The Benefits of an Independent Education in the Early Years

Many of us will be familiar with the concept of an independent or private primary school, often known as a ‘preparatory school’ or ‘prep school’, but how exactly do primary-aged children benefit from this kind of school?

What is a 'Prep School'?

Traditionally, prep schools are independent schools that educate children between the ages of 8 and 13 - before this age, children in the independent sector would traditionally attend a ‘pre-prep’, for pupils aged 4 to 7. 

The term ‘preparatory’ describes how the schools prepare children effectively for the next step of their education at a senior school, where they will usually complete GCSEs and A-Levels.

Horsham’s only co-educational independent all-through school, Farlington School caters for pupils from Reception all the way up to Sixth Form. We are a true through school, educating students from 4 to 18 years on the same site, and whilst we no longer use the term ‘prep school’, Farlington pupils proudly belong to one of our three school sections: the Lower School (Reception to Year 4); the Middle School (Year 5 to Year 8) or the Senior School (Year 9 to Year 13).

The Curriculum at Private Schools

Unlike mainstream schools, prep schools and other independent schools are not restricted to following the National Curriculum. This independence gives private schools the freedom and flexibility to deliver a curriculum that not only aligns with their vision and ethos, but can also be tailored to the needs of individual children. Thus, children at independent schools such as Farlington are not subjected to the ‘one size fits all’ approach. 

As a member of the Independent Schools Association or ISA, we are required to deliver a broad curriculum at Farlington, where children are taught using the framework of the National Curriculum, but teachers also include extra activities from outside the syllabus to further enrich teaching and learning. 

Farlington pupils experience a balanced and wide-ranging curriculum, with careful planning for continuity and progress that takes individual differences into account. The Farlington curriculum is designed to foster an interest beyond the curriculum and, particularly in the Lower School, to develop a love of learning from an early age.

Class Sizes

Prep schools and other independent schools tend to boast smaller class sizes compared to mainstream primary schools. Children at private schools therefore benefit from more individual time and attention from teachers, who can better assess a child's progress and tailor their learning accordingly. Teachers can also build an in-depth understanding of each child and know the strengths, weaknesses, and needs of each pupil. Smaller class sizes also enable children to build better relationships with their teachers and classmates, which encourages better class cohesion and less disruption.

Specialist Teachers

Rather than being taught all subjects by a single generalist teacher, primary-aged children attending a private school such as Farlington will enjoy some lessons led by subject specialist teachers. These teachers have substantial expertise and enthusiasm for their respective curriculum area, and can best support pupils of all abilities to reach their potential. Right from Reception, all pupils at Farlington School have subject specialists teaching music, modern languages and sport. Lower School students also enjoy weekly swimming lessons and weekly on-site Forest School sessions with our highly qualified Forest School Leader.

Extra-Curricular Opportunities

The educational experience at independent schools is enriched by the wide range of extra-curricular opportunities available to pupils from an early age. Farlington offers an extensive extra-curricular provision, incorporating sporting, creative and enrichment options. Our twice-daily activities programme allows every pupil to be involved in an enrichment activity - outdoors or indoors; practical, intellectual or unusual. We offer a range of extra-curricular art, music, dance and drama clubs, and provide a varied and inclusive extra-curricular sports programme. Clubs for the Lower School include Judo, Street Dance, Hockey, Training Orchestra, LEGO Club, Tennis, Arts & Crafts, Junior Choir, and Ballet.

A wide range of activities and initiatives is a key advantage because it provides children with a truly well-rounded education and a broadened perspective. Pupils are able to discover and nurture new skills and interests, whilst building confidence, responsibility and valuable soft skills. They also develop strong friendships, have fun and improve their wellbeing.

Discover the Lower School at Farlington

The best way to see how your child could benefit from a Farlington School education is to come and visit us and find out all about the Lower School at Farlington!

If your child is due to start his or her educational journey in the next few years, we would be delighted to welcome you to our Reception Open Morning on Wednesday, 24th April 2024. We will also be holding a Whole School Open Morning on Saturday, 11th May 2024. To reserve your place at either of these events, please click here.

Alternatively, we would be delighted to offer you a tour of the school and a meeting with our Headmaster, James Passam, on a date that is convenient for you. To book a tour, please contact our Admissions Team on 01403 282573 or by email: admissions@farlingtonschool.com.