HOLMWOOD HOUSE SCHOOL

The School is arranged by academic year groups which are divided into three or four classes or sets. There is normally a maximum of 18 in each class, or 16 in a set. In placing a child in an academic year group, we take account of both ability and age. The system allows great flexibility and individuality so that we can provide for each child's strengths and weaknesses; stretching each pupil without undue pressure. The syllabus is designed to introduce every subject in a way which will both stimulate interest and give a full understanding of the basic principles involved.

All the syllabuses are in line with the National Curriculum, except where we start subjects earlier than expected - such as French at the beginning of Year One. Of the 34 acres belonging to the school, 18 are sports grounds. They provide, according to the season, up to 9 pitches for combinations of soccer, rugby or hockey, or 5 cricket pitches, 4 rounders areas and an athletics track, adjoining jumping pits, jumping areas, and high jump area, in addition to a floodlit hard court for 4 tennis or 3 netball courts and a further floodlit tarmac area for minor games. Also within the grounds stands a new (2010) sports hall with 4 ECB standard cricket nets and courts for badminton, indoor hockey, football and netball, and an onsite associate Rackets and Fitness Members Club boasting 5 squash courts, 2 indoor tennis courts and a multi-gym (for adult use).

As in the academic arrangements, the purpose is to enable each child to make the most of his or her potential and to increase enjoyment. There are frequent matches against other schools of all ages and ability levels and on some days, a dozen or more teams may be representing the school. Many children take part in a number of tournaments and competitions; in recent years the school has featured especially strongly in athletics, rugby, cricket, netball, swimming and girls' hockey.