The Art Department at Repton Prep believes that everyone has a talent in some artistic discipline and that through our education, their talent will be discovered Our department is colourful and welcoming and a high standard of work is achieved by all age groups Pupils have the opportunity to explore media, such as painting, three-dimensional relief and sculpture work, filmmaking, installation, performance, sound, Photography and Textiles through mixed-media experiments and research Most recently, our facilities have been enhanced by a purposebuilt textiles and sewing area complete with Cricut, as well as a Design Hub.
At the end of Year 7, those pupils with a particularly strong interest and ability in this subject are invited to enter the scholarship programme We have a strong record of achieving Scholarships and Exhibitions to Senior Schools and the work produced by our scholars is regularly on display around the school
Each pupil has 60 minutes of Art every week in Years 3 to 6 and 80 minutes for half of each term in Years 7 and 8. Boarders are also able to work in the art room during some evenings in the week and on some Sundays
Classics Classics
At Repton Prep, we place great importance on the study of Classics. In Years 7 and 8, all pupils follow a blended course of Latin language and Classical Civilisation. Classical Greek can also be offered as an activity to pupils who express a keen desire to learn it In addition, Year 6 now benefit from an introductory Classics course focused on word derivation and classical history, in order to provide solid foundations upon which to build in Years 7 and 8.
Latin
Our curriculum covers the basic elements of Latin language including cases and tenses, as well as a vocabulary of around 200 words, so that pupils should all reach a standard of Latin by the end of Year 8 that would enable further study to GCSE
Latin is the mother of modern languages such as Italian, French, Spanish, Portuguese and Romanian. Even in our own language, English, around 75% of our vocabulary is derived from Latin and Greek. It has been said that the study of Latin reaches the parts of the brain that other subjects on their own do not reach: it combines the logic of Mathematics, English, and Romance Languages
Classical Civilisation
Our aim in this aspect of the course is to introduce pupils to the world of Ancient Greece and Rome We hope to nurture in them an interest in the vast influence the classical world has on us today, in language, history, philosophy, art, architecture, technology, religion and democracy
Topics include the Trojan War, Greek and Roman Mythology, and various aspects of Greek and Roman daily life
Drama
The Drama department at Repton Prep offers all pupils the opportunity to express their creative and imaginative ideas both physically and verbally Our fantastic theatre provides an exciting environment in which pupils can develop their creativity, communication, and confidence.
Drama is taught to all pupils from Nursery to Year 8 by specialist teachers. Younger pupils develop their speaking and listening skills through both whole-class and smaller group collaborations, using a range of visual and text-based stimuli. Pupils learn how to develop their physical skills to portray character and emotion, whilst also developing confidence in showcasing their performance work to their peers. Technical elements such as sound, lighting and costume are also explored as pupils begin to understand how engaging theatre is created
When pupils reach Year 8, those who show significant ability in Drama maybe offered the opportunity to work towards a Scholarship entrance to Repton Senior School. These pupils are offered additional teaching to help prepare for these assessments
Many productions take place throughout the school year, including Christmas shows and summer concerts from both Pre-Prep and Prep students – working closely with the Music department to create collaborative pieces Students in Years 5 and 6 will audition for and take part in one Drama Showcase in the Summer term and Year 7 and 8 pupils will perform in one major production in the Lent term, auditioning for both acting and technical roles.
LAMDA
LAMDA lessons take place at Repton Prep on a rotation throughout the week with pupils working individually with our LAMDA teachers towards examinations outside of Drama lessons These lessons are charged
Examinations are offered for Prep pupils in a range of different disciplines including Speaking Verse and Prose, Acting, Devising and Speaking in Public.
Design and Technology
Design and Technology at Repton Prep offers pupils a dynamic and hands-on learning experience that nurtures creativity, problem-solving and technical skills. All pupils from Years 3 to 8 enjoy weekly D&T lessons, with extended sessions in Years 7 and 8 to allow for deeper exploration of design principles and practical application Pupils in Year 2 are also introduced to the subject through the Activities programme and in lessons
The department is housed in a well-equipped workshop that supports both traditional and modern design processes Pupils work with a range of materials and tools, including woodworking equipment, electronics, and computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technologies such as laser cutting and 3D printing. Robotics and coding are also embedded through participation in the First Lego League
The Design Lab and Textiles area have enabled the introduction of etextiles, allowing pupils to explore wearable technology and the intersection of electronics and fabric-based design.
