world of music is an integral aspect of our children’s development.
We believe that every child has a natural connection to music, and this connection is nurtured right from the beginning. In all year groups, children are taught proper singing techniques, boosting their confidence as they perform. In Reception and Year 1, children explore their voices and engage with classroom percussion instruments, discovering the
fundamental elements of music, such as pulse and pitch. Year 2 sees them learning to play the recorder playing and using glockenspiels, developing their skills in composition. In Year 3, xylophones take centre stage as children delve into the world of the pentatonic scale.
In Year 4, children take part in whole-class trumpet lessons, a fantastic opportunity to master brass instruments. Simultaneously, they develop keyboard skills and discover the world of tonality. By Years 5 and 6, many of our children are either learning to play an instrument or receiving singing lessons. Classroom work leans towards composition and performance, allowing them to explore their creative musical expressions.
We offer a plethora of co-curricular clubs, including Junior Choir, Senior Choir, Orchestra, Brass Group, String Group, Guitar Group, Harp Group, Musical Theatre club, and more. We even have a Sing and Sign club that introduces children to the beautiful world of sign language through music. Throughout the year, our school holds informal concerts, charity events, formal performances, nativities, a Christingle, and a heart-warming Carol Service in Worcester Cathedral.
Arts
At King’s Hawford, we understand the profound impact of the creative arts on a child’s development.
Our dedication to fostering creativity is an integral part of our curriculum, offering opportunities to explore and create through a diverse range of artistic avenues.
From the realms of painting to sculpture, children are encouraged to experiment with diverse mediums, breathing life into their visions on canvas, paper, and three-dimensional forms.
Drama and Dance command the spotlight at King’s Hawford. Our children shine in dramatic productions, stepping into the roles of characters, embarking on captivating storytelling journeys, and honing their confidence on the stage.
We cherish the boundless nature of creativity, granting our children the opportunity to explore their own unique artistic expressions. Whether it’s a whimsical watercolour masterpiece or an intricately crafted dance routine, each creation is incredibly special.
“Leaders
consistently provide opportunities for pupils across the school to think and learn for themselves…. they develop the resilience to accept mistakes as a learning opportunity. This has a strong positive impact on pupils’ self-confidence and self-esteem.”
Schools Inspectorate, November 2024
“The school certainly has a tangible family feel to it as you walk around.”
Muddy Stilettos
Pastoral care
At King’s Hawford, we recognise that a child’s development encompasses more than just academic achievement.
We equally prioritise children’s emotional and social growth. Our comprehensive approach to well-being is aimed at nurturing and guiding every child, fostering their development as wellrounded individuals.
Emotional & Mental Well-Being
We prioritise the mental and emotional health of our children. We offer various resources and activities to help cultivate resilience, and foster positive mental health. Our approach is proactive, with regular check-ins and transparent communication, ensuring the prompt identification and resolution of any concerns.
Respect & Anti-Bullying
Promoting respect for others is a fundamental aspect of our school’s ethos. We uphold robust anti-bullying policies and actively teach and exemplify respectful behaviour. Our children learn the importance of empathy, kindness, and inclusiveness, which creates a harmonious and supportive environment for all.
Supportive Atmosphere
We acknowledge that children face a range of challenges during their academic journey. Be it academic struggles, friendship dilemmas, or personal issues, our doors are always open. We offer a safe and welcoming space for them to discuss their concerns and seek guidance.
A Caring Community
We place great importance on creating a sense of belonging for each child. We cultivate an environment built on trust, respect, and inclusivity, ensuring that every child experiences a sense of safety and support.
Committed Staff
Our dedicated team lies at the core of our wellbeing initiatives. Teachers, teaching assistants, and support staff collaborate closely to grasp each child’s unique needs and provide the necessary assistance.
Our facilities
At King’s Hawford, we believe an exceptional learning environment is fundamental for nurturing young minds.
Our state-of-the-art facilities set the stage for academic excellence, with a beautiful well stocked library, spacious art and music rooms, and fully kitted out classrooms for STEM subjects. Our multi-purpose sports building and indoor swimming pool are home to a wide range of sports and physical activities. Additionally, our extensive outdoor sports facilities, including tennis courts and vast playing fields, provide ample space for children to keep active.
