KINGSWOOD PREP IN FOCUS
2023/24
...our philosophy of “relaxed but purposeful”...resonates throughout our school
HEADMASTER’S WELCOME
It is always an honour and a privilege to write the introduction to our school magazine, Kingswood In Focus. We are a very busy school and trying to encapsulate the highlights of the school year can be a challenge, albeit a pleasant one!
The academic year 2023/24 has seen another full school and Nursery, with waiting lists in many year groups. This success is down to the exceptionally strong team we have in all sections of our community. We have an enormous amount of fun at KPS and our philosophy of “relaxed but purposeful” and “high expectations, low anxiety” resonates throughout our school.
We all have our own memories of what life was like when we were at school. Some of these reflections
will be positive, some less so. It is our aim that every child leaving KPS will know how lucky they have been, and will have all the solid foundations in place to achieve success and happiness, in and out of the classroom.
The most important thing is that your child loves coming to school every day. If they feel relaxed, at ease, safe and loved, then really incredible things can happen… and they do! We see a huge growth in the children’s confidence and their willingness to take on challenges.
Our attention to detail in pastoral care is second to none; it is our mission to get to know every unique individual and bring the very best out of them. This can only be done with a highly talented staff, who model and lead the children’s learning and pastoral development.
This age group is a golden window of opportunity to share wideranging experiences with parents, who are warmly welcomed at school to share their children’s journey. Everything is done in triangulation between home, school and the children. Together, we want exactly the same thing: a happy child, flourishing in every area of school life.
It is an invidious task to pick out any one aspect of our school from the academic year 2023/24, but I really hope that the content of this magazine gives you a feel for the
range and scope of all that is on offer at KPS. However, it is only by visiting the school, sitting in lessons with pupils, watching performances, or chatting about what is important to our children, that you will be able to really appreciate the full extent of the opportunities, experiences and activities on offer each and every day. Please come and see us in action on a normal working day - I can promise that what you will see will be outstanding and uplifting in equal measure. We love our jobs and our passion for making a real difference in children’s lives is evident in every area of the School.
Enjoy the magazine - and do visit us to see the School in action for yourself!
Yours,
Mr Mark Brearey (Headmaster)
STAFF NEWS
JOINERS:
We were delighted to welcome Alice Jones, Anna Thompson and Frankie Tromans who joined KPS in September 2023, with each of them having brought something special to our school.
LEAVERS:
Marie McGlynn and Jackie Cross leave after working a total of 60 combined years at our school.
Marie McGlynn started her career at Priors Court near Newbury, which become part of Kingswood Prep School in 1995 when it merged with Hermitage House in Bath. Marie has been a consummate professional throughout her time at the school. Over her time with us she has been part of the SMT, was in charge of teaching and learning inbetween deputy appointments and led Drama with an aplomb. Marie was truly passionate about children’s reading and its importance on children’s overall development. Marie can reflect with incredible pride on a wonderful teaching career where she made a positive difference every day.
Jackie Cross led music across the School over her time at KPS and engendered a love of singing in all our children. So many parents have had their children in the back of cars on their way home, singing songs that Mrs Cross inspired through her music lessons and choirs. In the year Jackie left KPS, over 250 children were having individual music lessons. Many ex KPS pupils have gone on to make a career in music or just continued to love music after leaving school. Music is at the heart of our school, much of it due to the impact Jackie has had and her influence on the simple joy of singing. Enjoy your retirement Mrs Cross!
Alice will be working as a class teacher in Reception having recently been working in Bristol. She has an absolute passion for the Reception age group and all the necessary skills to make a really positive impact on our children.
Both Anna and Frankie are at the beginning of their career and impressed us all at interview with their enthusiasm, skills in the classroom and potential to be exceptional teachers.
Mr Hill has been a lovely colleague to work with and fully deserves his promotion into the middle management team at Hazelgrove. Mr Hill is a very talented man with many all-round skills which include languages, art and sport. He leaves with all our love and best wishes for the future. Mr Hill can reflect with pride on all his achievements at school and his focus on his children’s wellbeing will continue to permeate the school in years to come
Mr Seal has had two stints teaching at KPS, and we have loved what he has brought to our school. He has led the green and environmental elements of our school with distinction. He has so many gifts as a teacher and a broad love of languages, different cultures and a deep desire for every child to be completely at ease in his teaching space. Mr Seal leaves us to take on new business opportunities and we wish him all the best. He will join our supply team for the academic year 24/25.
When Anna Jones wasn’t running marathons, she was coordinating our learning support programme with exceptional skill and patience. She has been a brilliant colleague to work with and has a deep insightful knowledge of how children learn and how best we can support them. Anna liaised with the form teachers closely and ensured that we as a school were doing everything we could to ensure that those children needing and requiring support, reached their potential. Anna leaves to set up her own business providing learning support and educational assessments in the Bath area. We will miss you, Anna!
Mrs Adams has been a part of our excellent TA team and has made a real difference to both the staff and the children with her pastoral and wellbeing and academic interventions. She has watched both her children travel through KPS and the Senior School. She has worked exceptionally hard on her counselling qualifications; this is now her primary focus. We thank Mrs Adams for her hard work and service to our community.
A MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL OF THE KINGSWOOD FOUNDATION
It is a pleasure once again to write a few words for this year’s magnificent edition of Kingswood Prep in Focus.
To be fair, it’s an impossible job to capture the full spectrum of each term’s highlights at what is surely Bath’s busiest Prep School, but the team have done a grand job trying. I hope you enjoy the pages that follow which are replete with wonderful pictures of flourishing children. There are
many threads intentionally woven between KPS and the senior school, the most significant of which is our singular focus on a well-rounded education of real excellence. Our One Foundation strategy is reason enough for me to block off time in my diary every week to walk down the hill to meet with Mr Brearey.
FROM THE CHAPLAIN
I love discovering fun history facts about Kingswood. Our founder John Wesley’s first two teachers were somewhat of a disaster. They embezzled the funds and ran off and became Highway Men!
Thereafter Wesley realised that he had to work really hard to gain the best teachers who would embody his goal of a model school with love at its heart. He began by persuading friends from University who he knew to be wise, kind, patient people of faith to come and help him. What Wesley achieved was remarkable for his day and a huge contrast from his own experience of school at Charterhouse in the 1700s. Fortunately all schools have changed so much since then and Wesley wouldn’t recognise much of Kingswood today. However, he would still see the love and kindness that runs at its heart. As someone who works across the whole foundation I can testify to the incredible teachers and support staff who work across the Nursery, Pre-School, Pre-Prep and Prep School. Their kindness, wisdom, love and care of the children and their hard work would have overwhelmed John Wesley with joy!
But the highlights of each visit (no offence Mr B) are invariably the moments when I am accosted by delightful, polite and enthusiastic boys and girls who pepper me with questions, twist my arm to play silly games or proudly tell me their latest joke! These are lovely moments which capture the essence of a happy and purposeful place of learning. These moments are a cause for gratitude, and I give thanks for the teachers and staff who guide our young people and to our parents and guardians for trusting us with such precious cargo. Happy reading.
Mr Andrew Gordon-Brown (Headmaster & Principal of The Kingswood Foundation)
ENJOYMENT & ENRICHMENT PROGRAMME
Our Enjoyment & Enrichment Programme (EEP) offers an extensive and varied activity programme that provides opportunities to try something new, discover a new skill or interest or simply to pursue and develop an existing hobby.
