Dr Lynda Brereton

King’s Acremont, the Nursery School and Pre-Preparatory section of The King's School Ely received an outstanding report following the latest school inspection in May 2003. Inspectors said: ‘Young children are given an excellent start to their education … the warm, welcoming environment promotes learning and there is an excellent relationship between children, parents and teachers.’

Language and literacy provision win praise. 'A wide variety of activities develops the children's ability to speak clearly listen attentively and learn to understand the importance and uses of the written word and develop a love and enjoyment of books'. Activities to challenge and motivate children to increase their mathematical ability are 'very good' and physical skills are 'effectively developed' with an 'extensive range of indoor and outdoor equipment'. Children are 'encouraged to express themselves freely and use their imagination through drama, role-play and music and movement. A 'good variety of creative experiences are provided, particularly in art and craft work'. The 'excellent partnership with parents and carers and excellent links with the community' are also noted.

Acremont was acquired by The King's School 20 years ago. The Nursery was added in 1996 when the school bought an adjoining Georgian House in its own grounds, five minutes' walk from the Junior and Senior sections of the school.

Many boys and girls joining King’s Acremont Reception as four-year-olds have attended the Nursery where children are accepted from two-and-a-half. During Year 2 there is constant liaison with Year 3 staff in the Junior School (Years 3-8) to ensure continuity and progression in the curriculum. Children are fully prepared for this next stage of their education and feel part of the wider King's School community thanks to involvement in such occasions as end-of-term services, plays and concerts. Music 'taster sessions' begin in Year 2 when they are encouraged to try up to six instruments.

The Breakfast Club, from 8am, and after-school club Grasshopper Club until 6pm, are popular, particularly with families where both parents work, especially those travelling from Cambridge (15 miles) and Newmarket (12 miles) who increasingly choose King’s Acremont for the crucial early years of their children's development.

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