Learning | Pre-Prep and Junior School | King Edward's School, Bath

IRRESISTIBLE LEARNING

At King Edward’s, our pupils’ learning journey from ages 3 to 11 is shaped by curiosity, joy and a sense of adventure. From their earliest experiences in Nursery to the increasing independence of older years, every stage is designed to inspire children to explore, question and grow. 

As pupils progress, learning becomes ever more exciting, challenging and fun, enriched by a wealth of trips and visits that bring topics vividly to life. 

By the time children reach Key Stage 2, they are ready to embrace new challenges with growing confidence and independence. Subject specialist teaching and facilities, including our Science Lab, ICT suite and Design Technology workshop, encourage pupils to think critically, solve problems creatively and approach unfamiliar concepts with assurance. 

Throughout all years, our aim is simple: that children feel happy, inspired and excited to learn each day. When they feel secure and motivated, they flourish academically, socially and emotionally. It is a privilege to guide them through these remarkable years and watch them grow into confident, compassionate and inquisitive learners, ready for the next steps ahead.

KES states that it’s a school for ‘adventurous minds’ and we agree. The engaging curriculum, wide creative arts offering and host of clubs, trips and academic competitions, should kindle curiosity and a love of learning in all pupils.” - GOOD SCHOOLS GUIDE

EARLY YEARS FOUNDATION STAGE (NURSERY & RECEPTION)

In the Early Years, children begin their KES journey in a vibrant, inspiring and joy‑filled environment, where everyday sparks new wonder. Our excellent adult‑to‑pupil ratios mean learning feels personal and special, allowing each child to feel secure, confident and ready to leap into discovery. These precious early experiences shape a child’s future, and our dedicated Early Years team ensures every moment counts through a rich blend of playful exploration, guided learning and purposeful group activities.

Curiosity is at the heart of everything we do. Children ask big questions, investigate ideas and delight in hands‑on activities both indoors and out. From imaginative outdoor adventures to creative classroom challenges, every experience encourages children to think boldly, try new things and discover the joy of learning. Exciting trips and visiting experts add even more magic, broadening horizons and inspiring children to become enthusiastic, inquisitive learners who can’t wait for what comes next.
 

Leaders in the early years creatE a dynamic and responsive learning environment.  Highly trained attentive staff support children to participate actively in their learning, achieve well, and form secure relationships.”  ISI REPORT 2026 THE TEACHERS MAKE THE LEARNING THE BEST IT CAN POSSIBLY BE." CURRENT PUPIL

YEARS 1–2 (PRE-PREP AGED PUPILS)

Across Years 1 and 2, learning builds on the strong foundations established in the Early Years, while ensuring that children continue to experience the challenge and excitement that are hallmarks of the 3–11 journey. Teaching is tailored and responsive, allowing staff to stretch and support each child as they grow in confidence, independence and curiosity. 

Lessons blend whole class teaching, group work and individual activities, all designed to keep pupils engaged and motivated. Children continue to explore the world around them through hands on learning, creative tasks and trips that bring topics to life. They are encouraged to ask questions, to think deeply and to take pride in their progress, developing the early habits of reflective and independent learners. 
 

The teachers have an amazing way of teaching – they change to suit your style." CURRENT PUPIL

YEARS 3–6 (junior aged pupils)

In Years 3 to 6, pupils embrace a vibrant and increasingly challenging curriculum that encourages them to push boundaries, think critically and take intellectual risks. Learning is exciting, fast paced and varied, with each day bringing opportunities for exploration and discovery across an ever broadening range of subjects. 
 

Specialist Teaching

Specialist teaching, supported by bespoke learning environments in subjects such as Science, Art, Music, Computing and Design Technology, as well as Modern Foreign Languages, ignites pupils’ curiosity and passion for learning. Through hands on exploration and purposeful enquiry, pupils gain insight into how subjects connect to the wider world of work, while building confidence, resilience and independence as they prepare for their Senior School journey and develop a lifelong love of learning.

Pupils are encouraged to challenge their thinking, apply higher order skills and evaluate their ideas, developing the resourcefulness and self-awareness needed for an ever changing future.
 

Enrichment Programme

Our enrichment programme is a real strength of the School. The staff are committed to ensuring that each child is given the opportunity to experience a range of activities, and in doing so, develop their interests, abilities, and confidence. These enrichment opportunities are provided in a variety of ways, including clubs and activities, trips and a specific enrichment lesson in each child’s weekly timetable.

Learning Support at the PRE-PREP AND Junior School

At King Edward’s, we recognise that every child is unique, with their own strengths, interests and ways of learning. We know that many children will need some form of additional support at different points in their learning journey, whether educational, social or emotional, and early identification is key to helping them flourish.

Our Learning Support provision offers a clear and accessible pathway of tailored support from the very start of a child’s schooling. Through careful observation and assessment, we work closely with children and their families to understand individual needs, celebrate strengths and ensure that each child feels safe, understood and supported. We believe strongly in the value of the child’s voice, and we place their wellbeing at the centre of all decisions.

Our teachers use a range of strategies within the classroom to meet both individual and broader learning needs. When additional help is required, experienced staff provide targeted support through small group sessions or one to one work, delivered in and beyond the classroom under the guidance of our Learning Support team and specialist SENCos.

Effective communication between staff ensures that the right strategies are in place for every child who may benefit from extra support. When further insight is needed, we collaborate with external specialists, such as Educational Psychologists, Speech and Language Therapists and Occupational Therapists, to ensure that appropriate pathways and interventions are available.

Our aim is simple: that every child heads to Senior School with strong foundations, well established learning strategies and the confidence to embrace future challenges. By nurturing each child as an individual and providing responsive, thoughtful support, we enable all pupils to thrive both academically and personally as they move on to Year 7 and beyond.