BOOKWORM CLUB
We reckon we are the quietest club in school! All of us like nothing better than to snuggle down and enjoy a good read. Ssh! Don't interrupt us…
ART CLUB
NO COOK COOKING CLUB
We have a lot of fun in the No Cook Cooking Club, making so many delicious treats including fruit kebabs, animal face rice cakes and owl cookies with a cheesecake dip. Not only is it fun but it’s very tasty too!
Our art clubs provides a vibrant space filled with laughter, music and creativity, giving students the opportunity to explore their artistic abilities freely, developing independence and confidence in a supportive environment. Guided by our talented Year 10-12 students, the clubs foster collaboration and spark imagination, creating contagious enthusiasm among peers.
We are incredibly proud of the wide range of activities on offer to our pupils. There are more than 80 activities available each week, and the choices change on a termly basis. Here’s a highlight of some of the activities on offer – there truly is something for everyone!
EXTRA-CURRICULAR DRAMA
Drama at KPS extends well beyond the classroom, with a variety of extracurricular opportunities for students to dive deeper into the performing arts. This year, students could participate in the ever-popular Musical Theatre Club, Drama Club, and the LAMDA Club, where our pupils achieved outstanding resultsno student received less than a Merit in their LAMDA exams, with a large number earning Distinctions.
For the first time, we also introduced a Production and Props Club, where students from Years 3 to 6 worked together to create a full-scale production of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. What made this project special was that it was entirely studentled, with the children taking charge of everything from set design to props creation. The result was a magical performance that demonstrated not just their dramatic skills, but also their creativity, teamwork, and leadership.
GREEN GOBLIN
Our Green Goblin club members have done us proud with their electric go-kart achievements. They've brought home several trophies, and more importantly, they've shown great teamwork throughout the year.
DRAWING & DOODLE CLUB
In a burst of colours and creativity, the Year 1 and 2 Drawing and Doodle Club has enabled budding artists to revel in the joy of crafting imaginative and colourful flower pictures. Our young Picassos have embraced the world of art, experimenting with various techniques to bring their floral visions to life. From bold strokes to delicate details, each stroke of the pencil or pen was a step in their artistic journey.
FOREST SCHOOL CLUB
Cooking damper bread over the fire, creating outdoor art, making rope, rigging up the hammock and whittling wands and bows – these are just some of the activities on offer! As the nights draw in, the club enjoys games in the darker evenings, brewing hot chocolate, telling stories by the campfire and experimenting with torches and shadows – head torches at the ready!
CHEERLEADING CLUB
Cheerleading Club has been an exciting adventure for the children as they have learnt the four elements that make up a cheerleading routine - dance, jumps, tumbles and stunts, with the latter being a firm favourite! As always, safety was paramount so the children learnt the different roles within a stunt group and what each person would be responsible for. Once they had established their different roles as base, back, front or flyer, they set to learning different grips, lifts and counts, culminating in some very impressive stunting. The cheerleading group has wowed us with their hard work and how quickly they have managed to put together a routine. Well done Cheerleading Club!
GOLF CLUB
Every Tuesday after school a small group of Year 5 and 6 children are signed up for Golf Club and travel to Bath Golf Club where Phil Cloak, a PGA Professional, takes the session. Over the weeks the children are introduced to a new skill and use the different facilities at the golf club. The group consists of complete beginners to children who have played before, and all the balls, tees and clubs are provided for the children to use. This is a fantastic introduction to golf and the perfect age for the children to learn this sport.
BUDDY READ AND PLAYTIME
Our children are always so excited to share a book with their big/small buddies from Buddy Read and Playtime.
A highlight of every half term is the Buddy Read and Buddy Playtime –the children are always so excited to share a book or their playtime with their big/small buddies from other year groups. It is a great bonding experience for our children, and helps everyone in school become closer and the opportunity to learn from one another.
YEAR 3 MAGDALEN FARM TRIP
Year 3 embarked on a memorable trip to Magdalen Farm, where their enthusiasm and love of nature shone bright. The highlight? Spending a night away from home, a huge achievement despite the lack of sleep.
On the first day of their stay, the children tackled various activities with gusto. They built rain resistant dens during "Survival in the Wild," got creative with nature-inspired crafts in the barn during “Nature’s Art”, and enjoyed a lively campfire complete with songs, dancing, and treats. Full of excitement, the children retreated to their dormitories ready for a good night’s sleep.
...the children returned home with hearts full of memories and a newfound sense of confidence.
The next day, they had a hands-on experience feeding the farm animals and learning about sustainable farming practices. The children were particularly excited to have the opportunity to feed the pigs and hold fresh, warm chicken eggs!
Exhausted but happy, the children returned home with hearts full of memories and a newfound sense of confidence.
YEAR 4 FOLLY FARM TRIP JUNE
They returned home, happily tired, having thoroughly enjoyed the time away.
2024
In June, Year 4 enjoyed an engaging residential at Folly Farm. The children were excited to arrive on the first morning, in the sunshine, and see the beautiful setting.
The friendly staff were keen to immediately engage the children in their first activity, so they had a snack, dropped their bags and split into groups. One group went on an adventurous hike through the stunning woodland on the 250-acre reserve. The other group enjoyed a pond dipping session, identifying many interesting species of water bugs and insects. They caught newts, water spiders, mayfly nymphs and Ramshorn snails, amongst many other things! Having had a delicious picnic in the orchard, and a little rest, the first group set off for their pond dipping session, and the second group dissected owl pellets and learnt about how owls hunt their prey! Our freshly cooked pasta dinner was a huge success,
and the children settled quickly in their beautiful rooms, to the night time hoots of some local barn owls, and visiting deer.
The next day, the children were all up bright and early, ready for the day's activities. After a delicious home-cooked breakfast, cereals and fruit, the children gathered in their day groups. One group set off for the shady woods and learnt about mammals, camouflage and building habitats. They played games, pretended to be bunnies and took part in a woodland game of 'I Spy'. They found 20 items hidden along a woodland path and we were impressed with the groups that found them all! The other group took part in a variety of team
building and orienteering activities, designed to improve cooperation, help form new relationships and build negotiating skills. Staff were impressed with the lateral thinking and creativity they all showed, particularly in the spider’s web challenge! After another delicious picnic lunch in the orchard, the groups swapped over. Dinner that night was a special event with the England football world cup games shown on a projector in two rooms, with popcorn to mark the occasion.
On our final morning, the children made incredible dens in the woods and learnt how to light their own fires. They returned home, happily tired, having thoroughly enjoyed the time away.
YEAR 5 MILL ON THE BRUE TRIP MARCH 2024
What an incredible adventure! Year 5 had an unforgettable time at Mill on the Brue, taking part in a wide range of exciting, challenging, and fun activities — along with some very interesting weather! The centre's expert instructors ensured the trip was both enjoyable and safe from start to finish.
T...it was wonderful to witness the development of team spirit and leadership...
he children were a delight to bring along and made us proud every step of the way. While there were countless memorable moments, the trip's growth mindset themes stand out. Cooperation was essential in most activities, resilience was needed when things got tough, and creative thinking helped the children navigate more than one tricky situation!
We promoted a great deal of independent thinking and learning, with the children staying organised and punctual throughout their time at the centre. Those with a curious mindset gained the most from the experience, asking fantastic questions along the way. They adapted to every challenge, overcoming nerves and fears with courage.
