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PRIMARY SCHOOL MAKES USE OF THE GREAT OUTDOORS
Outdoor learning is one of the ways Claygate Primary School seeks to inspire its children – an approach that helps keep it high up on the list of England’s primaries for academic success.
Its most recent Ofsted inspection graded the school as Outstanding for Personal Development, and Claygate Primary believes children learn best when they are fulfilled, engaged, and excited about the world around them. This philosophy is woven into all aspects of school life, from the academic curriculum to its diverse enrichment opportunities.
One example is its exciting “Mini-Woodies” programme, designed for the youngest learners in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). It introduces them to the wonders of outdoor learning through carefully crafted activities that inspire curiosity, encourage safe exploration, build confidence, foster creativity, and support risk-taking in a nurturing environment.
As children progress through the school, they transition into the “Woodland Learning” programme, which promotes teamwork, resilience, and problem-solving while connecting children with the natural world. Through activities such as den-building, exploring ecosystems, and hands-on challenges, children develop essential life skills that complement their academic learning.
Alongside these outdoor activities, Claygate Primary offers a range of enrichment blocks, including Art and Design, Sport, Music and Drama, Design and Technology, M-Fit (mental health and wellbeing), and Computing. These blocks are designed to engage every child’s interests and talents, ensuring a broad, balanced education. The school also runs clubs, trips, and extracurricular activities that broaden horizons and inspire a love of learning.
In addition, Claygate Primary runs clubs, trips, and extracurricular acvies that provide new experiences and inspire a lifelong love of learning.
Educational visits to museums, theatres, historical sites, and nature reserves give real-world context to classroom learning, while guest speakers and specialist visitors – including authors, scientists, musicians, and local professionals – bring unique insights and inspiration to the children’s education. These experiences help to expand their perspectives, spark curiosity, and make learning even more exciting and memorable.
A standout feature of the school’s commitment to physical education is its on-site swimming pool, which allows all children from EYFS to Year 6 to develop essential water safety skills and build confidence in swimming as part of the curriculum. Regular lessons ensure that every child has the opportunity to progress at their own pace, fostering both fitness and a lifelong appreciation for the importance of swimming.
THE POWER OF ORACY
Claygate Primary has also embedded oracy into its curriculum, teaching practices, and school culture. Oracy – the ability to articulate ideas, develop understanding, and engage with others through spoken language and active listening – is seen as a gateway to success. The school believes that strong oracy skills help children excel academically, build healthy relationships, and navigate the world with confidence.
To promote speaking and listening, the school runs a “Smart School Council”, a platform that ensures every child’s voice is heard. Each week, a thought-provoking question is put to the entire school, and children participate in short, structured class meetings to debate the question, vote on their opinions, and share the results. This initiative fosters meaningful dialogue and makes every child an active participant in shaping school life.
Oracy even extends beyond the classroom—children use these skills in the playground to resolve conflicts and enhance their play!
We’re delighted to welcome new students and still have a few places available in both our nursery and school for families looking to join our community.
For more information about Acorns Nursery or Claygate Primary School, please visit https://www.claygate.surrey.sch.uk/ or contact the school office@claygate.surrey.sch.uk Tel: 01372 465348 to organise a visit.
