Pre-Prep (2-7 yrs)
Our Pre-Prep nurtures curiosity, confidence and a love of learning through a rich, hands-on curriculum, where boys explore, discover and grow in a supportive and inspiring environment.
ART
Pre-Prep is a busy, fun place to be, full of colourful creations by the boys. Starting from Reception, everyone’s encouraged to look at the world around them and enjoy making any kind of art to express themselves.
Importantly, they learn to be positive critics of each other’s work and ideas.
DRAMA
Drama is part of our weekly routine, with imaginative play front and centre of activities, which help with the development of each boy’s sense of self and his understanding of others.
Roleplay is encouraged and we have a permanent role-play corner where boys can escape into a make-believe world of their own making. One minute it’s a space station, the next it’s a vets’ practice, a doctor’s surgery, a secret den, a post office, a corner shop, even a dinosaur’s lair.
A nativity play is performed by the Pre-Prep each Christmas. The costumes are lavish and the enthusiasm boundless!
MUSIC
A love of music – and opportunities to play are encouraged from day one. Music in Pre-Prep is taught by Russell or Elizabeth, our Director and Assistant Director of Music, with lessons three times a week (four in Year Two), and there’s always extra help at hand if needed. Singing is central to the curriculum, with songs chosen to suit young voices or specially adapted by Russell. The younger boys are always inspired seeing the older boys perform. The choir Commoner (after-school club) is led by Russell and is very popular - every boy in Year 2 asks to join!
Notation is blended into every part of school life so it comes naturally. Classroom xylophones are always on hand, reinforcing the boys’ awareness of the diatonic scale and intervals, and provide an enjoyably kinaesthetic outlet for their developing sense of rhythm.
“Musical foundations are best laid early, and, like all good foundations, we believe that these are best laid deep. Pre-Prep boys are encouraged to establish a broad, secure base before embarking on formal individual instrumental tuition. More than 90% of the boys will go on to take up an instrument by the end of Year 3”. Russell De Plessis, Director of Music
School Life
Boys thrive on being busy. They like structure and they like routine. We make sure your Pilgrim makes the most of his school day, whether in Pre-Prep or Prep, day boy or boarder, Chorister or Quirister.
Our Location
Set in the heart of Winchester’s Cathedral Close, the school enjoys a unique and peaceful setting between Winchester Cathedral and Winchester College, with the city on its doorstep and the South Downs countryside just beyond.