Geraldine Mooney, Director of Lower School (Reception to Year 6) at Alton School gives us her Top 5 reasons.

Small Class Sizes 

Educational studies show that the smaller the class size, the higher the average grade a pupil achieves. This is helped by the favourable teacher-pupil ratio, but in truth it comes down to a teacher’s understanding of each child’s innate needs, not just their academic needs but investing time in really getting to know them, their likes, dislikes, favourite school lunch, hobbies they excel in.

Like most independent schools our average class size of 12-15 with one teacher and often a TA, means we really know our children and are in the best position to support them both academically and emotionally, ensuring they become the best version of themselves.

Teachers 

There are many restrictions placed on teachers within the state sector while in the independent sector we have the unique opportunities to go ‘off-piste’ – not restricted by the boundaries of the national curriculum. This freedom allows our team of highly qualified individuals to enthuse our pupils and explore their interests further.

Nurture 

Pastoral provision which is proactive, not reactive is absolutely key to a happy school environment. Pupils need to know they have been heard and that their opinions are valued and appreciated. This includes celebrating individual skills, and qualities, building pupil confidence and allowing them to be proud of their achievements.

School Community 

The bond with home is vital – parents and teachers working together make for a happier child and an enjoyable experience for everyone.

A good school is by its very essence a community with close connections between staff, pupils, parents, governors and the local community. We find that our parents really enjoy being part of our Community and share with us the importance of looking outwards, whether that be singing at the local care homes, hosting community woodland walks, fundraising for local charities, or welcoming local schools to share our facilities.

Longer school days and breadth of opportunity 

As a parent of 3 myself I know how busy the family schedule gets. The advantage of the independent sector is that we can supply a one stop shop and minimise the shuttling around for parents. A holistic school day ensures that the broader extra-curricular opportunities are as important as the excellent academic provision and are embedded within school hours.

I’m constantly amazed at the amazing array of extra-curricular activities on offer here, ranging from cricket nets, drama club, buggy-making, debating and a whole host of different sports. During the school day the children swim, cook, learn outdoors, explore – all the time developing the important soft skills of the future- teamwork, conversation, compassion, enquiry, research, bravery and resilience.

Alton School and Nursery welcomes children from 6 months through to Sixth Form. All pupils from Reception onwards benefit from specialist teaching in Art, Music, Drama, Computer Science, PE and Spanish. Year 6 pupils are taught by Senior School staff for all subjects.