Prep (7-11 years) - Chandlings Independent Prep School - Oxford

Year 3 (Age 7-8): Building Independence

Year 3 marks an important step in a child’s journey at Chandlings Prep as they begin to develop greater independence and self-confidence.

Broadening the curriculum

While they are still primarily taught by their Form Teachers, the curriculum broadens significantly. Children enjoy specialist lessons in the Science Labs, Digital Learning, Design Technology, and Food Tech, providing a rich and varied learning experience.

Ability

In Maths, children are grouped by ability to ensure they receive the right level of challenge and support. Sports become an integral part of school life, with an emphasis on learning through games rather than repetitive drills. Inter-school matches are introduced, with every child having the opportunity to participate in either mixed-ability or graded teams. Weekly swimming lessons continue, with athletics playing a bigger role in physical education.

Homework

Homework is introduced in Year 3, supported by a dedicated homework club to help children manage their time and responsibilities. Each child purchases their own Chromebook, equipping them with the tools to develop essential digital skills and support their independent learning journey.

Year 4 (Age 8-9): Confident Learners

In Year 4, children continue to grow socially and academically building on the independence they started to develop in Year 3.

More Responsibility

They are encouraged to take greater responsibility for their learning by organising their homework and managing their music lessons. This is a time when curiosity and a love of learning are fostered, with children exploring a wide range of subjects and activities that inspire creativity and critical thinking.

Sport

Sport continues to play an essential role, with matches becoming more competitive. Lessons focus on developing tactics and teamwork, while swimming sessions emphasise improving stroke techniques and introduce the basics of Rookie Lifeguarding. Through these activities children gain confidence in their abilities and learn to approach challenges with resilience.

Pastoral

Pastorally, the emphasis is on kindness and empathy. Teachers encourage children to support one another and develop the skills needed to build positive, lasting relationships with their peers.

Year 5 (Age 9-10): Teamwork and Growth

Year 5 is a year of personal and academic growth as children prepare for the challenges ahead. The year begins with a team-building trip to Land and Wave, where children develop friendships and a strong sense of camaraderie.

F0cus

Academically, the focus sharpens as children begin working towards their senior school entrance exams. Specialist teachers lead lessons, with children grouped by ability for Maths and English to ensure tailored learning experiences. At the same time, children are encouraged to find and nurture their passions, whether in academics, sports, or creative pursuits.

Sport

Sports take on a new dimension with competitive matches emphasising tactics and teamwork. Lessons are structured to enhance both individual skills and collective strategies, preparing children for more advanced gameplay. Beyond the classroom and playing field, children are supported in becoming more independent and organised, laying the foundations for success in their final years at Chandlings.

Year 6 (Age 10-11): Preparing for Life Beyond Chandlings

Year 6 is a pivotal year as children prepare for the transition to senior school and take on leadership roles within the school community.

First Term

In the first term the focus is on preparing for senior school exams, with lessons tailored to help each child achieve their academic potential. The process is designed to build resilience and confidence, equipping children with the skills they need for the next stage of their education.

Responsibility

As the oldest children in the school, Year 6 children take on leadership responsibilities serving as role models for the younger year groups. They are given opportunities to develop these skills through activities such as delivering tours on Open Mornings and participating in the Leadership Programme, which offers a range of roles and responsibilities.

Exams

After exams the curriculum broadens, offering children the chance to explore new interests and rediscover the joy of learning. Highlights include Skills Week, Young Enterprise projects, the Year 6 Play, and a residential trip to France. Sports remain a central part of school life, with Year 6 pupils representing Chandlings in flagship teams and setting high standards of enthusiasm, behaviour, and performance.

By the end of Year 6, children leave Chandlings Prep as confident, independent, and well-rounded individuals, fully prepared for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.