Curriculum

Creating with confidence

Art & Design Technology Engineering at The Perse Prep encourages every pupil to develop confidence, creativity and technical skill through ambitious projects inspired by artists, cultures and historical movements. As they progress through Years 3 to 6, children experiment with a wide range of materials and techniques, discovering new ways to express their ideas while developing their own artistic style.

Learning through creativity

Our specialist curriculum carefully balances strong technical foundations with creative exploration, building skills progressively from Years 3 to 6. Through sketchbooks, artist studies and ambitious practical projects, pupils explore painting, printmaking, ceramics, sculpture, textiles and photography, learning to think independently while mastering an increasingly wide range of artistic techniques.

Beyond the classroom

Creativity extends beyond lessons through Art Club and Photography Club, giving pupils opportunities to develop their interests further. Year 6 pupils visit The Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge to study original works of art, while Year 5 takes part in a Land Art Workshop at The Perse Upper School, creating large-scale outdoor installations inspired by the natural environment.

A celebration of creativity

The annual Summer Exhibition is one of the highlights of the Prep School calendar, transforming the school into a gallery of pupils’ work. Every child exhibits a finished piece, celebrating creativity, individual expression and the progress they have made throughout the year.

Building the digital skills of the future

From their very first lessons in Computer Science, pupils develop real computing skills through a curriculum that progresses from unplugged problem-solving to coding, artificial intelligence and text-based programming. Along the way, they learn how computers work, think computationally and use technology creatively to solve real-world problems.

Learning through innovation

Our progressive Computer Science curriculum builds knowledge and confidence from Years 3 to 6 through practical, hands-on learning. Pupils create animations and games in Scratch, programme Micro:bits, explore the opportunities and ethical considerations of AI, and take part in cross-curricular projects that bring computing to life. Alongside developing technical skills, pupils are inspired by the achievements of computing pioneers including Ada Lovelace, Alan Turing and Katherine Johnson, discovering how innovation has shaped the modern world.

Beyond the classroom

There are plenty of opportunities to develop computing skills beyond lessons. Pupils can join Coding Club, while members of the Cyber Squad take on positions of responsibility, helping to maintain equipment and support the smooth running of technology across the school. A cross-curricular Computer Science and Design Technology project also challenges pupils to build their own movable vehicle and programme it using a Micro:bit.

Computing in action

During Inspiration Week, pupils visit the Centre for Computing History in Cambridge to explore the evolution of technology. Many also take part in the Bebras Computational Thinking Challenge, with high-scoring pupils progressing to the prestigious Raspberry Pi Coding Challenge. More recently, Year 5 pupils have chosen to investigate artificial intelligence as part of their Perse Global Perspectives research projects, demonstrating how computing connects with wider questions about the future.

Developing confident digital learners

Digital Literacy equips pupils with the practical skills and confidence to use technology effectively in their learning and everyday lives. Working with computers, laptops and iPads, they create podcasts, films, presentations and other digital projects while developing the typing, research and communication skills that will support them throughout their education.

Learning through real-world projects

Each year explores a different theme linked to careers and the wider world, helping pupils understand how digital skills are used in professions ranging from accountancy and graphic design to broadcasting and media. Through project-based learning, children strengthen their understanding of digital tools while pursuing topics that interest them, keeping lessons engaging, relevant and creative.

Beyond the classroom

Pupils can continue developing their skills through Typing Club, while Year 6 pupils can apply to become members of the Cyber Squad. These digital leaders help younger pupils, care for equipment and take responsibility for keeping technology running smoothly across the Prep. During Inspiration Week, Year 5 also visits the Centre for Computing History in Cambridge, discovering how technology has evolved and how innovation continues to shape our lives.

Recent highlights

Digital Literacy is now a standalone subject at The Perse Prep, reflecting the growing importance of digital skills in education and everyday life. The dedicated curriculum gives pupils regular opportunities to build confidence with technology, preparing them to become capable, responsible and adaptable digital citizens.

Building confidence through performance

Drama is part of every child’s journey through The Perse Prep. From Year 3 onwards, pupils develop their imagination, confidence and communication skills through weekly drama lessons and an annual year group production. Every child has the opportunity to perform, collaborate and discover the excitement of bringing stories to life.