Communication played a vital role, and it was wonderful to witness the development of team spirit and leadership through inclusive, positive interactions.
Well done, Year 5!
The trip was designed to give the children a mix of adventure and learning...
YEAR 6 ANGLESEY TRIP
A WEEK OF ADVENTURE, LEARNING, AND GROWTH
At the end of their time at Kingswood Prep School, Year 6 pupils embarked on a memorable five-night residential trip to the beautiful island of Anglesey in North Wales.
This much-anticipated excursion, which took place amidst the stunning landscapes of the Welsh countryside, was packed with outdoor activities, challenges, and opportunities for personal growth. For many of the children, it was their first time away from home for such an extended period, offering a chance to build independence and strengthen friendships in a setting far removed from the classroom.
The trip was designed to give the children a mix of adventure and learning, pushing them out of their comfort zones while ensuring they had plenty of fun. Each day was filled with exciting activities that showcased the natural beauty of North Wales and helped the children develop essential life skills.
On the first day, the group settled into their accommodation, which
was situated close to the coast, offering breathtaking views of the Irish Sea. The children spent their first evening exploring the local beach and buzzing with excitement for the days ahead.
From there, the adventure truly began. A variety of outdoor activities were planned, including rock climbing, kayaking, hiking, and ziplining. Many of these activities were designed not only to be physically challenging but also to teach the children the importance of teamwork, resilience, and communication.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the trip was watching the children face their fears head-on. For some, the idea of kayaking on the open sea or climbing up a steep rock face seemed daunting at first. However, with encouragement from their peers and teachers, many overcame these challenges, realising that they
were capable of much more than they had initially thought.
A highlight was the gorge walking, where the group trekked through a river where they climber up (and slid down!) waterfalls to reach the top of the river. Splashing into pools, navigating boulders and frolicking in the falls provided group bonding, with children supporting each other and sharing stories along the way.
Spending five nights away from home also provided the children with an invaluable chance to develop their independence. Throughout the trip, they were responsible for organising their own belongings, preparing for daily activities, and looking after each other. This responsibility helped them grow
in confidence and fostered a sense of maturity that will serve them well in the future.
Even simple tasks like setting the table for dinner or tidying their dorm rooms became valuable lessons in responsibility. These small, everyday actions allowed the children to take ownership of their time away from home and contributed to the overall feeling of accomplishment that many expressed at the end of the week.
The trip wasn’t just about conquering physical challenges and building independence; it was also about creating lifelong memories. The laughter and joy that filled the campsite each evening were a testament to the fun and camaraderie shared by the group. From trips to the beach to late-night
chats in the dorms, these moments will undoubtedly be remembered by the children for years to come.
For many pupils, the trip also strengthened existing friendships and forged new ones which was the perfect end to Year 6.
The Year 6 residential trip to Anglesey was more than just a week of adventure—it was a journey of personal growth, friendship, and discovery. Each child left with a sense of pride in what they had accomplished and a greater understanding of their own capabilities.
It was, without a doubt, an unforgettable experience that will serve as a highlight of their final year in prep school.
FOSTERING A LOVE OF LANGUAGE & LITERATURE
PRE-SCHOOL
In Pre-School, literacy involves early mark making. We encourage the children to make marks in sensory materials such as shaving foam, leading on to using pens and colouring tools.
All of our Pre-School classes celebrate reading through their ‘book of the week’. This is brought alive to the children through fun activities, such as tasting the fruits from ‘Handa’s Surprise’, or building their own space rocket from ‘Whatever Next’.
RECEPTION
Phonics plays a crucial role in laying the foundation for reading and writing skills. Children are introduced to the sounds of letters and how they combine to form words through systematic and structured activities. Engaging games, songs, and hands-on activities make the learning process enjoyable and interactive. This early focus on phonics not only enhances children's decoding abilities but also fosters a love for language and literature.
Engaging games, songs, and hands-on activities make the learning process enjoyable...
YEAR 1
Our English curriculum has been seamlessly integrated with our three captivating topics: ‘Woodland Wonders’, ‘Let's Go Up, Up, and Away’ and ‘What's Under the Ocean Splash’. The children have delved into a variety of stories and non-fiction texts related to each theme, enhancing their reading and comprehension skills. Each topic provided rich opportunities for drama, allowing the children to bring stories to life through role-play and imaginative activities. This immersive approach has made learning engaging and dynamic, fostering a love for reading and storytelling while building their understanding of different text types.
YEAR 2
Our English learning has been linked with their termly topics ‘Amazing Quests’, ‘Whizz Bang Pop’ and ‘Let's find out about Waterways’. Highlights from this year include creating fact files on riverbank animals; writing imaginative and gruesome potions for George to give to Grandma in George’s Marvellous medicine; and writing persuasive letters to their local MP and King Charles about their concerns for water pollution in the River Avon. The children demonstrated a real passion for language and enjoyed expressing their creativity through their own stories written with engaging and vivid language.
YEAR 3
Year 3’s writing journey has been an exciting adventure, filled with creativity and exploration! Students dived into thrilling topics like Chocolate, Dinosaurs and South Africa, crafting everything from imaginative poems to revolting recipes. They brought their stories to life through newspaper reports, traditional tales and even adventurefilled narratives inspired by books like Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Dinosaur Cove and Akimbo and the Elephants. With each new chapter, their passion for writing grew, turning every lesson into an unforgettable storytelling experience. What a fantastic year of discovery and expression it’s been!
YEAR 4
Throughout the year, Year 4 students have not only expanded their literary horizons through delving into a range of books, including Philip Pullman's enchanting tale, ‘The Firework Maker's Daughter’ and Michael Morpurgo's poignant narrative ‘The Butterfly Lion’, but also cultivated essential writing skills through exploration, reflection and creative expression. Their journey through diverse narratives and genres has equipped them with a profound appreciation for storytelling and a nuanced understanding of language, preparing them admirably for their continued academic and personal growth.
YEAR 5
This year, Year 5 students embarked on an exciting literary journey, exploring a wide range of themes, from ancient legends to modern classics. These included the epic tale of ‘Beowulf’; our study of ‘Sea Poetry’ brought the beauty and power of the ocean to life; ‘The Iron Man’ by Ted Hughes became a class favourite; and to round off the year, we immersed ourselves in ‘Swallows and Amazons’, enjoying a summer adventure with the Walker and Blackett children. It’s been a rich year of storytelling, where each new topic has expanded students’ love for literature and sharpened their writing skills. Here's to more adventures next year!
...Year 6 students demonstrated incredible growth in their writing skills...
YEAR 6
This year, our Year 6 students demonstrated incredible growth in their writing skills through a variety of exciting projects. From mastering the art of descriptive writing and exploring how to build tension and atmosphere in their gothic narratives topic, to delving into the text ‘A Long Walk to Water’, which allowed students to explore empathy and character development. They connected deeply with the characters' journeys, reflecting on the importance of understanding different perspectives. We were incredibly proud of all they achieved throughout the year!
WORLD BOOK DAY
A highlight of the Spring term is World Book Day that takes place in March. This gives the whole school, pupils and staff alike, the opportunity to bring their favourite characters to life, with an array of amazing outfits and costumes on display. A range of different activities take place throughout the day, engaging the children in some artwork, quizzes, treasure hunts and creative writing. And of course the all important sharing of books in some special buddy reading time.
MAKING MATHS FUN!
PRE-SCHOOL
Maths in Pre-School is about instilling in our young children a love for the subject, as well as increasing their knowledge and skills.
