By the end of their time at Sherborne Prep Schools our pupils will have:

+ The knowledge and tools for independent learning developed through an enquiry-based approach to learning (i)

+ The ability to think critically and creatively and the skills to research, sort, record and evaluate information

+ A high standard of English based on sustained and extended reading, high level comprehension skills, the ability to write in different genre, an appreciation of grammar and a love of literature

+ An interest and appreciation of Mathematics and a high standard of mathematical operations based on acquired knowledge, an understanding of key concepts and skills and the ability to record, apply and communicate mathematical ideas and experiences to real-life problems

+ A strong scientific background based on the National Curriculum with an emphasis on practical work and investigations to encourage scientific enquiry and thinking

+ A sound chronological knowledge of British and world history allied with the analytical and critical tools / skills necessary for the study of history

+ A sound knowledge of geographical terms, concepts and processes allied with the analytical and critical tools / skills necessary for the study of geography

+ A knowledge of computer technology and the skills and ability to use technology in other areas of the curriculum

+ A knowledge of four languages and cultures other than English and proficiency in at least two of these foreign languages

+ A good general knowledge based on a comprehensive syllabus that includes a knowledge of great artists, musicians, writers, scientists, as well as knowledge of historical events, geography and current events

+ An IT drivers’ licence and a completed course in touch-typing

+ Training in Design and Technology combining practical and technological skills with creative thinking to design and make products and systems that attempt to meet the needs of a project brief. They will have learnt, further, to evaluate and test their products against a list of specifications and then suggest modifications. (ii)

+ A strong classical background through the teaching of Greek and Roman history, literature and mythology and the teaching of Latin

+ An ability to express themselves creatively and imaginatively in different media based on knowledge of the skills, materials and art techniques and an understanding of art history, design and art movements in different cultures

+ Experience and training in drama, both within lessons in the junior school and through participation in class assemblies, shows, workshops, clubs and major school productions (iii)

+ An appreciation of music from different genres and cultures, as well as a knowledge of musical notation, instruments and process of composition. (iv)

+ An awareness of international relations and an understanding of other peoples and cultures (v)

+ The development of a personal moral code to live by based on relationships, tolerance and understanding

+ A knowledge of the Bible and other faiths and their relevance to today’s world

+ An ability to speak confidently in public and to debate, having been taught the tools, vocabulary, methodology and techniques of debating and public speaking in timetabled classes in Years 7 & 8.

+ Assistance from qualified learning support teachers for children with educational needs so that they can better access the school curriculum and achieve their potential

+ Assistance from qualified English as a Second Language teacher for children with a limited facility in English

+ Training for and participation in English Speaking Board exams in Yrs 2, 4 and 6.

+ Good manners, citizenship, humility and a sense of purpose and direction

+ An awareness of the environment and environmental issues as part of our Green Flag accreditation process (the School currently enjoys Silver status)

(i) These first two points are, in part, driven by the belief that children learn how to think and learn independently, something that is encouraged by the Russell group of universities

(ii) Working in plastics, wood, metals and textiles

(iii) There are three major school productions each year – Years 3 &4, Years 5&6 and Years 7&8

(iv) Over 70% of pupils in the Prep School learn an instrument (2008 figure). The School has the normal array of choirs, orchestras, a concert band, jazz group, strings and brass groups etc

(v) As well as its diverse language programme, the school has forged links with many European countries. In recent years, pupils and staff have visited schools and stayed with families in Austria, Bavaria, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Holland, Hungry, Italy, Slovenia and Greece