FAQs

1. What makes Carleton House Preparatory School unique?

Carleton House Preparatory School offers a nurturing, family-focused environment where every child is known and valued. We provide a rich academic curriculum, specialist teaching, and a wide range of extracurricular opportunities to support holistic development. Through small class sizes and a high adult ratio to pupils, you can be sure your child will get the individual attention they need to succeed.

2. What is the admissions process?

Our admissions process begins with a visit to the school, followed by submission of an application form. We operate two separate processes for admission in to Nursery and Reception. A place in Nursery does not guarantee a place in Reception. Please contact the school office to arrange a visit and learn more about our Admission processes. A copy of our Admissions Policy can be found on the admissions page of the website.

3. What age groups do you cater for?

We welcome children from Nursery (age 3) to Year 6 (age 11). Our Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) includes Nursery and Reception, and we provide a seamless transition into Key Stages 1 and 2.

4. How do you support academic excellence?

We have dedicated class teachers and teaching assistants in Key Stages 1 and 2, with a focus on small class sizes and personalised learning. Our curriculum includes preparation for 11+ and selective school entrance exams, with a strong emphasis on English, Maths, and core subjects.

5. What extracurricular activities are available?

Outside of school hours we offer a wide range of extracurricular activities including sports clubs, choir, drama, debating, archery and orchestra. Our extra curriculum page on our website will provide a full overview of the clubs and activities available.

6. What pastoral care do you provide?

Our school prioritises the well-being of every child. We follow the Jigsaw PSHE scheme and the Catholic Archdiocesan programme 'A Journey in Love' for RSE, focusing on emotional health and respectful relationships. Our small, supportive community ensures every child feels safe and valued.

7. How do you support spiritual development?

As a Catholic school, we promote Christian values and encourage pupils to live out their faith in daily life. We follow the Liverpool Archdiocese Religious Education scheme, To know you more clearly. We have strong links with our local parish, Bishop Eton with Fr Tim being welcome regular visitor to school. We have achieved CAFOD’s Live Simply Award, encouraging sustainability, solidarity, and service.

8. What sporting opportunities are available?

We offer a broad sports programme including swimming lessons, athletics, netball, judo, and football to name but a few. Our specialist Sports teacher Mr Bennet provides Physical Education lessons to children across the school. Pupils participate in events with the Liverpool Schools Sports Partnership (LSSP) and the Liverpool and District Catholic Schools Association (LDCSA) including athletics and cross country.

9. How can parents get involved in school life?

We encourage strong parental partnerships through stay-and-play visits, open mornings, parent-child DT sessions, and regular communication via newsletters. Our active PTA organises events such as Halloween discos, Easter fairs, and an annual summer ball.

10. Do you offer before and after-school care?

Our school doors open at 8am, and although breakfast is not provided early childcare is available up until the start of lessons at 8.45am. Our After School Kids club operates on site and is available for booking. Additionally, we offer a holiday club outside of term time for children from Nursery to Year 6, with a wide range of fun and enriching activities led by our staff.

11. How do you ensure a smooth transition from Early Years to Key Stage 1?

Our EYFS team carefully plans transitions through stay-and-play sessions, transition meetings, and parental involvement opportunities. The curriculum is designed to build confidence, independence, and readiness for the next stage of learning.

12. What specialist teaching do you offer?

We provide specialist teaching in Music, Computing, PE, and Spanish, delivered by subject experts who inspire and challenge pupils across all year groups.

13. How do you support children with additional learning needs?

Our inclusive approach ensures that every child’s needs are met. We provide tailored support, small group interventions, and close monitoring to help all pupils reach their full potential.

14. Do you offer modern foreign languages?

Yes, Spanish is taught by a specialist teacher from Nursery to Year 6, focusing on language skills, cultural understanding, and building confidence in communication.

15. What music opportunities are available?

All children take part in weekly curriculum music lessons taught by our specialist music teacher, Ms White. From Year 3 the children take part in instrumental lessons through Pulse, with opportunities for children to join the school orchestra, perform in concerts, and take grade exams. Our choir also performs at Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral and the Young Voices concert.

16. How do you prepare pupils for secondary school?

We provide a well-rounded education that prepares pupils for the next stage of their academic journey, including targeted preparation for the 11+ and selective school entrance exams. We work closely with families to ensure a smooth transition to secondary school.

17. Do you organise educational trips and residentials?

Yes, pupils from Year 3 to Year 6 participate in residential trips that enhance learning and build independence. We also organise cultural and educational trips, for all year groups throughout the school year.

18. How do you promote leadership and responsibility among pupils?

We encourage leadership through our House system, where mixed-age teams participate in competitions and events. Year 6 pupils take on additional responsibilities, such as running a pre-loved uniform enterprise and supporting younger peers.

19. How do you celebrate pupil achievements?

Pupil successes are celebrated in our weekly Headteacher's newsletter, assemblies, and through awards and certificates. Achievements in sports, music, and academics are recognised and shared with the school community.

20. How do you keep parents informed about their child’s progress?

We maintain open communication with parents through regular newsletters, termly parents' evenings, and interim and end-of-year reports. Parents are also invited to events such as class assemblies, performances, and open mornings.