Learning through performance

Drama lessons are practical, creative and full of variety. Pupils explore script work, improvisation and a range of theatrical styles, learning how to create convincing characters, work effectively as an ensemble and communicate with confidence. As they progress through the Prep School, they are encouraged to take increasing ownership of their performances, developing resilience, creativity and teamwork along the way.

Beyond the classroom

Drama continues beyond lessons through productions, drama clubs and visits from guest speakers working in the arts. Year 6 pupils enjoy a backstage tour of The Perse’s Peter Hall Performing Arts Centre, gaining an insight into the many roles involved in creating a successful production. For those interested in theatre production, Year 6 also offers opportunities to join the backstage crew, helping to design and build sets while operating lighting and sound.

Recent highlights

Every year group performs a production, giving every child the opportunity to shine on stage. In Year 6, productions are triple cast, allowing more pupils to take on leading roles in their final Prep School performance. Recent productions have included Shrek Jr., The Hound of the Baskervilles and The Wind in the Willows.

Growing in confidence, character and wellbeing

At The Perse Prep, PSHE and Emotional Wellbeing are given dedicated curriculum time every week. Pupils benefit from a full hour that combines PSHE, led by the Assistant Head (Pastoral), with ring-fenced Emotional Wellbeing lessons taught by Form Teachers. Together, these sessions help children develop confidence, resilience, empathy and the skills to navigate everyday life.

Learning for life

Our ambitious spiral curriculum revisits important themes as pupils progress through the Prep School, allowing them to explore increasingly complex issues in an age-appropriate way. Shaped by pupil voice, pastoral priorities, statutory guidance and close collaboration across the Perse family of schools, the curriculum remains relevant, responsive and carefully connected from Pelican through to Upper School.

A distinctive feature of our approach is the SMSC Tree, which provides a shared language for values such as confidence, fairness, democracy, responsibility, respect, diversity and citizenship. These ideas are woven through lessons, assemblies and everyday school life, helping pupils make meaningful connections between what they learn and how they live.

Beyond the classroom

Learning extends beyond weekly lessons through Wellbeing Week, Anti-Bullying Week and a programme of specialist workshops. Pupils take part in Karl Hopwood’s online safety sessions, the NSPCC’s Speak Out, Stay Safe programme and 52 Lives kindness workshops. Visits from magistrates, police officers and other guest speakers bring important topics to life, while Year 4 visits Hazard Alley, Years 3 and 5 work with the Life Education Bus, and Year 6 explores the Rule of Law through the All Rise workshop.

Recent highlights

Pupils are increasingly confident discussing topics such as mental health, consent, inclusion and online responsibility. Through regular reflection, thoughtful discussion and opportunities to share their views, they play an active role in shaping the curriculum while developing the confidence to contribute positively to school life and the wider community.

Reading, writing and finding your voice

English at The Perse Prep inspires pupils to become thoughtful readers, confident writers and articulate communicators. Through a rich and varied English curriculum, children explore classic and contemporary literature, develop their own creative writing and discover how language can inform, persuade and inspire. Above all, we want every pupil to develop a lifelong love of reading and the confidence to express their ideas clearly, both in writing and through spoken communication.

Learning through language and literature

Lessons encourage pupils to think deeply about the texts they read while developing the skills to write with accuracy, imagination and purpose. Children explore novels, poetry, plays and non-fiction, discussing characters, themes and ideas before crafting their own stories, speeches and reports. Regular opportunities for speaking and listening help pupils become confident communicators, able to present their thoughts with clarity and conviction.

Reading sits at the heart of English at The Perse Prep. Pupils are encouraged to read widely, challenge themselves with new authors and genres, and share recommendations with their classmates. Weekly visits to the library, supported by our dedicated librarian, help foster curiosity, independent reading habits and a genuine enjoyment of books.

Beyond the classroom

English extends beyond lessons through author visits, Book Week celebrations, reading challenges and creative writing opportunities. Pupils enjoy taking part in poetry recitals, story-writing competitions and literary events that bring books to life and encourage creativity. Libraries across the Prep School provide welcoming spaces where children can discover new authors, broaden their reading and develop a lifelong appreciation of literature.

