As your child approaches the significant milestone of starting their formal education, we at Park School in Bournemouth understand the importance of choosing the right environment to support their growth and development.
Read on for more information about the enriching and wonderful experience that awaits your child in our Reception Year…
More than a school, Park is a community
At Park School, we pride ourselves on providing a nurturing and supportive environment where each child is valued as an individual and becomes an integral part of our close-knit school community. From the moment you step through our doors, you will be greeted by friendly faces and a welcoming atmosphere. We believe that a strong partnership between home and school is paramount, and we actively encourage families to participate in the many events and activities that take place throughout the school year, offering a true sense of belonging for both children and their parents.
Small class sizes
A cornerstone of our successful Reception Year is our commitment to smaller class sizes and a high teacher-to-child ratio. This ensures that each child receives the individual attention and guidance they need to flourish academically, socially, and emotionally. Our dedicated and experienced Early Years practitioners are passionate about creating a stimulating and engaging learning environment tailored to the unique needs of young learners. We are always immensely proud of the achievements of our Reception cohort, and in the last academic year 2023 to 2024, every single child successfully met their early learning goals, a testament to the quality of teaching and the individual support provided.
Bringing learning to life
We believe that learning should be an exciting adventure, and our immersive learning approach in Reception reflects this philosophy. Take, for instance, our phonics lessons. To bring the world of letters and sounds to life, our staff employ imaginative techniques such as dressing up in character and utilising a variety of engaging props. This hands-on, multi-sensory approach captivates the children’s interest and makes learning both enjoyable and effective. A highlight of the year is often our Letterland party, where the children themselves dress up as their favourite letters, further embedding their understanding in a fun and memorable way.
Specialist teaching
Recognising the importance of a well-rounded education, Park School offers specialist lessons in both Physical Education (PE) and Music from qualified teachers in purpose-built surroundings. Park’s dedicated teaching staff bring their expertise and passion to these subjects, providing children with a strong foundation in physical literacy and musical appreciation from the very start of their school journey. Through engaging activities and tailored instruction, children develop essential motor skills, teamwork abilities, and an appreciation for rhythm, melody, and musical expression.
A family feel
To further cultivate a sense of community and provide additional support, each child in Reception is thoughtfully paired with a Year 6 buddy. This special relationship helps to develop a ‘family culture’ within the school. The older buddies take on a supportive role, reading with their younger partners, spending allocated time together during breaks, and even participating in heartwarming traditions such as exchanging gifts during the Christmas season. This buddy system not only provides the younger children with a friendly face and a mentor but also helps the Year 6 pupils to develop responsibility and empathy.
Outdoor learning
Understanding the immense value of outdoor learning, Park School is delighted to offer dedicated Beach and Forest School sessions each term, led by our qualified Beach and Forest School teachers. These enriching experiences provide children with opportunities to explore the natural world, develop their curiosity, build confidence, and learn practical skills in unique and stimulating environments. Whether investigating the wonders of the seashore at Hengistbury Head or discovering the secrets of the woodlands opposite the school gates, these hands-on lessons provide an appreciation for nature and extend children’s learning far beyond the classroom walls.
Leadership expertise
We are also delighted to introduce our new Head, Mrs. Ward, who joined Park School in January. Mrs. Ward brings a wealth of experience from London Prep schools and a clear vision for the continued success and growth of our school. Her warm and approachable manner has already made a positive impact on our school community, and she is deeply committed to upholding Park School’s nurturing ethos and strong partnerships with families.
Next steps
Choosing the right school for your child is a significant decision, and we invite you to visit Park School to experience first-hand the warm and vibrant atmosphere that makes our Reception year so special. We are confident that you will find Park School to be a place where your child will not only thrive academically but will also develop into a confident, happy, and well-rounded individual, ready for the exciting learning journey ahead. Families are invited to contact our Admissions team to arrange a tour, explore our Reception learning spaces and meet our experienced team.
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