Alongside our daily maths meetings and our number of the week sessions, maths is included in many of the play activities, such as noticing patterns and shapes in nature, constructing different shapes out of kits, counting in twos using everyday objects and learning about capacity whilst playing with water or sand.
RECEPTION
White Rose Maths introduces foundational skills such as number recognition, counting, and basic operations like addition and subtraction. The curriculum is structured around five key areas: numbers, numerical patterns, measurement, shape and space. Each topic is approached through a combination of guided practice, independent activities, and real-world applications, promoting a deep understanding of mathematical ideas. Our approach to maths fosters problem-solving skills and critical thinking by challenging children to explore different ways to solve problems.
YEAR 1
Our Maths curriculum has covered a wide range of fundamental topics. Using White Rose Maths, the children have explored place value; delved into measurement, learning to compare and quantify length, weight, and volume; developed addition and subtraction skills to master basic arithmetic; learnt about 2D and 3D shapes, identifying and describing their properties; and position and direction were introduced, enabling students to follow and give instructions accurately. This comprehensive coverage has ensured that the children have a well-rounded understanding of essential mathematical concepts.
YEAR 2
This year, our Year 2 children followed the White Rose Maths Curriculum, emphasising pictorial and physical resources to deepen their understanding of mathematical concepts.
Topics included exploring place value, using number bonds and counting strategies; recognising and using coins and notes, practising making different amounts and giving change; measurement with activities involving rulers and measuring tapes; and an introduction to fractions through physical resources such as fraction circles and bars telling the time. Their confidence and proficiency in using mathematical language has grown significantly, as has their enjoyment and curiosity about the subject.
YEAR 3
...the work is carried out in bright, much more welcoming pre-printed books...
Our new White Rose Maths programme has been a hit with Year 3 from the start. No longer is time spent at the start of the lesson struggling to draw margins and set out work onto a daunting blank page. Instead there is a quick flashback reminder activity linked to the previous lesson, followed by a white board starter which warms up for the new day’s learning. Once the new or nextstep ideas have been introduced, then the work is carried out in bright, much more welcoming pre-printed books, which happen to be orange in Year 3. What a treat!
On top of this, we have been delighted to follow the escapades of Tiny, the turtle, who keeps making tiny mistakes! From Place Value to Statistics, the detailed curriculum has ensured great progress by all.
YEAR 4
Students have delved into a variety of new maths topics, aiming to inspire enjoyment and engagement through creative lessons. Adopting a mastery curriculum approach, the focus has been on fostering a belief in each child's potential as a mathematician and nurturing their resilience in tackling mathematical challenges. Teachers have made cross-curricular links to ensure learning is enjoyable and relevant. Regular practice of key mathematical techniques has been emphasised to embed fluency, competence, reasoning and logic, preparing students for solving increasingly sophisticated problems. Overall, the maths programme has been successful in making mathematics accessible and enjoyable for all students. It has provided them with the tools and confidence to approach mathematical problems with resilience and creativity, preparing them for future academic challenges.
YEAR 5
This year, our Year 5 students have truly excelled in their maths journey! We began by mastering Place Value, understanding the significance of each digit in large numbers; we moved on to perfecting our Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, and Division skills; and a major milestone was diving into Fractions and Decimals, where students learned how to simplify, convert and even add and subtract them! One of the year's highlights was our exciting trip to Bristol for the Junior Maths Challenge. Our students took on some tricky problems and showed fantastic teamwork, bringing home not only great results but also an enthusiasm for maths that will last a lifetime! Well done to Year 5 for a year full of maths achievements!
YEAR 6
This year, our Year 6 students excelled in Maths, building a solid foundation in key areas such as fractions, decimals, and percentages, while also tackling more advanced topics like algebra, ratio, and geometry. Through engaging, hands-on activities, they developed strong problem-solving skills and the ability to approach complex questions with confidence.
Their enthusiasm for Maths shone through as they embraced new challenges and worked collaboratively to deepen their understanding. A particular highlight of the year was the excellent performance our pupils gave at the ‘International Maths Challenge’ competition. One of our children surpassed a range of children up to four years senior to them! By the end of the year, all the children had demonstrated not only a thorough grasp of the Year 6 curriculum but also readiness for the next stage of their mathematical journey.
I’m good at drawing, especially different types of animals and creatures
I’d like to be a book writer and to go to school with my cousins
In the future I would like to have a dog and be a vet, architect or interior designer and definitely not a doctor!
I’d like to have my own bakery and my own crochet business
I’d like to be an author and illustrator
Great at playing the piano and art, especially painting
Playing football
I will be a professional footballer or manager
I am amazing at lego and rugby
I’m good at swimming, colouring, maths, Monopoly, playing pool and working
I’m good at drawing, colouring, chess and cars
Scooting, I can do lots of tricks, drawing and Science
WE CAN DO AND BE ANYTHING WE WANT…
One of the most important elements as a teacher in learning support is to discover children’s strengths and the areas they enjoy. With this knowledge, we can build on developing their confidence and self-esteem together, helping them to achieve in the subjects or with the skills that they find more challenging.
This year we asked each child two questions: What amazing things can you do now? and What would you like to do in the future? Here are just a few of their answers to those questions. Thank you to everyone and a special mention to our wonderful artist in Year 6 who helped to illustrate this page.
I’m good at getting information and data. Also gaming and hacking
Things I’m good at: Drums and being a Treehouse Designer, one of the treehouses is secret
I will be a professional event rider, a vet or beautician
Show jumping and eventing, Brazilian jujitsu
I’d like to work for my Dad at the yard, get a cat and go to Dubai on holiday
I'd like to be a professional musician like the Guns n Roses kind
I will make a company called Rainbow Pizza, the outside is going to be normal. The sign is going to be a rainbow wheel with a pizza box on the front. On the inside the chairs are going to be different colours like a rainbow and even the clock will be like a rainbow
I would like to be involved in demolition
I want to be an actor, travel to Japan and South Africa
Playing football and tennis
I want to be a scientist
Skateboarding and biking
Maths, sailing in Bristol harbour and hockey
The monkey bars, making up stories in my head
Drama, art and LAMDA
I want to play cricket for Australia
I’d like to be an engineer, farmer or teacher
I’d like to be exploring places, looking for hurt or injured animals and taking them to the vet
I want to be a chef with an ice-cream van with a trailer on that does brunch. I will cook the food and do the ice-creams afterwards
I am going to be a professional footballer, I would love to watch Christiano Ronaldo play football
Playing cricket and paintballing
Amazing things I can do: cooking, gymnastics, crochet, swimming and bodyboarding big waves
KPS SCIENCE
PRE-SCHOOL
Pre-School have loved having lots of visitors this year to help them learn more about the world around them. They have enjoyed talks by bee keepers, doctors and dieticians, and a special science workshop from students in the Senior School, which included lots of rather spectacular bangs!
RECEPTION
During both our ‘Animals’ and ‘Climate Change’ topics, we explored concepts like recycling, conserving water, and the significance of plants and animals in our ecosystem. This fostered a sense of responsibility and encouraged the children to think about simple ways they can help the environment, such as picking up litter or planting seeds. We were even lucky enough to have a visit from Zoolab, who showed us their giant snails, snakes and rats.