Recent highlights

English is celebrated throughout the school year, with pupils regularly sharing their writing, performing poetry and taking part in literary events that showcase their creativity and enthusiasm for language. Particular highlights include our annual Public Speaking Competition, the Balloon Debate and the Poetry Declamation Competition, which provide opportunities for pupils to develop confidence, communication skills and a love of performance.

Learning a language with confidence

French at The Perse Prep is lively, practical and full of opportunities to use the language in real-life situations. From Year 3 onwards, pupils develop their speaking, listening, reading and writing skills with specialist French teachers who share their enthusiasm for the language and its culture, helping every child grow in confidence year by year.

Learning through creativity

French lessons are active, collaborative and designed to encourage pupils to use French from the very beginning. Children might create weather forecasts, produce their own black-and-white films or stage a French fashion show, building their vocabulary and understanding of grammar through imaginative, hands-on activities. With a focus on learning ‘on our feet’, lessons are engaging, energetic and enjoyable.

Beyond the classroom

Pupils can continue their language learning through the World Languages Club, where they have the opportunity to explore other languages at beginners’ level. These experiences encourage curiosity about different cultures and often inspire children to continue their language learning as they move into the Upper School.

In France

One of the highlights of the Prep experience is the four-day residential visit to northern France in Year 5. Pupils put their language skills into practice while visiting Europe’s largest aquarium, meeting animals on a local farm, exploring a traditional bakery and shopping at a French market. It’s an unforgettable opportunity to experience French language and culture first-hand.

Understanding our changing world

Geography helps pupils understand the people, places and environments that shape our world. From exploring rivers and landscapes to investigating climate change and global challenges, children develop curiosity about the world around them while learning how places are connected and why they matter.

Learning through enquiry

At The Perse Prep, Geography is taught through an enquiry-led approach that encourages pupils to ask questions, investigate evidence and think independently. Lessons combine map work, practical investigations and collaborative learning, helping children develop geographical knowledge alongside the critical thinking and problem-solving skills that prepare them for future study and life beyond the classroom.

Beyond the classroom

Our Cambridge location provides a wealth of opportunities for fieldwork and first-hand learning. Pupils explore Grantchester Meadows and the River Cam, investigate the impact of climate change around the School site, and learn from guest speakers who bring geographical issues to life. These experiences help pupils connect classroom learning with the real world while developing practical skills in observation, data collection and geographical enquiry.

Fieldwork in action

Fieldwork is embedded throughout the Geography curriculum, giving pupils regular opportunities to investigate places for themselves. By exploring local landscapes, analysing environmental change and carrying out their own geographical investigations, they gain the confidence to think like young geographers and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them.

Understanding the world through the past

History at The Perse Prep helps pupils make sense of the world around them by exploring the people, societies and civilisations that have shaped human experience. Through a carefully sequenced curriculum, pupils develop a strong understanding of chronology, allowing them to place events confidently in time and recognise patterns of change, continuity and connection across different periods and cultures.

Thinking like a historian

Pupils are encouraged to ask questions, investigate evidence and develop their own interpretations of the past. Through the study of sources, artefacts, historical accounts and reconstructions, they learn to explain events, evaluate different viewpoints and support their ideas with evidence.

Our enquiry-based curriculum introduces pupils to a wide range of fascinating world civilisations alongside key periods of British history. From ancient societies in Egypt, Mesopotamia, China and Greece to the Romans, Saxons, Vikings, Tudors and Georgians, pupils develop a global perspective while gaining an understanding of how societies developed and interacted over time.

Beyond the classroom

History comes alive through immersive experience days, themed workshops, cross-curricular projects and opportunities for independent research. Pupils step back in time through role play, artefacts and practical activities that deepen their understanding of the periods they study.

A range of talks, workshops and in-school history events enrich learning further, encouraging curiosity, creativity and confidence. These experiences allow pupils to explore historical topics in greater depth while developing their skills as researchers, presenters and critical thinkers.

Recent highlights

History continues to inspire outstanding engagement across the Prep School. Recent highlights include a series of successful history experience days, which have enabled pupils to immerse themselves in the worlds they study and bring historical learning vividly to life.

Pupils regularly demonstrate impressive chronological understanding, thoughtful interpretations of historical sources and a genuine enthusiasm for exploring both British history and the wider civilisations of the world. Through discussion, investigation and enquiry, they develop the curiosity and confidence that sit at the heart of historical learning.

