insideKENT Magazine Issue 54 - September 2016 | Page 132

EDUCATION IN ASSOCIATION WITH Sevenoaks Prep Luke Harrison, Head of Sevenoaks Prep, discusses the importance of a Prep School ethos in Years 7 and 8. The first years of secondary education are crucial; pupils should thrive in an environment where they feel challenged, nurtured and respected. Sevenoaks Prep is the perfect setting for this to happen. The academic curriculum stimulates our students, preparing them for entrance examinations and scholarships. There are many opportunities to take responsibility and lead; our students are our ambassadors and our prefects help us to run the school. Our Oak Award encourages our young people to consider their role in the wider world, inspiring them to challenge themselves, make the most of their creativity, and contribute to their community. Years 7 and 8 are a period of physical and emotional change; it is a sensitive time and the value of being in a caring environment where class sizes are small and every teacher knows every child 136 extremely well is key to ensuring that our students feel supported. Our students go on to attend a wide variety of independent secondary schools at 13. Through working closely with parents and understanding each individual student’s needs, we ensure the chosen secondary school is the most appropriate setting for them to succeed academically and thrive personally. We want our pupils to leave us as individuals who are confident in their own abilities, who cherish friendships, welcome responsibility, understand their place in community and who know the value of teamwork. One only has to look at the accomplishments of our former students to know that we achieve our aims. For further information about opportunities at Sevenoaks Prep, please visit www.theprep.org.uk