Our Pre-Prep
The Pre-Prep department sits within the Prep School, with its own dedicated corridor and outdoor area for learning and play. We welcome children aged 3 to 7 years. Our small class sizes with a high ratio of teachers to pupils is something of great value. This enabling environment provides the best learning experience for our children, promoting curiosity, creativity and a caring approach in all we do.
A distinctive quality of our Pre-prep is that while they have their own dedicated area, they also have full access to the rest of the school. For instance, from Year 1 the children visit the Art block, enabling a far greater range of experience. Whilst the form tutor remains the primary teacher, specialists are used for Forest School, Music, Games, French and ICT.
A range of school trips are enjoyed which complement the school curriculum with a generous helping of fun. These can be local trips, to the cathedral for example, or further afield on the school minibuses to Brownsea island. Every experience is designed to stimulate a love of learning and the school’s core values of Belonging, Courage, Curiosity and Kindness.
Prep School
At Chafyn Godolphin Prep School, children are encouraged to be curious, embrace new experiences and grow into confident, happy learners who are excited about the world around them.
Through inspiring teaching, enjoyable challenge, outstanding pastoral care and a wide range of opportunities both inside and outside the classroom, every child is supported to discover their strengths, develop their talents and build self-confidence. We nurture a love of learning, independence and resilience, helping children to flourish academically, socially and emotionally.
As they progress through the Prep School, children are challenged and supported in equal measure, developing the skills, character and confidence needed for a successful transition to senior school and beyond.
FAQs
DO I HAVE TO WAIT FOR AN OPEN DAY TO VISIT THE SCHOOL?
No, every day is an ‘Open Day.’ Whilst we operate specific open days each term, we recommend that a visit on any other day probably offers even better insights.
WHAT IF I CAN’T TAKE MY CHILD TO SCHOOL? DO YOU HAVE BUSES?
Yes – details available from the school office and here
CAN MY CHILD COME EARLY OR LEAVE LATE FROM SCHOOL?
Our basic wraparound care runs from 8am till 6pm; it is possible to extend this range as needed (without having to become a boarder)
DO YOU HAVE ENTRY TESTS INTO THE SCHOOL?
No. A discussion with the admissions team before joining helps us ensure that all your child’s needs can be fully met from day one.
DO I HAVE TO WAIT UNTIL SEPTEMBER FOR MY CHILD TO START AT CHAFYN GODOLPHIN?
Not at all. Such a decision is always determined by what is best for the child – we prefer children to start with us as soon as possible.
WHAT WILL HAPPEN ON MY CHILD’S FIRST DAY AT SCHOOL?
A peer buddy helps them navigate; you will have been talked through the process well in advance.
IS THERE A PARENTAL NETWORK?
There is a formal system of year group representatives, as well as a series of informal ones too.
WHAT LANGUAGES DO YOU TEACH?
French, Spanish and Latin. others (eg. Russian or Ancient Greek) regularly appear as clubs for different parts of the year.
WHAT ARE THE TERM DATES?
Click HERE to view the term dates.