YEAR 1
Children embarked on an exciting journey of discovery and hands-on learning, engaging in an interactive workshop with Dr Torrence Jenkins, with demonstrations to understand the mechanics of sound. Acting as particles and experimenting with tuning forks, slinkies and stethoscopes, the children became budding scientists, learning how sound travels.
YEAR 2
The Year 2s explored the properties of materials through a range of scientific investigations; explored the workings of our eyes and ears through fascinating experiments, investigating how sound waves travel through air and solids; classified animals and constructed food chains; studied insects, plants, and habitats and finished the year with an amazing trip to Slimbridge Wetland Trust.
...there is an energy in the Science room that keeps it fresh and exciting...
YEARS 3-6
Educational research tells us that children who actively participate in lessons - who take more of an interest in the topic - are more likely to achieve higher levels of learning. A real-life, hands-on experience has always underpinned Science lessons at KPS, but it is nice to read that the research reinforces our approach. When children have agency in lessons, they are more motivated. Fostering a sense of purpose to learning, and inspiration to think creatively, has been key to lessons and I think it shows: there is an energy in the Science room that keeps it fresh and exciting for me as much as for the children!
We have flown off on some fascinating tangents; designed experiments I’ve never seen before; had some wonderful ‘thought experiments’ about space; grown and eaten oyster mushrooms in
the fungi topic; hatched chicks; tried to hatch giant African land snails; grown plants under a multitude of different conditions; cultured the mould spores from our hands; dissected hearts; inflated lungs; and studied bones, molluscs and reptiles first hand – and way, way more! It has been a riot of scientific fun and exploration.
I asked the children to sum up their year in one word, and I am delighted to say that ‘fun’ and ‘interesting’ were the top two. More than 80% of the children said they wanted to have a career that involved Science in some way; there was no gender divide.
Here are few pictures from the year. Enjoy!
MFL - WORKING WITH & BEYOND THE CURRICULUM
At KPS we continue to instil a love of learning languages from Nursery through to Year 6. Children are given the opportunity for independent, group and teacher-led tasks as well as an exposure to listening, speaking, reading and writing. Working both with and outside of the curriculum creates a more enhanced and varied learning programme.
Year 1 started their learning with what makes France famous. We looked at French monuments and food, then created a lovely collage.
In Year 3, the curriculum includes de-coding dinosaur names with the creative task of thinking up their own ‘new’ dinosaur as well as make Top Trumps cards, followed by an introduction to etymology by looking at common root words. Children also earned their ‘French pen licence’ by carefully forming lower and upper case letters in the same way as French children would be taught. A favourite this year though has been looking at some chocolate recipes in French and some even tried them out at home.
Year 5 learnt about life at the Roman Baths as well as delving deeper into Latin root words, prefixes and suffixes. Other aspects beyond the curriculum across the year groups included poetry, stories in the target language, as well as festivals and traditions.
INDEPENDENT LEARNERS
From Year 3 upwards, children have been introduced to CGP language workbooks and they are a real hit. They can choose to work independently or in pairs to complete tasks and learn to use vocab help in their books rather than asking an adult. From Year 4, children are given a key vocabulary sheet which they can refer to during lessons. This is a tool we also use at the senior school and helps children gain more independence when wanting specific vocabulary or if they’re looking to extend their sentences further.
INTERNATIONAL LANGUAGES DAY
In May, the whole KPS community celebrated International languages day. The focus was on education around the world and the day started with an assembly where we shared stories of staff who have lived and worked abroad. Classes researched the similarities and differences between school life in the UK and around the globe, learning some key vocabulary along the way. From lunch menus and timings of the day to subjects studied and access to education, it was a true journey of discovery.
EEP NEWS
From MFL crafts to BSL, languages clubs have added to the positive and fun experiences children have in the classroom. Across the year groups we have created paper chain snakes, Picasso and Matisse masterpieces, a Notre Dame rose window, Spanish bull and some beautiful origami tulips.
In BSL, children have particularly enjoyed the SignSing videos, learning sign language through popular chart songs. In the summer term, children honed their skills in Boules club – watch out Queen Square, there are a few future stars in the making!
YEAR 5 GERMAN PEN PALS
Year 5 classes were very excited to be given the opportunity to write to ‘real’ people!
Our wonderful German assistant, Miss Schnetzer, arranged for all classes to have a German pen pal. Using a writing frame for sentences about favourite food and drink, physical description and key questions, children wrote and decorated beautiful letters and waited (impatiently!) for their replies. We received replies and photos of their schools and classrooms, which brought their learning to life.
STEM
What an incredible year of STEM learning we've had! Let me share some highlights of what your children have been up to across the years.
...continue to be amazed by your children's enthusiasm and creativity in STEM.
YEAR 1
It has been an exciting journey into the world of technology and programming. The children delved into programming animations using a program on the iPads called ScratchJr. They discovered how to move characters on-screen using commands and investigated how blocks can be joined together and how to use a ‘Start’ block to run their programs. Additionally, they learned how to add backgrounds and delete sprites, enhancing their digital creativity. Other topics included an introduction to programming with Bee-Bots, where children practiced giving commands and sequencing, and developing essential word processing skills. They learnt how to use the mouse and keyboard proficiently, as well as writing and editing text, building a strong foundation for future ICT learning.
YEAR 2
Children have gained the skills to design, build, create and review what they have made. They had to investigate as many ways as possible to join two pieces of paper together to create a scary spider in a dungeon and wove materials cut to a specific length to make a pennant. They even made levers for dragons to pop out of an egg. Learning to sew was a new skill for many and they made and decorated the most amazing egg cosies and Christmas robin decorations! They had the opportunity to make their own picture frame by measuring the wood and sawing it to length before learning how to assemble the pieces together to make their frame. They also had the task of designing and making a moving vehicle for Toad of Toad Hall using axles and wheels. The children had great fun testing these on different surfaces and down a slope to review their designs and decide how to improve them.
YEAR 3
Meanwhile, Year 3 had possibly the most delicious STEM project, designing a new chocolate bar. They use 3D printing and vegetables to help them make them! Who said engineering couldn't be tasty?
YEAR 4
Year 4 have been our renewable energy champions this year, designing wind turbines using 3D modelling. They've also shown their entrepreneurial spirit through their fundraising project, managing to raise an amazing £1,200 for FoKPS - well done!
YEAR 5
In Year 5, we've seen some brilliant robotics work. The children have really thrown themselves into designing and programming their robots, and it's been wonderful to see how they've learned to troubleshoot and problem-solve together when things don't quite go to plan (which, as we learnt, happens quite often!).
YEAR 6
Our Year 6s jumped into app development, creating their own mobile applications to solve real-world problems. It's been fantastic watching them transform from users of technology to actual creators - and their innovative ideas would give some tech startups a run for their money!
MUDDY STILETTOS WINNERS
KPS is delighted to announce that it has received the National Excellence in STEM Award from Muddy Stilettos Education.
This recognition highlights the outstanding achievements of its students and the dedication
of its teaching staff. Special thanks go to Dr. TJ, Mrs. Fox, and the wider team for their collaborative efforts in securing this accolade.
A standout moment this year was seeing students analyse building designs, confidently explaining how location and features interconnect. Their growing analytical skills are a testament to their hard work and progress.
Next year, the School will introduce new STEM projects for Years 3-6, focusing on sustainability and the Sustainable Development Goals.
These initiatives aim to foster innovative thinking and a deeper understanding of sustainability. Parents working in related fields are invited to share their expertise and support these exciting projects.
