Hunter Hall, Cumbria’s only independent prep school, takes a child-centred view of education – and wants to give power back to the pupils.
The school, in Penrith, aims to allow pupils to take ownership of their learning and make active choices about their educational journey.
Teachers facilitate their experiences through development of the critical thinking, problem-solving and self-regulation.
Parents can find out more at its open week, which runs from Tuesday May 6 to Friday May 9.
Ella Tarrant, Assistant Head Wellbeing, said: “As teachers, we are in the privileged position of guiding children on their journey, helping to equip them with the knowledge and skills that will enable them to thrive both in school and the wider world.
“And we understand that cultivating independence is part of that journey as it empowers and builds self-esteem, allowing children to be self-reliant, manage life’s challenges and be successful in their learning.
“It wasn’t until I started teaching in Reception that I realised there is a fundamentally different approach to cultivating – and celebrating – independence in the Early Years.
“The curriculum is intentionally designed to foster independence and empower the children. It emphasises providing opportunities for the children to make choices, explore their environment and take risks within a safe and supportive setting.
“As both a parent and teacher, I’ve witnessed the immense pride a child feels as they achieve something for themselves, be it taking their first steps, doing up their top button after PE, building the most amazing den without help or reading their first word.
“Often, when an adult steps in, they can hinder progress, and the child learns to become reliant on others to do things for them.
“Ultimately, pride, confidence and growth, come from autonomy.
“Yes, with the love, support and encouragement of both adults and peers, but regardless of if you are an adult or a child, real growth comes from the satisfaction of being able to do something for yourself.”
The school has created a new approach for its girls in the Upper School.
Created by Andrew Hampton, Girls On Board aims to help girls find their own solutions to friendship turbulence and help parents and the teachers understand complexities of the specific dynamics girls often experience when navigating friendships.
Ella added: “I have seen the positive impact it has already had. That lightbulb moment where they realise that they are the ones who have the power to change the outcome of any friendship issues as they are the ones who know all of the facts.
“I have been impressed by the honesty with which the girls talk of their anxiety when asked to get into pairs or when they openly express the need for a listening ear, a hug, and perhaps some chocolate, rather than an adult finding a solution.
“This approach doesn’t mean that girls won’t face friendship challenges. What it means is that they understand that they have the knowledge to understand what goes on in girl friendships and the power to change a situation by taking ownership of it.
“Maria Montessori said: ‘The greatest gifts you can give your children are the roots of responsibility and the wings of independence’.”
As it approaches its 40th year, Hunter Hall said it continued to look for ways to provide innovative child-centred education that prioritised children’s social and emotional development alongside their intellectual development.
Everyone is welcome to attend Hunter Hall’s open week, from May 6 to May 9.
To find out more or arrange a visit, go to www.hunterhall.co.uk
