School LifeSpecialist Subjects

At Oakhyrst Grange, art is a vibrant and valued part of school life. We believe that creativity is an essential skill that enables children to express themselves, develop confidence and view the world with curiosity and imagination.

Our art curriculum encourages pupils to experiment, explore and take creative risks in a supportive environment. Through drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, textiles and mixed media, children develop both technical skills and artistic confidence while learning to communicate ideas visually.

Pupils are introduced to a wide range of artists, styles and cultures, inspiring them to broaden their understanding of art and discover their own creative voice. They are encouraged to observe closely, think critically and reflect on their work, developing resilience and pride in the creative process.

Art lessons provide opportunities for children to explore their imagination, celebrate individuality and develop problem-solving skills. Whether working independently or collaboratively, pupils learn that creativity can take many forms and that every contribution is valued.

Artwork is proudly displayed throughout the school, creating a stimulating environment that celebrates achievement and showcases the talents of our pupils. Children also have opportunities to contribute to exhibitions, special projects and whole-school events, sharing their creativity with the wider community.

At Oakhyrst Grange, we nurture young artists by fostering a love of creativity, encouraging self-expression and helping every child develop the confidence to explore, create and inspire.

Forest School at Oakhyrst Grange provides children with the opportunity to explore, discover, and learn through hands-on experiences in our beautiful on-site woodlands.

From Pre-Reception onwards, pupils enjoy weekly Forest School sessions led by a specialist Forest School teacher, encouraging curiosity, confidence, creativity, and a lifelong connection with the natural world.

Our woodlands provide a unique outdoor classroom where children can investigate nature, develop practical skills, and learn through meaningful experiences. From observing wildlife and exploring seasonal changes to building dens, creating woodland crafts, and discovering the environment around them, pupils are encouraged to ask questions, solve problems, and develop independence.

Forest School helps children grow in confidence and resilience as they learn to take considered risks, work together, and overcome challenges. Practical activities such as den building, nature exploration, campfires, and roasting marshmallows create memorable experiences while developing teamwork, communication skills, and a sense of achievement.

Time spent outdoors complements classroom learning, allowing children to develop creativity, imagination, and a deeper understanding of the world around them. The freedom to explore and learn in our own woodlands nurtures curiosity and encourages pupils to become confident, capable, and resourceful learners.

At Oakhyrst Grange, we believe that outdoor learning is a vital part of a child’s education. Our Forest School experience inspires adventure, builds resilience, and creates lasting memories, helping children develop a genuine appreciation for nature and the confidence to embrace new challenges.

French is an important part of life at Oakhyrst Grange, giving pupils the opportunity to develop language skills, cultural awareness, and confidence in communication from an early age.

From Reception onwards, children enjoy weekly French lessons with a specialist French teacher. Through engaging, interactive sessions, pupils are introduced to the sounds, vocabulary, and structures of the French language in a fun and supportive environment.

Our approach encourages children to develop confidence in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in French. Through songs, games, stories, conversations, and practical activities, pupils build their vocabulary and develop an enjoyment of learning another language while gaining an appreciation of French culture and traditions.

Learning a language from an early age supports children’s communication skills, curiosity, and understanding of the wider world. Pupils are encouraged to take risks, experiment with new vocabulary, and express themselves with increasing confidence.

As children progress through the school, they continue to develop their French skills, building a strong foundation for future language learning and preparing them for the opportunities and challenges of senior school.

At Oakhyrst Grange, we believe that learning a language opens doors to new experiences and perspectives. French helps our pupils become confident, curious global citizens with a genuine enthusiasm for exploring the world beyond their own community.

Music is an integral part of life at Oakhyrst Grange, providing children with opportunities to express themselves creatively, build confidence, and develop a lifelong appreciation of the performing arts.

From the earliest years, pupils are encouraged to explore and enjoy music through singing, listening, performing, and composing. Our music curriculum develops musical understanding and technical skills while fostering creativity, collaboration, and self-expression. Through engaging lessons, children learn about rhythm, melody, harmony, notation, and a wide variety of musical styles and traditions.

We believe that musical literacy is an essential part of every child’s education. Through weekly curriculum lessons, all pupils are taught to read music confidently, developing the knowledge and skills to understand musical notation and apply it in their own performances and compositions. By the time they leave Oakhyrst Grange, children have a strong foundation in music theory and the confidence to continue their musical journey beyond school.

