Middle School

The Middle School

The Middle School is situated in the Stable Yard, an area dedicated to the children in Years 3 and 4 and is a nurturing and special environment where the children feel valued, happy and safe. It is an invaluable phase in the children’s OBH learning journey that takes them from the wonderful environment of the Pre-Prep through to the rigors of the Senior School, where the greater focus is on independent learning and preparation for Common Entrance.

The transition between Pre-Prep and Middle School is carefully managed so the children feel confident and excited about the move into the Stable Yard. During the Summer term, the Year 2 children spend time getting to know the Year 3 contemporaries and their teachers and carry out transition activities that are both fun and informative. The children write letters to one another and our Year 3 experts take great pride in sharing all they know about life in the Middle School.

In the Middle School, the children are taught in their own classrooms by a form teacher who oversees their academic and pastoral needs, whilst also being taught by subject specialists for French, Art, Drama, Music, ICT, DT, PE, Games and Old Buckenham Explorers (OBEs). The Middle school meets together for celebration assemblies where special achievements are shared. The children also have the opportunity of performing in musical concerts and stage productions. The paths of communication are open between teachers, pupils and their parents and there are many opportunities to meet both formally and informally to discuss academic progress and any matters of the moment. Your child’s form teacher should always be the first port of call while the Head of Middle School is always available as a senior point of contact for parents should they have any questions or concerns about their child’s progress through the Middle School.

There is a bespoke U9 activity program that is open to all children in Years 3 and 4. Children are also welcome to stay for Prep twice a week where key skills are practised and consolidated.

As the children near the end of Year 4, they are well prepared for the move into Year 5 and the increased responsibility that this entails. In Year 5, they will be taught primarily by specialist subject teachers and will be required to organise their equipment and move around the school independently.