The Junior Prep Years

Year 3 and Year 4 are very important, transitional years at The Elms. The children continue to develop independence in their learning and they are gradually introduced into the main school protocols and logistics. This gentle induction allows the children to maintain the self-confidence nurtured in earlier years, and to feel more grown up and responsible for themselves.

Lunchtimes enable them to take responsibility for others, as Year 4 pupils assist with laying and clearing tables, pouring water, and helping the younger pupils.

In Year 3 and 4 the children are very much in the care of their Form Teachers for the majority of their timetable, but they begin to have even more contact with the rest of the Main School: moving to different parts of the school for lessons with specialist subject teachers, participating in Main School events and joining in with the Main School Clubs programme, which is optional at the end of the school day.

A unique feature of Year 4 is the option to attend the very popular Humphrey’s Club on a Saturday morning. This is run by the Year 4 Form Teacher and is designed as a gentle introduction to Saturday school. Year 4 enjoy the option of being able to board on a flexi or full boarding basis.