In Year 8, pupils with a particular aptitude for the subject may be invited to pursue a Design & Technology Scholarship pathway to Senior School. These pupils receive additional teaching time and tailored support to develop their portfolios and project work to a high standard. They are also offered supervised access to the facilities when needed, ensuring they have the time and resources to refine their ideas.
Beyond the classroom, D&T is enriched through co-curricular opportunities such as the Greenpower Electric Car Challenge, where pupils design and race electric vehicles, First Lego League and STEM Racing, which promote innovation, teamwork and STEM learning in a competitive setting.
English
Our primary aim in English is to inspire and enthuse all pupils through sharing and studying a range of texts, from fiction texts, non-fiction texts, poems and plays – to writing for a wide range of purposes and audiences – to speaking and listening as individuals, in groups and in role. In addition, we seek to create and shape our curriculum so that it is enjoyable and relevant in the modern world.
Literacy underpins learning throughout the school and whilst we encourage our pupils to be creative and unique, our attention is sharply focused on written accuracy: namely ‘the basics’ of spelling, punctuation, and grammar This is clearly modelled in ‘real’ texts, and we encourage all children to read frequently and widely.
We are fortunate to have a wealth of resources within the department and an impressive library within Foremarke Hall itself, which is run daily by Mrs Colver, our librarian. In addition, we have several age specific libraries across the site. Our librarian supports the department by ensuring that we have up to date texts, book lists and displays to pique our pupils’ interests Similarly, she produces ‘The Word’ which is a short, weekly, in-house publication which is based on key events and themes throughout the year, offering and recommending texts of interest. Book club runs on a rota system during break and lunchtimes, and pupil librarians are appointed each year.
In each year group, teachers choose texts that they are passionate about and which they feel will suit their groups and sets Pupils therefore encounter a range of texts over the course of their academic careers here at Repton Prep.
We celebrate ‘National Poetry Day’ and ‘World Book Day’ annually and encourage pupils to enter writing competitions. Visiting authors and theatre companies are booked to come into school to give talks, workshops and performances, and when possible, we take pupils on trips to support their learning.
All pupils are invited to work towards reading challenges, which are outlined in the back of their planners. In the older years, we promote reading aloud through a rewards system We actively encourage our parents to listen to children of all ages and reading abilities read aloud each week and through these partnerships with home we can ensure progress and success for each child.
We work closely with other departments, especially: Drama, Personalised Learning (PL), English as an Additional Language (EAL) and the English Department at Repton School
English as an Additional Language
It is the aim of the English as an Additional Language (EAL) Department that pupils whose first language is not English will be given extra tuition so that they will become increasingly fluent in speaking, reading and writing English. They will be given the necessary support to help them to develop the academic skills required by their other subjects and to integrate fully into school life.
At the beginning of the academic year, all overseas pupils will be assessed in order to ascertain how much, if any, extra English tuition is needed Dependent on their level of English, students may join EAL lessons during timetabled English and/or French lessons. Pupils can also access support from the EAL department for help in all their curriculum subjects
Geography
At Repton Prep, our Geography curriculum is designed to ignite curiosity and foster a deep understanding of the world. We inspire pupils to explore both their local environment and their role within an increasingly interconnected global community.
A key focus of the curriculum is sustainability and global citizenship, enabling pupils to appreciate cultural diversity while developing an informed understanding of the environmental and social challenges shaping our world today
Our carefully structured curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including:
·Extreme Environments
Population and Settlement
·Tectonics
·Development and Global Inequality
Rivers and Coasts
·Oceans
Weather and Climate
·Tourism and Sustainability
Fieldwork is a central and distinctive feature of Geography at Repton Prep,
History
History at Repton Prep is taught to all pupils as a distinct subject throughout the school. In our teaching we aim to equip learners with both a profound interest in the past and the critical skills needed to think as historians. The curriculum provides pupils with a broad sweep of British history but also many opportunities to explore fascinating cultures and civilizations from across the world. Units of study are delivered with reference to the National Curriculum as well as the latest guidance from the Historical Association Planning follows a careful progression map of historical skills so that pupils leave Repton wellgrounded in source analysis and interpretation, as well as the ability to write clearly and coherently.