Singing is at the heart of our musical community. Pupils regularly take part in choir rehearsals, assemblies, concerts, productions, and special events throughout the year. These opportunities help children develop confidence, teamwork, stage presence, and a sense of achievement, while sharing their talents with family, friends, and the wider school community.

Many pupils choose to extend their musical experience through individual instrumental and vocal lessons with specialist teachers. Children can learn a wide range of instruments, including piano, violin, cello, guitar, drums, flute, clarinet, trumpet, and singing, allowing them to discover an instrument that inspires and challenges them. Whether learning for enjoyment, preparing for examinations, or developing performance skills, pupils are encouraged to pursue their musical interests and achieve their personal best.

Music at Oakhyrst Grange is about participation as much as performance. We believe every child should have the opportunity to experience the joy of making music, regardless of ability or previous experience. Through performing, creating, and collaborating, pupils develop confidence, discipline, creativity, and resilience—qualities that enrich their education and remain with them throughout their lives.

At Oakhyrst Grange, music inspires, connects, and empowers our children, helping them to find their voice, celebrate their individuality, and share in the joy of making music together.

Swimming is an important part of life at Oakhyrst Grange, providing pupils with the opportunity to develop confidence, physical strength and essential life skills in the water.

From Pre-Reception onwards, children enjoy weekly swimming lessons in our on-site pool, allowing them to develop their skills from an early age in a familiar and supportive environment.

Our experienced instructors encourage every pupil to progress at their own pace, whether they are taking their first steps in the water or refining advanced swimming techniques.

Our swimming programme focuses on building strong foundations in water confidence, safety, stroke technique and stamina. Through regular practice and expert guidance, pupils learn to swim with increasing independence while developing perseverance, focus and resilience.

As part of their swimming journey, pupils also have the opportunity to work towards and achieve Swim England Learn to Swim Awards. These nationally recognised badges celebrate each stage of a child’s progress, providing clear goals, recognising individual achievement and motivating pupils as they develop their skills and confidence in the water.

Swimming is a skill for life, and we believe that every child should have the opportunity to become confident and capable in the water. As pupils progress, they are encouraged to challenge themselves, refine their technique and celebrate their achievements.

Alongside regular lessons, pupils have the opportunity to represent Oakhyrst Grange in swimming galas and competitions. Our teams regularly achieve fantastic results, with children demonstrating commitment, teamwork and pride as they compete for their school.

At Oakhyrst Grange, swimming is about far more than learning strokes; it is about nurturing confidence, encouraging ambition and helping children develop a lifelong enjoyment of being active in the water.

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Physical Education lessons are designed to build fundamental movement skills, improve fitness and promote healthy lifestyles.

Children in Pre-Reception enjoy two PE lessons each week, with a strong focus on developing agility, balance and coordination through fun and engaging activities, including gymnastics, athletics and ball skills. From Reception to Year 2, pupils take part in a weekly double PE lesson, continuing to develop these essential skills while building the foundations for success in Games lessons.

As pupils progress through the Prep School, PE lessons continue to develop strength, coordination, flexibility and physical literacy, encouraging children to challenge themselves and enjoy an active lifestyle.

Games lessons provide children with the opportunity to develop sport-specific skills, teamwork and a love of healthy competition.

In Reception, Year 1 and Year 2, pupils are introduced to a range of sports through enjoyable activities that develop fundamental techniques, communication and collaboration. From Years 3 to 6, children build their knowledge and skills across football, netball, tag rugby, hockey and cricket. Lessons focus on technical development, tactical awareness and decision-making, preparing pupils to represent the school in an exciting programme of fixtures throughout the year.

Sporting competition is an important part of school life, helping children develop resilience, sportsmanship and confidence while proudly representing their school.

Pupils in Years 3 to 6 enjoy an extensive programme of local fixtures throughout the academic year, while Oakhyrst also hosts competitions such as cross-country and hockey using our excellent facilities. Our teams regularly compete in ISA regional competitions across football, netball, swimming, cross-country, athletics and hockey, with many pupils progressing to national finals each year.

Children in Pre-Prep are also introduced to competitive sport through friendly festivals and fixtures with local schools, as well as events involving parents, helping to nurture teamwork, confidence and a love of competition from an early age.