The students continue to impress with their enthusiasm and creativity in STEM. Beyond technical knowledge, they are building essential skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and resilience. The School thanks parents and the community for their invaluable support and looks forward to another year of innovation and success.
...building essential skills such as teamwork, problemsolving, and resilience.
RECEPTION
The ‘People Who Help Us’ topic provided the children with a valuable understanding of various community roles and professions that contribute to society. Our topic on ‘The Past’, introduced the children to the concept of history and how things have changed over time. Through stories, photographs, and an exciting ‘Grandparent’s Morning’, the children explored everyday life in the past, including how families, schools, and toys looked in previous generations.
HUMANITIES
YEAR 1
We have explored three fascinating topics: ‘Woodland Wonders’, ‘Let's Go Up, Up, and Away’ and ‘What's Under the Ocean Splash’. Each topic has been brought to life through engaging activities and immersive learning experiences, including exciting day trips corresponding to each theme. The children ventured to Westonbirt Arboretum to discover the wonders of nature in Autumn, studying leaves and trees and finding foxes dens and badgers sets. In the Spring term we visited Bristol Aerospace to explore the marvels of flight, and in the Summer took a trip to the Bristol Aquarium to delve into the mysteries of the ocean.
It's been a year full of discovery and excitement.
YEAR 2
The Year 2 children have been really inspired by our topics this year. They have been keen to discover and question the world around them. Through the topics they have learned where people and events they studied fit within a chronological framework and identified similarities and differences between ways of life in different periods. From a visit from The Black Knight to a visit to the Swindon Steam Museum, it has been a year of discovery and adventure, fostering their love for learning and exploration.
YEAR 3
In Year 3, we embarked on an exciting exploration of Chocolate, Dinosaurs, and South Africa, building our Geographical and Historical skills along the way! We journeyed through time, sequencing key events from prehistoric eras, and even created comic-style scenes of the asteroid impact that changed the dinosaurs’ world. Learning about fossils brought the past to life, and we loved using maps and atlases to locate countries, capitals, and even places we’ve visited. Turning coordinate plotting into games and playing Bingo to learn OS map symbols made every lesson a fun adventure. It’s been a year full of discovery and excitement!
YEAR 4
Year 4 came alive with discussion on our ‘Active Planet’. Children made popcorn volcanoes, snack tectonic plate boundaries, volcano cakes and plasticine planet earth models. Visiting Planet Dome experts allowed the children to crawl into the centre of the earth and delve further into learning about its continents and construct, immersing children in the sounds and sulphurous smells of the inside of a volcano. The drama continued with our Day in Pompeii, as the children discovered what happened on the very day Mount Vesuvius erupted, and became historians by analysing artefacts brought in by a visiting history team.
YEAR 5
It has been a year of excitement, new challenges and plenty of fun for Year 5. Topics included 'The Great, The Bold and The Brave', 'Lego', 'Weather and Climate' and ‘Rivers’ and ‘Georgians’.
Learning centred around the concept of legacy; how Lego has developed to become one of the most recognised global brands; how the shape of a river is always changing and how it changes the land through which it flows; and finally as we live in a Georgian town, we used the wonderful architecture and history that surrounds us, with a fantastic trip to No.1 Royal Crescent to boot!
YEAR 6
Humanities took us on an incredible journey across the globe. From the migration of people in Oceania to the rich wildlife of Africa, we explored diverse regions and fascinating topics. We delved deep into European history with an in-depth study of the Black Death and covered key regions like North and South America. Our curriculum introduced us to complex concepts, including population pyramids, globalisation, poverty, and tourism. A major focus was on developing effective research skills, helping us learn to work both thoroughly and efficiently. This all came together in our impressive summer projects, which were a fantastic way to round off an exciting year of learning.
WHY DOES PASTORAL CARE MATTER SO MUCH AT KPS?
Pastoral care extends beyond academics to encompass the emotional, social and mental well-being of children. At KPS we prioritise pastoral care and work to create a safe and supportive environment where students are valued and understood.
TA happy child, nurtured and supported... is more likely to thrive both academically and personally.
his sense of security helps students build resilience, form strong relationships and approach challenges with confidence. Our aim is to support all of our pupils to have a healthy view of themselves and to reach for their dreams. A happy child, nurtured and supported in all aspects of their personal development, is more likely to thrive both academically and personally.
There are many ways in which we create an environment where all children can be happy, inspired and believe in their true potential, and it begins with our three school rules: Be Kind, Be Kind, Be Kind.
We use our PSHE lessons, wellbeing sessions and circle time to explore a wide range of pastoral issues, such as building healthy friendships, how to take care of our mental health and to discuss strategies to overcome difficult situations.
Our buddy system, which pairs children with a child from a different part of the School, is a great way for our very youngest to benefit from friendships with older pupils and to have someone extra looking out for them.
Our pastoral tracking platform identifies hidden social-emotional risks that might otherwise go
undetected, equipping teachers to pro-actively target their support, and measure positive impact for our pupils.
We have Kindness Champions in every class who are trained to spot and think about how to support friends to be happy, and they encourage an inclusive classroom and playground. Playtimes are an extremely important part of our pastoral picture, and this is where many of the social skills necessary for healthy long-term friendships are acquired.
We have a rich and varied program of activities outside of the traditional learning environment, which we believe is a vital part of the pastoral experiences necessary to develop inquisitive young people. It ranges from exciting and topic-related day trips, to visiting speakers and workshops and to our residential trips for Years 3-6. These experiences are so enriching and valuable that many children come home with new skills, new friendships and a new understanding their own potential.
Some of our pupils have shared things that they find to be really helpful for their wellbeing at KPS:
”If you have worries, you can tell a teacher, or you could ask your friend to tell a teacher and they will help.” Ned (Year 1)
”I like playing hide and seek and tag with my buddy.” Charlotte (Year 1)
”If you feel like talking, there is always someone to help. But if you need some quiet time, there is always a nice place to go to relax.”
Connie (Year 6)
”It’s really good to have a worry box or a post-box so that you can let your teacher know you are worried, without doing it in front of the class.” Clemmie (Year 6)
”Residential trips are brilliant. There might be some bumps and worries beforehand, but at the end, I feel proud of myself and I’ve had so much fun.” Evelyn (Year 6)
”I have some trusted adults at school to talk to (Lottie Reception). My buddy plays games with me and looks after me.” Zacky (Reception)
”Kindness Champions are kind to others and they look for people who are sad. Then they ask them to join in. I think they are really important.” Laurie (Year 3)
”PSHE lessons help us to understand to respect people.” Ivo (Year 3)
”In my wellbeing lesson I learnt about playing music and meditating to feel calm, so I tried it at home and it helped a lot.”
Emmy (Year 3)
”I feel happy when I come back to school after a holiday because I get to see all my friends.” Sophia (Year 2)
We have a rich and varied program of activities outside of the traditional learning environment...
CELEBRATING A YEAR OF ARTISTIC GROWTH FROM RECEPTION TO YEAR 6
This year has been an exciting journey in art for our students from Reception to Year 6, as they have had the opportunity to explore their talents through progressive projects that challenge and inspire them.
As we reflect on this year, we celebrate the joy and positivity that each child has brought to their artistic journey. Their growth and enthusiasm are a testament to their creativity, and we look forward to seeing them continue to thrive as confident young artists!
RECEPTION
In Reception, children began their artistic adventure by delving into colour theory, starting with primary colours. They experimented with mixing colours and created charming clay penguins and imaginative papier-mâché rockets, setting the stage for a year filled with creativity.
