A SCHOOL is celebrating after its learning programme has seen it crowned the winner of a prestigious award.

Gosfield School's early years programme has won the Independent Schools Association's (ISA) award for excellence and innovation.

The programme scooped the national award, recognising its “outstanding contribution” to this field.

Gosfield School was one of just three finalists for the national award.

The programme was highlighted in an inspection last November, where it was noted children in the early years foundation stage and prep school make "excellent progress”.

The report added: “They demonstrate excellent communication skills and are respectful and considerate when interacting with one another.

“Children have a strong understanding of their responsibilities to each other and the community and are encouraged to understand and celebrate diverse cultures and be themselves and accept others."

It also said children possess "a highly developed sense of self-understanding" due to “strong pastoral care”, adding how “staff nurture positive attitudes through enthusiastic and warm praise”.

The ISA adjudicators were impressed by the work being done by the school's early years team.

They acknowledged the school’s “unrivalled enthusiasm, experience, and commitment to nurturing every child and providing them with a rich, adventurous learning experience and the best of possible starts to their lifelong educational journey”.

Head of Gosfield Prep School and Nursery Heather Bougeard was delighted with the school’s success at the awards.

She said: "Excellence and innovation are at the heart of our school, and this journey begins with our youngest learners.

“Working closely with the early years team has been a privilege, and their dedication to helping every child reach their full potential and flourish as individuals is truly exceptional.

“I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Mrs Smith (Head of EYFS), Mrs. Gibbons (Nursery Manager), and the entire EYFS team for their outstanding hard work and dedication, which has been rightfully recognized with this esteemed award."

Limited places are available in Gosfield Prep School and Nursery for an immediate start, with parents also encouraged to register interest now for September 2024.

The school’s open morning takes place on Saturday, March 16, next year.

Personalised tours can also be requested by emailing admissions@gosfieldschool.org.uk.

More information can also be found at gosfieldschool.org.uk.