Lower School

Founded in 1978, the Lower School gives children from 3 years of age the opportunity to benefit from the distinctive Moor Park education. It has developed into a happy, flourishing extension of the school, singled out for high praise in recent OFSTED reports where the Early Learning was judged 'Outstanding'. The classes are housed in attractive rooms, including a library and assembly hall. Children also benefit from the facilities that come with a good prep school, such as the sports hall, the Henderson Hall (for dance, drama, PE), chapel, art room, ICT suite and of course the acres of playing fields and woods, where they can explore and invent new worlds.

Approximately half of our intake arrives in Nursery, Kindergarten and Reception.  The vast majority rise through the school to leave at the end of Year 8 aged 13.  It may seem a long time but it passes remarkably quickly!

While there is much emphasis on English skills and number work in the Lower School, the curriculum is broad. Small, intimate, parallel classes with qualified teachers ensure that pupils reach their potential with individual attention. There is much emphasis on personal development: children are encouraged to develop a compassionate attitude towards others. 'Respect' and 'trust' are much used words. Self-discipline and independence are promoted.

Year 3 is a 'transitionary year', being part of the Lower School while adopting some of the challenges of the Upper School.

There is daily after-school care to 18.30 available for all Lower School children.  This is free for children with older siblings at the school.

We believe that, whatever the age, children grow in confidence through performance. Lower School children perform for parents and friends on many occasions during the year: poetry performances, the Christmas play, 'Easter Extravaganza' in the Lent Term and the Year 3 play in the Summer Term.

Sport is also important.  The Children have a PE lesson once a week, and one of the highlights of the Lower School Year is the Lower School Sports Day, where every child participates in all sorts of fun events.  By Year 3, the children are playing the more traditional sports expected of a Prep.School, with the introduction of rugby, hockey, netball and football.

Above all the Lower School is a happy place for your child to begin his or her educational journey - we look forward to sharing this with you.

Please click here to see the Structure of the Lower School day