YEAR 1
Year 1 students continued this exploration by developing their drawing skills through guided lessons on figures and undersea creatures. They also embraced global art, discovering intricate Paisley prints from India, which broadened their artistic perspectives.
YEAR 2
Year 2 unleashed their creativity by designing imaginative clay dragons, adding unique textures and choosing acrylic paints to highlight their themes.
Their beautiful river creatures were crafted using grid method drawings, which helped them understand proportions, and they enhanced these works with expressive paint strokes, resulting in stunning pieces that showcased their developing skills.
Art Club
YEAR 3
Inspired by the rich culture of the Aztecs, Year 3 students crafted ceramic cups and honed their drawing skills with dinosaur images. They learned to focus on proportions and tonal aspects by breaking down their subjects, using quarters of the page to tackle complexity. This approach not only improved their drawing techniques but also built their confidence in handling challenging subjects.
YEAR 5
As students progressed into Year 5, they continued to advance their proportional drawing skills by creating large-scale close-ups of Greek gods and mythological creatures using chalk and charcoal. This hands-on experience helped them grasp realistic tone and texture, while their abstract projects—created while listening to Holst’s "The Planets"—allowed them to express their emotions visually. The year culminated in delicate river animals inspired by artist Helen Stanfield, where they used intricate patterns and delicate lines with expressive green and blue backgrounds to create stunning pieces.
YEAR 4
Meanwhile, Year 4 students explored prints inspired by hot and cold patterns linked to their Active Planet topic. They created beautiful prints and illustrated book covers for ”The Butterfly Lion,“ showcasing their understanding of design and composition. Their detailed embossed Egyptian gods were particularly impressive, catching the light beautifully and demonstrating their attention to detail.
YEAR 6
Finally, Year 6 students showcased their mastery of advanced clay techniques by designing unique Tiki masks, selecting specialty glazes to enhance texture and detail. Their compositions of African animals, inspired by TingaTinga art, encouraged exploration of overlapping and depth, allowing them to push their creative boundaries further.
KPS ART GALLERY
A YEAR OF DRAMA AT KINGSWOOD PREP SCHOOL
SPOTLIGHT ON TALENT AND CREATIVITY
The 2023-2024 school year has been an exceptional one for Drama at KPS.
From the very youngest students to those preparing for their transition to Senior School, everyone has been deeply immersed in the world of performance, creativity and teamwork. Through a diverse range of performances, workshops, and extracurricular activities, our students have had the chance to hone skills that go beyond the stage— confidence, communication and collaboration. Here's a look at the incredible drama journey our pupils embarked on this year.
PRE-PREP & NURSERY: MAGICAL NATIVITY PRODUCTIONS
The festive season saw our youngest pupils in Pre-Prep and Nursery deliver heart-warming Nativity productions that charmed everyone in attendance. These delightful performances brought the magic of Christmas to life, with every child involved in singing, dancing, and acting. Their enthusiasm and joy were infectious, and the nativities became a highlight of the holiday season, showcasing the incredible talent and confidence budding in even our youngest performers.
YEAR 3: FOCUS, TEAMWORK, & PROJECTION
Year 3 students made great strides this year, focusing on developing essential drama skills like projection, teamwork, and focus. Their progress was evident during the Music and Drama Concert at the end of the year, where they delivered a delightful mix of acting and musical performances. This concert provided the perfect platform for them to showcase the skills they’ve honed throughout the year, setting a strong foundation for future drama endeavours.
THE LION, THE WITCH & THE WARDROBE
DRAMA CLUB
YEAR 4: EXPLORING EXPRESSION & SNOW WHITE
The Year 4 students spent the year learning how to communicate effectively on stage, with a focus on body language, facial expressions, and script interpretation. These skills came together beautifully in their end-of-year musical production, A Hint of Snow White. Every child participated, and their hard work and dedication resulted in a magical performance that showcased their growth as young actors.
YEAR 5: GREEK CHORUSES, STAGE COMBAT, & BRITISH CLASSICS
Year 5 students had an action-packed year exploring a wide range of drama techniques. They delved into the world of ancient Greek theatre, learning the importance of working as an ensemble through Greek choruses. They also mastered stage combat, understanding the art of creating drama in a safe and controlled way.
The Year 5 productions were a highlight of the year, including Treasure Island, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and Alice Through the Looking Glass. Each play offered a different challenge, from swordfights on the high seas to Shakespearean comedy and the whimsical world of Wonderland.
YEAR 6: A YEAR OF BRITISH CLASSICS & SHREK
Year 6 students kicked off the year by diving into half-hour adaptations of British literary classics, taking on some of the most beloved works from our cultural heritage. From the eerie mystery of The Hound of the Baskervilles to the romantic wit of Pride and Prejudice, the intense drama of Macbeth, and the timeless moral tale of A Christmas Carol, the Year 6 pupils embraced the challenge of bringing these stories to life. Their ability to interpret complex characters and plots impressed teachers and audiences alike.
Drama wasn’t confined to the stage, though. In lessons, Year 6 students developed their public speaking and interview techniques through interactive workshops. These culminated in an exciting event where Sixth Formers from the Senior School visited to ‘interview’ the Year 6 pupils for their dream jobs. This experience reinforced the importance of drama skills in real-world scenarios, helping students build confidence in their communication abilities.
The year concluded with a memorable performance of Shrek: The Musical in the Senior School Theatre. Every student in Year 6 took part, and the vibrant production was a fitting and fun farewell as they prepared to move up to Senior School.
LAMDA REHEARSALS
MUSICAL HIGHLIGHTS
Music runs through the Prep School at every age, with participation and fun encouraged at every level. The dedicated Music Room often hosts spectacular concerts for children of all abilities to showcase their skills, with music also playing an intrinsic part of the year group plays and performances put on throughout the year.
PRE-SCHOOL
Pre-School learnt songs about the seasons and have been playing all sorts of instruments, large and small, to each other. They also enjoyed their graduation concert at the end of the summer term.
RECEPTION
Reception children had great fun working on songs about water. They explored and played large instruments such as the cello, the djembe drums and the large xylophone. A number of children also enjoyed the start of individual music lessons on a range of instruments. A highlight of the year is always the Nativity show in the School Chapel to get everyone in the festive spirit.
YEARS 1 & 2
Years 1 and Year 2 had a fantastic time playing drums and other instruments with each other. Their songs focussed on a story called ‘You Are Special’ by Max Lucado, with some pupils taking part in a performance to parents in an informal concert in the music room, plus a special final assembly in the last week of term to perform their songs to the parents.
YEAR 3
Year 3 have been learning about African folk songs this term, to fit in with their topic on Africa. They will perform both songs and instrumental pieces in their drama and music concert in the final week of term.
YEAR 6
Throughout Year 6 there are several opportunities for the choir to perform, including at Christmas when they sing at Stratton House to the residents and perform Christmas carols at the Kingswood Community Christmas Supper. It was a truly magical start to the Kingswood Christmas celebrations!
An absolute highlight was the performance of Shrek, which allowed for a wonderful term of collaboration and learning together on how to perform a really brilliant, hilarious musical on a professional stage. The level of performance achieved by all of them was awe-inspiring for the younger children and the teachers too. What a way to finish their time at the Prep School!
YEAR 4
A highlight for Year 4 was their production of ‘A Hint of Snow White’. It was a really fabulous musical and they can all be truly proud of their confident performances.
