"Teaching them to be independent has been really noticeable and think this sets them apart from other similar educational settings in the area." - Parent
“Play is our brain's favourite way of learning.” – Winnie the Pooh
At Greenbank, we believe that early childhood is a time for nurturing care and exciting learning opportunities. Our Preschool, which caters to children from the September after they turn three, provides a supportive, stimulating, and fun environment where each child’s development is celebrated.
Children join Preschool in the September following their 3rd birthday, marking the beginning of their exciting educational journey. Together with our Reception class, the Preschool forms the Foundation Stage, ensuring a smooth and supportive transition to formal schooling.
We offer flexible session options, including morning, afternoon, and full-day sessions, to suit parents' needs. For children transitioning from Greenbank Day Nursery, we work closely with the Nursery staff to make the change as seamless as possible.
The learning experience in Preschool is built around carefully planned activities that reflect both the children's interests and developmental stages. By combining play-based learning with intentional teaching, we support each child's growth in all key areas, including:
This approach helps children develop confidence, make friends, and build skills that form the foundation for future learning. We also encourage hands-on learning through exploration and real-life experiences.
At Preschool, we believe in learning through exploration. Our outdoor areas are integral to our curriculum, allowing children to experience and learn from the natural world. We have access to the multi-sensory garden, a wildlife area, and two large wooden play areas, which provide children with the space to develop their gross motor skills and engage in imaginative play.
No matter the weather, we ensure that children can explore, play, and learn outside. We value the benefits of fresh air and physical activity as part of a healthy, well-rounded education.
In Preschool, we focus on developing key characteristics in each child, ensuring they leave us with the skills, attitudes, and confidence they need to succeed in the next stage of their education:
Independence – Encouraging self-sufficiency and decision-making.
Confidence – Helping children feel secure in themselves and their abilities.
Resilience – Building the capacity to overcome challenges and persist.
Children in our care develop the essential social, emotional, and academic skills that will support their success in Reception and beyond, ensuring they are well-prepared to transition to primary school.
Our curriculum combines play-based learning with intentional teaching. It includes a wide range of activities, such as music, art, Forest School, mathematics, and literacy. Through these experiences, children are not only prepared for the next stage of their education but also engage in cultural, social, and creative activities.
Throughout the year, children participate in special events such as pantomime visits and end-of-year trips, which inspire creativity and social interaction.
As an integral part of the Greenbank Preparatory School community, Preschool children are involved in school-wide events, including:
Our children also benefit from specialist teaching in Spanish with Kidslingo, music, dance, and PE, helping them develop new skills and encouraging teamwork and self-confidence.
We recognise the importance of collaboration with families. To strengthen the connection between home and school, we offer:
Felicity Keane, our dedicated Preschool Teacher, brings years of experience to the classroom. She works closely with children and parents to ensure each child has a nurturing and smooth start to their educational journey.
At Greenbank, we strive to make every child’s time in Preschool a happy, fulfilling, and memorable experience that sets the foundation for lifelong learning. Our approach helps children develop independence, confidence, and resilience, ensuring they are well-prepared for the transition to Reception and beyond.
Banks Bee is a whole-school reward initiative encouraging children to: Bee Committed; Bee Involved; Bee Loyal; Bee Bold and BE THE BEST THEY CAN BEE!
We are proud to be a school which values community and involvement. Banks Bee is here to keep the Greenbank Family together!
As our children progress through the school, they will be rewarded for their participation and endeavour through Banks Bee’s reward scheme – comprising of bronze, silver, gold and even platinum awards.