History lessons follow a chronological structure beginning in Year 3 and Year 4 with a study of the Stone Age and Ancient Civilizations. Themed days, school trips and external visitors all help to bring the subject alive for the younger pupils who consider topics as diverse and engaging as the mummification of Pharaohs and the diets of famous Gladiators.
Older pupils cover a broad range of topics designed to give them a thorough foundation in British history from the arrival of the Anglo Saxons to the death of Queen Victoria. Pupils march alongside William of Normandy as he conquers England; toil with the workers of the Industrial Revolution and campaign with the Suffragettes as they fight for their right to vote. Beyond this, however, pupils consider the contributions and achievements of contemporaneous cultures that have also shaped the world we live in today. Pupils in Year 5 for instance explore the many similarities and differences between daily life in Tudor England and the African Kingdom of Benin Likewise, pupils in Year 6 study the experiences of ‘Samurai William’, a real-life Stuart explorer who found himself marooned on the shores of Feudal Japan
For each unit of study, tailored reading lists of historical fiction and nonfiction books are produced so that pupils can deepen their knowledge and interest outside of lessons. A number of trips to sites of historical interest are planned and external speakers are invited to help inspire and link lesson learning. Our most able pupils are also provided with numerous opportunities to challenge themselves in national history competitions including annual entry into the prestigious Townsend Warner History Prize.
Computing
It is the aim of the Computing department to encourage confident and competent users of ICT who learn when and how to use technology. Repton Prep benefits from a campus-wide ICT network, access to Microsoft Office 365 and a range of software packages for all pupils.
Through a variety of experiences, we aim for each pupil to develop skills in communicating ideas through words, pictures, and sounds; entering, storing and classifying information; accessing and obtaining information and discovering skills useful to their own studies.
Two main computer suites lie at the heart of the network and it is here that Computing skills are taught as a part of the timetables for all Year 3 – Year 8 pupils The school has two purpose-built ICT suites as well as six bookable laptop sets that teachers can use in their lessons, ensuring that ICT is always available to support learning where it is required Many subject areas make use of ICT to enhance teaching and learning and all classrooms are equipped with interactive screens to aid learning. In Years 7 and 8, pupils have access to ICT facilities to complete their homework each night.
The use of ICT and computing is fully integrated across the school. By Year 8, pupils are comfortable applying skills to all areas of the curriculum It may be video analysis of their own sports performance, creating films for Geography topics or using programming skills to design, code and evaluate systems At Repton Prep we have a longestablished structure enabling children to work with computer systems with confidence and competence.
Our modern Computing curriculum adapts and grows each year with advances in technology, particularly in line with developments in AI for Education, to ensure that our pupils are equipped with the knowledge and skills to use ICT safely to support their work and development.
Mathematics
Our principal aim in teaching Mathematics is that all pupils will be encouraged to enjoy the subject and study it with a sense of achievement Our pupils achieve high standards in numeracy and a range of other mathematical skills and learn to apply these skills with confidence and understanding when solving problems
We feel it is important to develop an appreciation of the relevance of Mathematics in other areas of the curriculum and everyday life and to be able to think precisely, logically and creatively. Furthermore, it is our aim to encourage the ability to work both independently and within a group, as well as to work in an environment where it is acceptable to make mistakes and to be encouraged to use these mistakes to rethink and reexplore ideas and solutions
The Mathematics syllabus delivered from Year 1 follows the White Rose Scheme of Learning for Mathematics Mastery. In all years, pupils are supported and extended in their learning to reach their potential, irrespective of the class in which they work In all year groups we aim to provide a variety of activities to allow pupils to gain mastery of key numeracy concepts
Pupils in Years 5 to 8 receive their lessons from specialist staff Abilitybased setting is introduced at the start of Year 5, with pupils placed within classes to provide the best opportunities for mathematical growth and development
Mathematics in Pre-Prep, and in Years 3 and 4, is taught to mixed-ability groups
More able pupils participate in a number of National Mathematics challenges Pupils in Year 3 and 4 get their first experience with this via the First Maths Challenge competition. Top sets in Years 5 and 6 take part in the UK Primary Mathematics Challenge in November and any qualifiers sit the finals paper of the PMC in February. The more able pupils in Years 6, 7 & 8 participate in the UK Junior Mathematics Challenge in April and any qualifiers sit the UK Junior Mathematics Olympiad paper at the end of the academic year. A couple of Year 8 pupils join two pupils from Repton’s Year 9 to participate in the UK Mathematics Team Challenge.
