A Journey Of Discovery
If first impressions are the most lasting, then time spent at Westholme School is memorable from entrance to exit, writes Danusia Osiowy, who speaks to Deputy Head and Early Years Lead, Judith Dixon
From the statement entrance through to their state-of-the-art facilities and access to innovative learning resources, Westholme School is home to both Senior and Prep pupils.
Whilst both have their own unique building, the overarching message is one of unity – Westholme has a strong family ethos where relationships are built on every level. The school prides itself on offering a stable nurturing and holistic environment to enable its children to thrive.
Prep children have the benefit of a blended learning approach. Younger children have access to innovative facilities throughout the whole school including the swimming pool, the Astroturf, the professional Croston Theatre, recording studio and the science, design, food and technology rooms. Early Years Lead, Judith Dixon speaks enthusiastically about how the INSPIRED Sixth Form students work with younger children as part of special projects, such as Playground Ambassadors and Enterprise and wider school initiatives to further enrich their experience.
PREP SCHOOL
The Prep School reception, punctuated with its signature purple colour, is adorned with pictures of children smiling, learning and achieving – a philosophy that is echoed and advocated by Deputy Head and Early Years Lead, Judith Dixon: “Staff ensure every day is an opportunity for new discovery and our children are happy, we know happy children flourish.
“The children are taught by specialist teachers who are passionate about teaching creatively across the curriculum, providing an inspiring learning environment where individual talents are recognised and nurtured and children have the opportunity to reach their full potential.”
At Westholme Prep the creative comes in many guises – from weekly outdoor learning sessions in the bespoke William’s Wood, learning how to compose music, designing and building a bug house or creating 3D bubble wands – the list is exciting and novel. School trips are plentiful and planned to align with aspirations such as the recent visit to Manchester Airport for Reception class children, where they delved into the world of aviation and potential career opportunities.
“We pride ourselves on enriching the curriculum by organising activities on and off the site,” explains Judith.
The 21st century wheel of essential skills, on display for all to see, is woven into everything the school undertakes with a focus on equipping each child with tools to succeed in life, developing character, leadership, thinking and collaboration.
“Our curriculum ensures equal importance is placed on knowledge and skills that will equip our children for their future. We prepare our children to be successful and teach them to be able to adapt, be independent and have empathy.”
WELL-BEING
Nutrition and well-being are also intrinsic and the children are taught accordingly so they go on to make well-informed choices to aid a healthy body and mind, making tangible the school motto, Mens Sana in Corpore Sano.
Lunch is a special time where staff and children from across the school eat together in the main dining room. There is an extensive choice of home-cooked dishes, with a wide variety of dietary requirements catered for.
Prep School children learn table etiquette, are encouraged to try new foods in a kind and caring atmosphere and are supported to develop independence.
There are opportunities for children to work with key stakeholders such as the catering company, Thomas Franks, which recently showed them how to make a healthy smoothie. The on-site school nurse works with the youngest children and recently taught them how to place somebody in the recovery position and how to dial 999.
Other special activities include a Reception class weekly yoga session, used as a time to reflect over the past week and look forward to the week to come.
“It’s a favourable time for our youngest children, improving emotional regulation, concentration and a time in which they become aware of their own feelings. It is a calm and quiet session where they listen to their bodies and take time out from their busy week.”
FAMILY
Equally important are the families behind the children. Dedicated time is also spent developing positive relationships with parents.
Discovery Days were introduced 18 months ago as a way of establishing the beginning of a positive relationship with parents, who are keen to learn first-hand about the school. The morning begins with an activity for pre-school children and their parents and wraps up with lunch in the school dining room.
The partnership is further nurtured through hosting regular parent events throughout the whole of Prep.
“We have a strong open-door policy for our parents, who want to come and support their children’s learning. They trust us and we trust them.”
As testament to the school, Judith has been with Westholme for more than 20 years and remains even more confident of its role going forwards.
“Parent relationships are important to us, and communication is encouraged. I look forward to receiving emails from parents sharing what their children have enjoyed doing at the weekend. I am proud to say we are one big family where everyone belongs.
“The curriculum provides wonderful opportunities for every girl and boy. Children become well-rounded independent and confident individuals who see themselves as an important part of the Westholme family.”
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
Discover Westholme for yourself
OPEN EVENING: Thursday 3rd October, 6pm – 9pm
Looking for Reception 2025 places?
PREP R DISCOVERY DAY: Friday 11th October, 11am – 12.30pm
Westholme School
Wilmar Lodge, Meins Road, Pleasington BB2 6QU
01254 506070
prep@westholmeschool.com
westholmeschool.com
