As soon as our doors open at 8.00am, the children burst in, lugging their kit bags and school bookbag, all prepared for an action-packed day full of various activities. Some children are wielding tennis rackets, others swimming bags, climbing kit or Taekwondo outfits – a typical day in the pre-prep at Copthorne Prep.
The first lesson on most days is English and we start with reading from our class reading book. Following our reading is a short and focused phonics session. Just before playtime, we have our school assembly which includes singing, a moral or spiritual focus and plenty of celebrating.
Once the clock strikes 10.00am, we are eager for playtime with our friends – a precious half an hour working on building friendships, learning to play together and possibly a moment to relax. Having returned to the classroom, we enjoy a piece of fruit and either water or milk. Having replenished our energy for another busy session of learning, we start with a hands on and active maths lesson. Once we get those first hunger warnings, we know it is time for our motor mover activities where we are able to calm our minds, listen to music and practise movements to improve our motor skills.
Lunch is always a treat! The dining hall is buzzing with chatter and the sound of knives and forks scraping up delicious, homemade meals prepared by Karen and her team.
Our afternoons include energetic and creative activities including those with a science and humanities focus, arts, music, PE, swimming and French. Once story time arrives, we are certainly only ready to relax and have some quiet time. As you can imagine, by the end of the day, having participated in after school clubs, we are ready to go home – tired but fulfilled!