Exploring patterns and solving problems

Mathematics at The Perse Prep encourages pupils to think logically, solve problems creatively and enjoy the satisfaction of discovering how ideas fit together. As they progress through the Prep School, they build confidence with number, shape, measure and data while developing the curiosity and resilience to tackle increasingly challenging questions.

Learning through problem-solving

Our Mathematics lessons go beyond finding the right answer. Through practical investigations, rich mathematical challenges and collaborative reasoning, pupils are encouraged to explore different strategies, explain their thinking and make connections between ideas. Working together, they discover that there is often more than one way to solve a problem, developing independence and the confidence to embrace new challenges.

Beyond the classroom

Mathematics continues beyond lessons through drop-in Maths Club, after-school STEM activities, Pi Day celebrations and a range of national competitions. These opportunities allow pupils to explore mathematics in different ways, work collaboratively and stretch their problem-solving skills through creative and engaging challenges.

Challenging young mathematicians

Pupils are encouraged to test their mathematical thinking by taking part in competitions including the First Maths Challenge, Primary Maths Challenge, Primary Olympiad and Junior Maths Challenge. These experiences celebrate perseverance, curiosity and logical thinking while inspiring pupils to enjoy the challenge of mathematics.

Making music together

Music at The Perse Prep enables every child to become an active musician. Through singing, composing, listening and performing, pupils develop their musical skills while exploring music from a wide range of cultures and traditions. Specialist teaching ensures that every child is challenged and supported, from their first musical experiences to advanced performance.

Learning through music

Music lessons combine whole-class singing, composition and ensemble performance, helping pupils develop musicianship, creativity and self-expression. As they progress through the Prep School, children build their understanding of musical elements and styles while learning to perform, collaborate and communicate through music.

Beyond the classroom

Music plays a vibrant role in life at The Perse Prep. Pupils can join choirs, orchestras, bands and chamber groups, perform in assemblies, concerts and productions, and take on leadership opportunities through mentoring and musical ambassador roles.

Pupils perform in two major concerts each year at the Upper School Performing Arts Centre, while Year 3 pupils visit Denis Wilson Court to share songs from their Christmas production. Musical activity days and school productions provide further opportunities to develop performance skills and experience live music-making.

Recent highlights

Recent highlights include outstanding concerts at the Upper School Performing Arts Centre, successful musical productions, thriving choirs and ensembles, and pupils achieving excellent results in instrumental music examinations. These opportunities help foster a lifelong enjoyment of music and contribute to the strong performing arts culture at The Perse Prep.

Sport for all

At The Perse Prep, every pupil is encouraged to participate, improve and succeed through PE, Games lessons, fixtures, house matches and competitions. Sporting opportunities are available for all abilities, while pupils performing at a high level are challenged through regional and national tournaments.

Outstanding facilities and coaching

Pupils benefit from exceptional facilities across the Perse campus. PE lessons take place in The Perse Sports Centre, which includes a state-of-the-art six-lane, 25-metre swimming pool, climbing wall and sports hall. Games lessons make use of extensive playing fields, an Olympic-sized astro pitch and four-lane cricket nets.

A particular strength of the programme is the quality and continuity of coaching. Specialist staff teach pupils across both PE and Games, ensuring excellent teaching, consistent support and strong pupil-staff relationships throughout the Prep School.

Beyond the classroom

Sport extends far beyond lessons through fixtures, inter-house competitions, regional and national tournaments, Sports Day and the Year 6 Ski Trip. These opportunities allow pupils to represent the school, develop teamwork and challenge themselves in a wide range of sporting environments.

Recent highlights

Perse Prep pupils have enjoyed outstanding success in recent years. The Under 11 boys’ hockey team has been crowned national champions twice in the last five years, while the boys’ football team has reached the ISFA National Finals at St George’s Park for five consecutive years. The Under 11 girls’ football team has also qualified for the national finals in each of the last three years.

The school has produced several national table tennis champions, including three of the first four Under 11 girls’ IAPS national champions. Perse athletes have also achieved national success, with the Under 11 boys’ 4x100m relay team winning a national title, while pupils have previously represented Great Britain in tennis and won IAPS national championships in both boys’ and girls’ events.