All of this helps to promote a sense of curiosity and enjoyment as our pupils develop key Numeracy skills to cope with the modern age.
Modern Foreign Languages
The introduction of a foreign language to children of a young age enables them to experience something of the joy of another culture and language at a time when they are most receptive and responsive
French
French is taught by a dedicated team of enthusiastic and highly qualified specialists who create a very positive learning environment from Year 1 to Year 8 We work hard to achieve continuity throughout the school
In the earlier years (Years 1 and 2) there is specific emphasis upon speaking French using games, songs, stories and rhymes. Pupil learning is closely linked to understanding the language and culture of France and the French Speaking World via interactive software This serves to boost enjoyment and encourages the pupils to correctly imitate the sounds of the language.
As the pupils move into Years 3, 4 and 5 the emphasis remains very much on oral and aural skills. In Years 4 and 5 pupils are introduced to the ‘AIM’ total immersion course and at the end of each year the children put on a drama production, in French, using the language and skills they have acquired throughout the year Simple grammatical concepts are introduced through the language of the plays which makes learning French fun, rewarding and accessible to all.
In Years 6 – 8 pupils begin a more formal course in French which is the first step towards a GCSE style of learning Increasing attention is paid to the written form and at the end of each year, equal weighting in assessment is given to speaking, listening, reading and writing.
It is expected that teaching methodology will vary in order to be effective for each of the children This will mean catering for visual, auditory and kinaesthetic learning styles as well as creating a positive, challenging and rewarding environment. The languages department is very well resourced, and all pupils benefit from modern and innovative online resources and have the opportunity to work in a way which best suits their style of learning. Every two years, pupils in Years 6 & 7 have the opportuntiy to participate in a trip to France which is a total immersion experience aimed at improving their language skills, whilst having fun exploring a new culture.
Spanish
Spanish is introduced in Year 7 as a two-year course followed by all pupils It is very much an introduction to the language and skills which are required at GCSE and is loosely based around the ‘Viva’ course which is then continued at a higher level at Repton Senior School.
The course is modern and interactive and provides an excellent grounding in a second foreign language. Spanish is taught by subject specialists with a passion for the language and the culture of the Spanish speaking world; it provides an excellent introduction to a truly global language
Music
The Music Department at Repton Prep aims to encourage all pupils to actively participate in musical activities and to listen to music with interest, enthusiasm and an analytical ear We promote confidence and enjoyment in performance.
Music is a unique form of communication and is able to influence the way in which we feel, think and behave. As an integral part of culture, past and present, music assists pupils in understanding themselves and the way in which they relate to others. The teaching of Music develops pupils’ listening and appraising skills and their appreciation of music worldwide. Active involvement in music-making broadens social skills: Playing in an ensemble or singing in a choir helps to develop confidence and the all-important ability to listen We offer a broad and balanced curriculum, catering for all abilities and needs.
Pre-Prep
Specialist class Music lessons begin in Nursery and are enjoyed throughout the Pre-Prep Children also have the opportunity to start learning an instrument and advice can be given with regards to personal suitability at this age.
Pupils have the opportunity to perform to both their peers and parents at Music and Singing Assemblies and Pre-Prep Morning Concerts as well as end of term celebrations There is a Christmas Production which involves all pupils from Reception upwards. The Nursery perform their own special Christmas Nativity to their parents, which takes place in the Pre-Prep Hall
Prep
Each form in Years 3-8 receives one class Music lesson per week; musical development is based upon performance, theory/composition plus listening and appraising. Year 3 has a focus on strings and Year 4 has a focus on brass in the Lent term
Years 5 and 6 begin to explore the history of music, and start developing their understanding and application of composition and theory, whilst retaining and striving to develop a strong level of singing and instrumental performance Year 5 have a singing session each week to explore new repertoire.
