Gemma Russell - Headteacher, Newcastle Preparatory School
What are the schools main priorities for this academic year?
At the start of a new year it is all about settling our pupils into their new classrooms and routines, developing that sense of belonging which is key to wellbeing.
Our specialist EYFS outdoor learning area has undergone an extensive transformation, including our beautiful new tree-shaped canopy which enables a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor learning. This has made a huge difference to the school.
We have also started a playgroup for 18 months to 3 year olds this term so we will be getting this up and running. It is proving to be very popular in our local community already.
How do you measure the year as you go along?
We have regular meetings about targets and work to our school development plan. However, it is always important to retain some flexibility. Our priorities can change as the year develops and we are keen to remain agile and responsive in a changing landscape.
Are there any significant changes to teaching or pastoral care?
One significant change this year is to our ‘Buddy’ system to include younger year groups. This scheme has been successfully embedded in NPS culture for years and is always one of the children’s highlights of their time here. Nursery and Reception are now included to have a bigger buddy who they can spend quality time with.
How do you support children struggling academically, socially or emotionally?
With small class sizes, every pupil receives individualised support in lessons. Our team has lots of specialist experience to deal with every situation and we have a range of additional programmes children can participate in to support specific difficulties.
How do you maintain high standards of behaviour, kindness and respect?
Consistency is key and our staff all adopt the same standards and approach. Staff also model the interactions we want to see from the children, praising the small things alongside the big things. Kindness is a nonnegotiable at NPS and children are rewarded for demonstrating our core values in their daily life.
How do you keep parents informed of their child’s progress and any other concerns?
We have two parents evenings a year and two written reports. Class teachers also give a weekly update to provide an insight into the children’s world at school. Each week there is a letter with information for parents and there are regular opportunities to come in to school, such as stay and plays, performances or showcase events.
What extra-curricular activities have you got scheduled?
Extra-curricular provision is a huge strength of NPS. Outside of the weekly schedule of clubs and activities, we also have many other events for children and their families.
Our little ones are already preparing their Christmas performance and we have a rugby and hockey sports tours to Edinburgh. There will be our traditional Christmas Carol Service at Jesmond Parish Church and many exciting themed days to be involved in.
Next year, we have a ceilidh and murder mystery event for families planned at the Biscuit Factory, a skiing trip to Norway and our choir will be performing at Wembley Arena in London.
It is fair to say that there is never a dull moment!
Come the end of the school year what do you hope to have improved and achieved?
I would very much like to retain the benchmark of excellence that we set. As a preparatory school, our key aim is that our pupils are ready for what comes next in their education, and that our eldest children are successful in gaining competitive places at the schools they will thrive in after leaving us.
www.newcastleprepschool.org.uk