YEAR 5
Year 5 had a great time performing pieces and songs for each other within their class groups. They brought their instruments into school and they had some super informal concerts together. From this, several children requested new instrumental or singing lessons for Year 6. They also focussed on singing together, enjoying a mix of pop songs and songs from musicals.
KPS PHYSICAL
A love of sport is something we all crave for all our children. Our programme is truly inclusive, creative and enjoyed by every single child at KPS.
Like all other areas of the School, we are aiming high with our sport and by Year 6 our pupils are entering National Tournaments and festivals. We play, compete and do very well in a wide range of County and South West U11 competitions and have had some wonderful days out at National Competitions. Staying humble and knowing the best 11 year old sports person seldom remains the best 18 year old is a key message that we teach the children at KPS; you have to keep working tirelessly if you wish to get to the top of any sport. Healthy exercise and a love of sport at whatever level is equally an aim of our excellent Department. There are so many rich opportunities for our children through sport at KPS.
...sport isn’t always about winning but showing up, persevering and embracing the moment.
A YEAR IN STORIES
RUNNING IN THE RAIN
On Friday 13th October, the skies opened just before the Cross Country relay race. Four teams braved relentless rain, sprinting in chaotic harmony. Parents cheered blindly, unaware of leaders or results - just urging everyone on. Soaked but undeterred, children ran their best, proving sport isn’t always about winning but showing up, persevering and embracing the moment.
THE FRUIT STALL
Y1 pupils played a crocodile river game - until Dylan reinvented it. Suddenly, balls became "fruit" for a stall, and Dylan choreographed everything, from tossing techniques to fruit identification. His creativity turned a simple exercise into a vivid adventure, proving imagination transforms learning into joy.
HIGH-CLASS HULA HUTS
During Indoor Sports, children fiercely defended Hula Huts from opponents’ throws. Builders rebuilt fallen huts, strategists planned attacks, and throwers employed clever tactics like rebounds. Games evolved from seconds-long to epic battles, with teamwork and problem-solving at their core. A simple game became a lesson in collaboration and persistence.
THE DANCE OFF
A beloved Kingswood tradition, the Dance Off transforms the School every Christmas. In 20 minutes, six dances are choreographed and performed with infectious enthusiasm. Students and staff alike
step out of comfort zones to share pure joy, embodying the School's spirit of creativity and community.
Y3 SWIMMING RELAYS
The Y3 relay gala embraced mass participation, not competition. Without spectators or strict rules, pupils swam enthusiastically - some with noodles, others impressively unaided. Chaos reigned, but so did joy. The event encouraged effort, teamwork and a love for swimming without pressure, proving fun is the best motivator.
JUST DANCE IN EARLY CARE
Every morning, Y4-6 pupils transform the hall into a dance floor to "Just Dance" classics, letting loose and embracing the joy of movement. Fridays are special: only the most beloved tracks like Waka Waka and YMCA are played. A social, exhilarating start to the day.
THE PERFECT FIXTURE
A sunny Wednesday saw 15 cricket matches involving every Y5-6 pupil. Formats varied, mixing genders and schools for maximum participation. Games were thrilling, with camaraderie and excitement eclipsing results. It was inclusive, engaging and joyous - everything school sport should be.
CAT AND MOUSE
In "Cat and Mouse," Year 3s gave their all, sprinting or enduring to evade opponents. One boy ran countless laps, pushing himself to exhaustion - not for prizes but pure drive. The game showcased intrinsic motivation, proving play inspires kids to excel.
BETTER PEOPLE MAKE BETTER PLAYERS
‘Belgies’, a cricket-rounders hybrid, captivated students. Intense games demanded strategy, adaptability and teamwork. With every catch and wicket, players grew emotionally and mentally - coping with frustration, encouraging peers and solving problems. It wasn’t just a game; it was life skills in action.
EMPATHY IN ACTION
In Y6 rugby, a new boy struggled. Classmates ensured he got the ball and when he ran for a try, they chased but didn’t catch him. Without guidance, they understood his need for confidence. Their empathy turned a simple game into a powerful, unspoken lesson.
THE HEDGEHOGS’ NEST
In the Hedgehogs' Room, we provide a warm, safe environment where babies can develop and flourish. Our key person approach fosters strong, secure attachments, which are essential for emotional growth, self-expression and confidence. We offer a mix of openended resources and planned activities to nurture curiosity and learning.
Grounded in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), our routines support physical, cognitive and social development. Babies explore the environment, developing gross motor skills in the nursery and school grounds. Sensory experiences, like using cutlery, foster fine motor skills and independence. Through activities like water play, babies engage in hands-on learning, enhancing their understanding of cause and effect. We are privileged to witness their growth and discovery every day.
Through activities like water play, babies engage in hands-on learning...
THE SQUIRRELS’ DREY
The outdoor space... supports physical development and creativity.
The Squirrels’ Room, for children aged 18-27 months, provides a warm, nurturing environment that promotes safety, security and well-being.
We focus on developing communication, language, social skills, and independence through sensitive interactions and open-ended learning opportunities. The outdoor space, including a large sandpit, mud kitchen, bikes and trikes, supports physical development and creativity.
Daily outdoor education is a key part of the routine, fostering exploration and independence. The children also experience their first Forest School sessions, enhancing stamina and enjoyment in nature. We introduce Sing and Sign to aid communication and use Makaton to support children’s language skills. Activities like rhyme time and yoga help build coordination and rhythm, making every day fun and engaging in the Squirrel’s Room.
THE FOX’S DEN
In the Foxes’ Den, our focus is on providing exceptional early childhood experiences through messy, creative play and open-ended learning opportunities.
We emphasise outdoor exploration, where children develop physical skills and coordination while engaging with nature. We encourage risktaking activities, helping children build confidence, emotional resilience and problem-solving skills. Adopting the motto "There’s no such thing as bad weather, just wrong clothes," we ensure children enjoy outdoor play in all conditions, exploring mud, sand, water and natural materials. The children love learning about wildlife, observing insects and connecting with nature. They also enjoy picnics and visits from the classroom pets, like Darwin the tortoise. It’s been a year full of growth, exploration and excitement in the Foxes Room.
The children love learning about wildlife, observing insects and connecting with nature.
FUN TIMES AT THE GARDEN
GOODBYE TO YEAR 6!
What a year it has been for Year 6.
T...they have particularly stood out in their kindness and support for one another.
his cohort of children have left a truly magnificent impact on our community and will be sorely missed. However, we know they are certain to astound us with the new adventures they have now begun. It was a remarkable year that will live long in the memory.
They have been outstanding representatives for the school and represented Kingswood with distinction; whether it was abseiling down a cliff face in North Wales, investigating Native American artefacts or performing as fairytale characters as part of their Shrek Production. The year ended with plenty of smiles and a few happy tears as the children bade farewell to another after our poignant end of year celebrations.
They have grown such a lot as young people, starting to discover passions and interests which will shape them in the upcoming years and form relationships which are sure to last well into their teenage life. As a group of children, they have particularly stood out in their kindness and support for one another. The staff have been amazed by the empathy and inclusivity displayed all year by children so young. To possess such lovely interpersonal skills at their age will be invaluable to them as they navigate through modern life and it has been wonderful to observe the safety they have found in friendships.
It is always bittersweet to say goodbye to Year 6, but we wish them the very best for the future!
