St Margaret’s Prep

NEW CURRICULUM AT ST MARGARET'S PREP

It's been a busy first half of the year at ST MARGARET'S PREP in Calne...

The new academic year kicked off with the launch of a newly revised curriculum at St Margaret’s Prep. In Pre-Prep, the Autumn term began with the launch of the new 2+ Bluebird Nursery and the grand opening of their newly renovated Early Years Courtyard. Nursery and Reception children have been embracing this new outdoor learning space and have been enjoying the many outdoor learning opportunities it provides.

In Year 1, the Autumn Term saw the launch of two new topics – ‘Marvellous Me’ and ‘Park Life’. The children enjoyed engaging Hook Days complemented by trips and visits to immerse them in their learning and their new thematic approach. Year 2 children enjoyed learning all about the Great Fire of London through their ‘London’s Burning’ topic which culminated in a real-life re-enactment of the great fire itself. Following this, they then launched their newly revised Science topic, ‘Amazing Animals’, which even included a visit from various creepy crawlies to bring their learning to life!

In the Prep department, curriculum changes mean that the children are now taught wider curriculum subject areas (History, Geography and Science), in blocked units in order to really investigate subject areas in depth and to support knowledge retention. Year 3 enjoyed fascinating units studying the Stone Age, Rocks and Soils and Earthquakes, which included a fun-filled Stone Age Day, creating pneumatic models in DT and a trip to Avebury. Year 4 children threw themselves into their studies surrounding the Anglo Saxons and the Digestive System. This linked nicely with the DT curriculum which saw the children expand their cookery skills culminating in the design and production of delicious soup recipes.

Up in Year 5, pupils explored the topics of Climate Change, Keeping Healthy and The Tudors. A fabulous Tudor day saw some incredible costumes and even a re-enactment of the battle of Bosworth! Despite working hard towards their Senior School entrance exams and interviews, Year 6 pupils managed to still demonstrate their commitment to their studies by exploring the themes of Fair Trade, Electricity and World War 2 in their wider curriculum. The easing of Covid restrictions meant that they were able to throw themselves in to their Science work by visiting the St Mary’s Calne Science Labs whilst World War 2 Day saw another amazing array of costumes and activities planned to bring their learning to life!

If you'd like to see more about the school, St Margaret's is hosting an Open Morning on 17 March. Head to the website for details.

• stmargaretsprep.org.uk

"Year 2 children enjoyed learning all about the Great Fire of London through their ‘London’s Burning’ topic which culminated in a real-life re-enactment of the great fire itself."

NEW STAGECOACH FROME LAUNCHED!

Are you looking for a safe, creative, and family focused community for your child to thrive? Due to popular demand, Stagecoach Performing Arts Frome is opening another fabulous school this April. Stagecoach delivers singing, dance and drama classes to local young people who love performing, making new friends, and embracing all their creative potential.

Chris and Freddie opened their first school in Frome back in 2018. Since then, demand for performing arts classes has exploded, and following the pandemic even more parents want their child to build confidence, socialise and have fun in a nurturing environment where they can be themselves.

The new school will open on Saturday 23 April and will run between 1.45pm-4.45pm every Saturday in term time for ages 6-16 years. Stagecoach Frome operates from The Selwood Academy. Students attend the popular classes from Frome, Westbury, Warminster, Shepton mallet, Wells and Bruton. The 3-hour school is a perfect amount of time for students to really feel part of something special but also gives parents substantial time off! Lots of siblings attend Stagecoach, reflecting the feel-good family environment on offer.

An OFSTED registered childcare provider, fees can be paid via tax-free childcare and vouchers. To book a two-week trial, starting on 23 April, go to the website.

• stagecoach.co.uk/frome

Stagecoach is a great way to help children build confidence

LOVELY HALL TO HIRE FOR REGULAR USERS Ideal for exercise classes of all kinds:

Keep fit, children’s and adult dance, also regular business meetings, presentations, slimming clubs, theatre & film clubs etc.

All enquiries www.wallingtonhall.co.uk

or John Pearson 01225 863666 / 07814 029546 Church Street, Bradford on Avon BA15 1LN