Exploring beliefs, ideas and big questions

Philosophy, Ethics and Religion encourages pupils to explore different beliefs, ask thoughtful questions and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. Through the study of the world’s major religions and philosophy, children learn to appreciate different perspectives, engage in respectful dialogue and develop the empathy and open-mindedness that are essential in today’s diverse society.

Learning through enquiry

A distinctive feature of the curriculum is our use of Philosophy for Children (P4C). This enquiry-based approach encourages pupils to generate their own questions, think critically and work collaboratively as they explore complex ideas. In Year 6, pupils study philosophy in greater depth, developing their critical, creative and caring thinking while learning to consider different viewpoints with confidence and respect.

Beyond the classroom

Learning is enriched through visits, creative projects and contributions from guest speakers. A visit to the Cambridge Central Mosque gives Year 5 pupils the opportunity to experience its remarkable blend of Islamic and English architecture while learning about faith, community and sustainability. Throughout the curriculum, pupils also use art, drama and independent research to deepen their understanding of different beliefs and philosophical ideas. Plans are also in place for visits to Ely Cathedral and the Cambridge Synagogue, further broadening pupils’ understanding of different faith traditions.

Learning in action

Philosophy, Ethics and Religion encourages pupils to put their thinking into practice. As part of their Year 6 study of selflessness, pupils recently designed and displayed ‘Random Acts of Kindness’ posters around the school, demonstrating how philosophical enquiry can inspire thoughtful action and contribute positively to the school community.

Questioning, discovering and experimenting

Science at The Perse Prep nurtures children’s natural curiosity about the world. Through practical investigation and hands-on enquiry, pupils explore biology, chemistry and physics, developing the confidence to ask questions, test ideas and discover how science helps us understand the world around us.

Learning through investigation

Science lessons are designed to encourage pupils to think and work like scientists. They make predictions, carry out experiments, observe carefully and evaluate their findings, developing the skills to draw conclusions based on evidence. As they move through the Prep School, pupils build scientific knowledge alongside important skills such as observation, problem-solving, teamwork and critical thinking.

Beyond the classroom

Learning extends beyond the laboratory through STEM activities, science workshops and enrichment opportunities that encourage pupils to explore scientific ideas in new ways. Practical investigations, cross-curricular projects and visits help children make connections between their classroom learning and the wider world, inspiring them to continue asking questions and seeking answers.

Science in action

Science is brought to life through regular practical work, where pupils investigate, experiment and discover for themselves. By encouraging curiosity and a willingness to explore new ideas, the curriculum develops confident young scientists who are well prepared for the exciting opportunities that await them in the Upper School.

Preparing pupils for a changing world

Our 21st Century Skills programme equips pupils with the confidence, curiosity and transferable skills they will need to thrive in an ever-changing world. Delivered through three distinctive courses in Years 4, 5 and 6, it develops communication, critical thinking, research, collaboration and linguistic curiosity alongside the wider curriculum.

Three years of discovery

Each year group explores a different aspect of the programme.

In Year 4, pupils study Oracy, developing their speaking and listening skills through creative projects such as persuasive speeches and an introduction to philosophy. They learn how to communicate clearly, engage an audience and express their ideas with confidence.

In Year 5, pupils take Perse Global Perspectives, a problem-solving course that encourages them to explore local, national and global issues. They work collaboratively, develop their critical thinking skills and learn how to research effectively using The Perse Research Model, from generating thoughtful questions through to evaluating the success of their investigations.

In Year 6, pupils study Linguistics, exploring how languages are formed, connected and evolve over time. They are introduced to Ancient Greek, Latin, Hindi, Mandarin, Arabic and British Sign Language (BSL) before considering how languages may continue to develop in the future.

Beyond the classroom

The 21st Century Skills programme is enriched through clubs, performances and visiting speakers, particularly during Inspiration Week. Pupils have the opportunity to hear from experts on topics such as Forgotten Languages, while links with Drama Spotlight and language clubs allow them to develop their interests beyond the classroom.

Skills in action

Throughout the 21st Century Skills programme, pupils put their learning into practice. They perform speeches and presentations to their classmates in Oracy, carry out independent research through Perse Global Perspectives, and experiment with writing systems from each of the six languages they encounter in Linguistics. Together, these experiences help pupils become confident communicators, thoughtful researchers and curious learners, well prepared for the next stage of their education.