Out Of The Classroom
At Handcross Park learning takes many forms, both in and out of the classroom. We believe that children receive their education from many sources. We encourage them to become involved with us in other activities, from the cultural to sporting, ecological to academic. Away from the School environment children have the opportunity to see how their education relates to the world of which they are a part.
During their time at the School they’ll see History come alive with mock skirmishes at Lewes Castle and re-enactments of 1066 at Battle Abbey. They could also experience the sadness of recent history with a visit to Normandy, the graves and the battlefields.
Paddling in a river on a Geography field trip gives new meaning to testing the water!
While surely French is more fun when you practise the language in a real French cafe, in France!
Drama and Art are seen in theatres and galleries, while this year, in a first for Handcross, we took our own production of Seussical to a public theatre in East Grinstead, wowing the people of Sussex with our talented young stars. Music is very popular at Handcross Park and our staff are keen to widen children’s experience. This can involve visiting collections of historical musical instruments including harpsichords and barrel organs or going to see Mary Poppins on the London stage. Orchestra and choir trips are great fun and some, like an afternoon’s ice-skating, are organised as treats for working so well together.
Our annual ski trip has proved popular with both beginners and the more experienced daredevils! Great fun for both children and the staff who accompany them.
In Year 8 children are in their last year with us and we endeavour to plan events and trips that will help to reinforce their preparation for Senior School. We take them to see how Government works with a trip to the Palace of Westminster and a look behind the scenes at the Houses of Parliament. Windsurfing and sailing at a reservoir with Headmaster Mr Hilton develops camaraderie and confidence.
Then there is Leadership Week, this year in Torquay, where children contribute both as individuals and as part of a team. This exercise is both highly enjoyable and also helps build on the qualities your child has amassed in preparation for Senior School, the next momentous step on their educational journey. Many friendships are cemented during this week and continue well after separation to different schools. Leadership Week and all the other ‘out of the classroom’ activities draw out what is best in your child, empowering them to take on everything life has to offer with strength, determination and humour.
