This article is sponsored by Barnard Castle School.

Barnard Castle Prep School is where the foundations of children’s learning are laid.

It is here that children enjoy an inspiring and nurturing experience that sets them on a rewarding and happy journey in education.

Ahead of this major milestone, parents and children are being invited to learn more about where “Barney’s” school journey begins.

An open morning is being held at the co-educational independent day and boarding school in County Durham, which has a history that stretches back to the 19th century.

The event on October 1, which also includes the Senior School, is aimed at giving parents and pupils an opportunity to get a feel for the school, inspect the facilities and chat with peers and staff.

Barnard Castle School’s Prep School headmistress Laura Turner said:

“We tell our parents that our collective role, as parents and teachers, is to arm our children with the tools with which to clear the path ahead of them, not to clear the path for them.

“This means we have to allow them to fail at times, in a supportive environment. If we do that together, we are doing our best to prepare our young people for the challenges ahead.”

Pupils at Barnard Castle School.

The Prep School, which ranges from reception to Year 6, offers creative curriculums in each year group allow children to be engaged and become independent learners and thinkers.

These are practiced alongside a robust, wide-ranging extra-curricular activity programme, including regular lessons in Forest School.

Ms Turner said:

“In the pupils’ final year at Prep School, we focus on preparing the children for transition to Senior School whilst maintaining the safety and security of a familiar class environment.

“As an alternative to SATs, Barney’s Year 6 Achievement Award provides a focus for the children, fostering in them a more mature, ambitious and independent approach to study and recognising their commitment right across the curriculum.

“We place enormous emphasis on ensuring each and every pupil feels a sense of belonging at ‘Barney’; only then will they come close to maximising their potential.”

The school has a history that stretches back to the 19th century.

The Prep School also offers junior boarding, which boasts a “wonderful community of pupils” and a “family feel”.

Ms Turner added:

“Boarders at Barney become rounded, independent, and responsible Barnardians. They develop empathy and kindness for their peers, as well as a true appreciation for the family environment, mutual trust, and respect.

“Our boarding family is a wonderful community of pupils from a variety of countries, with the largest percentage coming from UK-based families.

“Our team have created an environment that pupils aspire to part of; it is one of warmth and nurture, enthusiasm and House spirit and, overwhelmingly, a sense of family.”

Situated on the outskirts of historic market town of Barnard Castle, an extensive transport service is operated from across the North East and North Yorkshire to the school.

To find out more about what makes education at Barnard Castle School so special, contact a member of the admissions team on 01833 696030 or email admissions@barneyschool.org.uk