Early Years & Key Stage 1

At Dean Close Airthrie, we aim to promote a love of learning and develop intellectual curiosity through exciting experiences both in and out of the classroom. 

We offer a broad and balanced curriculum which follows the National Curriculum.  From the moment a child joins our school in Pre-Prep, we help them to feel part of the Airthrie family straight away.

Our family has found that Airthrie’s unique ethos has provided exactly what our last child from a large family needed.  Airthrie has helped her find the tools to learn and thrive and is a truly unique place where children seem to be allowed to be children.  Homely, welcoming, cheerful, child-like, yet seeking success for each pupil.  In a competitive environment where all schools tout themselves as unique - we think Airthrie truly is!"

Teaching & Learning

Reception is our Early Years Foundation Stage class.  In this crucial, formative stage, the curriculum is tailored to give the children opportunities to explore, play, be creative, make friends and develop a love of learning.  The children follow the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum and are taught in both an indoor and outdoor classroom by highly qualified staff, alongside specialist teachers for French, Music, Drama and Sport. 

We understand the importance of strong foundations in numeracy and literacy.  From arithmetic and problem-solving to grammar and punctuation, our pupils are well prepared for the next step on their educational journey.  

Children at Airthrie are encouraged to develop their own styles of work and learning so that we can help them become independent learners and decision-makers from the earliest age.

In Years 1 and 2, we aim to develop secure foundations in all curriculum subjects.  Key Stage 1 is a time when good learning habits are developed, a love of learning is nurtured and children begin to recognise their strengths and weaknesses.  At Dean Close Airthrie, we aim to provide a lively environment and rich programme of teaching where children start to take responsibility for their own learning.