Years 7 and 8 explore a variety of different styles of music from Samba to Film Music and the Blues. All topics continue to develop their understanding and appreciation of different styles of music
Additional ABRSM theory classes are organised each week to support instrumental learning and examination requirements
Many pupils learn to play a musical instrument at school and they are able to choose from a wide variety of instruments. Pupils have the opportunity to trial a specific musical instrument or vocal lessons with a visiting music teacher Numerous choirs and ensembles rehearse on a weekly basis and are presented with internal and external performance opportunities in the form of concerts, services and other performances taking place throughout the school year. There are ensembles to cater for all abilities and the Prepton Players allows pupils the opportunity to gain ensemble experience
There are choral opportunities for all
PSHE
The PSHE curriculum at Repton Prep aims to prepare pupils for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of modern life. Through a carefully sequenced and age-appropriate curriculum, pupils develop the knowledge, skills, values and confidence they need to keep themselves safe, build positive relationships, make informed choices and contribute positively to their school and wider communities This helps prepare them to move on to Senior School as thoughtful, responsible and resilient young people who are ready to make the most of the opportunities ahead.
PSHE is a highly valued subject at Repton Prep and is included as a timetabled subject for EYFS - Year 8 Pupils in Years 3 - 8 receive 60 minutes each week In Years 3 & 4, PSHE is taught by Form Tutors, while in Years 5-8 it is taught by subject specialist staff.
Pupils are encouraged to share their thoughts and views in a safe, inclusive and respsectful environment where they feel listened to and valued
Aims of the curriculum at Repton Prep:
To teach pupils to live healthily and safely, to make informed choices and to reflect thoughtfully on their experiences
To develop the wellbeing, confidence, resilience and self belief of our pupils.
To enable pupils to take responsibility for their learning, behaviour and future choices
To help pupils understand how to keep themselves and others safe, including when online, and to know how and where to seek trusted help
To develop each pupil’s understanding of healthy, respectful relationships and help them to manage a wider range of relationships responsibly as they grow up
To support pupils in understanding personal boundaries, consent, respect, privacy and the importance of treating others with kindness and dignity
To encourage pupils to be responsible and caring members of the school, local community and wider world
To promote respect for others and for the differences between people, families, beliefs and cultures.
To help pupils recognise and challenge stereotypes, prejudice, harmful attitudes and unsafe influences, including those they may encounter online.
To introduce pupils to careers education and financial understanding, helping them to develop aspirations, recognise their strengths, understand the value of money and make informed choices for the future.
To prepare pupils, in an age-appropriate way, for the moral, social, cultural and emotional dilemmas they may face as they grow towards adulthood.
Religious Studies
Religious Studies at Repton Prep is built around a single question that pupils return to every year: how do I make sense of the world and how do I live well with people who see it differently?
In keeping with the Christian foundation of the school, pupils explore the Christian tradition in real depth, but they also encounter Judaism, Islam, Sikhism, Buddhism, Hinduism and non-religious worldviews such as Humanism each taken seriously on its own terms rather than as a brief case study. Our aim is for pupils to leave us as confident, curious thinkers who can explain their own views, understand views they do not share, and disagree thoughtfully.
In Years 5 and 6, pupils study each of the major faiths and the lives of those who follow none through both scripture and lived experience. They read and discuss the texts that shape a tradition, and they also see how that tradition is actually practised: visiting a church at Easter, sharing in a Langar meal, and putting their own questions directly to members of local faith communities The emphasis throughout is on understanding belief as something people live, not simply something they hold
In Years 7 and 8, pupils begin to apply this knowledge to bigger questions about freedom, ethics, truth, suffering and the existence of God. They examine how different worldviews answer these questions, weigh those answers against one another, and learn to reach their own conclusions with reasons they can defend.
Running through all four years is a thread of philosophical enquiry (P4C), which gives pupils the tools to reflect on and discuss difficult questions with real rigour listening carefully, challenging ideas rather than people, and building arguments that shift based on evidence.
Science
We believe that pupils should explore science through hands-on practical activities. Science is taught as a standalone subject in classes from Year 3 upwards but from Year 5, pupils are encouraged to undertake their own experimental work in fully equipped laboratories with experienced specialist teachers supported by a qualified laboratory technician. We are keen to encourage their curiosity, independent thought and to take risks with their learning.
We aim to complete the Key Stage 3 Science Curriculum by the end of Year 8 and our scheme of work includes built-in extension activities for the most able pupils.