We recognise the importance of nature in education, and our expansive outdoor spaces bear testament to this commitment. With three well-established Forest School areas, we extend our learning environment beyond walls and roofs. These outdoor classrooms provide opportunities for hands-on, nature-based education, aligning with our dedication to holistic learning.
“This infectiously chirpy school has hit the nail on the head, combining academic and character development with a huge dollop of good old-fashioned fun.”
Talk Education
The Hawford community
At King’s Hawford, we firmly believe in the importance of a strong partnership between both school and home.
We highly value the crucial role that parents and guardians play in their children’s educational journey and promote active parental involvement within our school community.
To maintain a seamless connection, we keep open channels of communication with parents. This includes a weekly newsletter, email updates, and face-to-face contact. These avenues ensure
that parents stay well-informed about school events and most importantly, their child’s academic progress.
As important members of our school community, we value parents’ insights and perspectives. Through our Parents’ Association, school events and volunteering, parents actively contribute to the vibrant life of the school.
We regularly celebrate our children’s accomplishments, and we extend a warm invitation to parents to take part in these moments. Whether it’s applauding their achievements at award ceremonies or enjoying their performances in after school events and sports fixtures, these occasions allow parents to share in their child’s successes.
Moving to ‘Big King’s’
As children approach Year 6, they start preparing for their transition to senior school.
Our academic programme ensures that they are well-equipped with the knowledge and skills needed for the next stage of their education. Throughout their journey, our children imbibe the values and ethos that are the hallmark of a King’s education. These values serve as a strong foundation, preparing children academically, emotionally, and socially to confidently step into the world of senior education.
One of the key advantages of moving across to our Senior School is familiarity. Children already know the campus, teachers, and many of their peers, making the transition less daunting. This sense of continuity helps them settle in quickly.
We ensure continuity of care and pastoral support, so they feel secure and nurtured as they embrace new horizons.
King’s Worcester Senior offers a robust academic programme designed to challenge and inspire. We ensure that they are academically prepared, providing them with the skills and knowledge required for success in the senior school curriculum. When your child leaves our school, they’ll do so with the confidence and resilience that will help them thrive in the new routines, expectations and plethora of opportunities of Senior School. They will be King’s ready.
“ The vast majority of leavers (sometimes even 100 per cent) proceed straight to King’s Worcester, or ‘Big King’s”
Wrap around care
At King’s Hawford, we go above and beyond to create an environment where our children feel not just welcomed but truly nurtured. We understand that modern family life can be demanding, and that’s why we offer comprehensive wrap-around care to support parents and provide children with enriching experiences.
Early Mornings and Late Afternoons
Our wrap-around care begins early, with drop-off available from 7.45am. This provides parents with the flexibility they need to balance work and family life. After school, our supervised care and after-school clubs extend until 6.00pm, giving parents peace of mind knowing their children are well looked after.
We offer a plethora of co-curricular clubs, including Junior Choir, Senior Choir, Orchestra, Brass Group, String Group, Guitar Group, Harp Group, Musical Theatre club, and more. We even have a Sing and Sign club that introduces children to the beautiful world of sign language through music. Throughout the year, our school holds informal concerts, charity events, formal performances, nativities, a Christingle, and a heart-warming Carol Service in Worcester Cathedral.
Holiday Club
School holidays can be a challenge for working parents, so we’ve designed our Holiday Club to be a seamless extension of our term-time care.
Run by our own King’s Hawford staff, the Holiday Club ensures continuity of care for our children during these breaks.
Clubs and Activities
Our commitment to education doesn’t stop when the school day ends. From chess to debating, coding to sports, theatre to karate, gymnastics to outward bound adventures –there’s something for everyone. These clubs provide children with opportunities to explore their interests, develop new skills, and build lasting friendships.
“Recognising the importance of the school community is at the heart of the School’s mission”
Independent Schools Inspectorate, November 2024
Embarking on your educational journey at King’s Hawford is an opportunity to explore the extraordinary. Whether you are considering the Nursery, or the Prep School, we invite you to step into our world and explore the rich academic, pastoral, and co-curricular qualities which define us.
• hawford@ksw.org.uk