Year 1
An exciting step forward, as children become increasingly independent in their learning while still benefitting from the nurturing environment of Pre-Prep.
As a leading Pre-Prep school near Newbury, we give children the confidence and support they need to move smoothly from Reception into a more structured learning.
High-quality Key Stage 1 schooling is about much more than academic progress. It is about helping children develop confidence, resilience, independence and a genuine enthusiasm for learning, in a supportive environment where every child is known as an individual.
What Year 1 Looks Like
Structured learning, specialist teaching and plenty of exploration
Core Subjects
English, Phonics, Maths, Science and the Humanities form the heart of the Year 1 curriculum, helping children make a smooth transition from Reception into more structured learning.
Swimming & Muddy Mondays
Children enjoy weekly swimming lessons and our much-loved Muddy Monday activities, which encourage exploration, curiosity and learning beyond the classroom.
Specialist Teaching
Alongside core subjects, children are taught Music, PE and Swimming by experienced teachers from the Prep School.
Regular Assessment
Regular assessments tracks understanding of key concepts, ensuring pupils are appropriately challenged and supported throughout the year.
Our goal at the end of Year 1 is happy, confident and independent children who are achieving their best.
Life Beyond the Classroom
Optional activities taught by experienced specialists, so children can discover new interests, build confidence and make friends.
Sport & Movement
Judo, Ballet, Tennis, Yoga, Extra Sport, Gymnastics all taught by specialist instructors.
Music & Performance
Drama, Chess plus Recorder Groups as an enjoyable introduction before committing to individual tuition.
Outstanding Facilities
Broad use is made of the school's facilities, allowing children to explore a wide range of interests and talents.
After-school club
Flexibility for Your Family
A thriving after-school club lets children stay until 5.50 p.m., giving families valuable flexibility while children continue to enjoy a stimulating and supportive environment beyond the school day. Supper can also be provided in this time.
See how the whole school day fits together on our Flexible Day page.
Why Families Choose Our Pre-Prep
Strong academic foundations alongside a happy and engaging childhood. Families seeking an Independent Pre-Prep School in Berkshire value our balance of academic rigour, pastoral care and outstanding opportunities beyond the classroom.
Individual Attention
Parents often tell us they value the individual attention their children recieve.
Breadth of Opportunity
A broad and balanced school experience, from specialist teaching to optional clubs and activities.
A Smooth Transition
A seamless path from Reception through Pre-Prep and on into Prep.
Located in Hermitage near Newbury, Brockhurst & Marlston House welcomes families from Bucklebury, Chieveley, Cold Ash and across Berkshire.
Year 1 Questions
Which subjects do Year 1 children study?
Alongside our termly topics the Year 1's study English, Phonics, Maths, Science with the introduction of Geography, History & RS. Specialist subjects including Music, PE, Swimming are also part of their timetable.
Who teaches the specialist subjects?
Music, PE and Swimming are delivered by experienced teachers from the prep school.
Do Year 1 children swim?
Yes, children have weekly swimming lessons.
What is Muddy Monday?
One of our much-loved Year 1 activities, encouring exploration, curiosty and learning beyond the classroom. Taking adavantage of our 500 acres.
How is progress monitored?
Regular assessments track understanding of key concepts, so children are appropriately challenged and supported.
Which optional activities are available?
Drama, Judo, Ballet, Gymnastics, Street Dance, Extra Sport, Chess, Tennis and Yoga all taught by specialists, plus recorder groups.
Can my child stay after school?
Yes, our after-school club lets children stay until 5.50 p.m.
Come & See Year 1
Visit our Pre-Prep, meet the team and see Year 1 in action.
