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School life
At Willow Tree, we are passionate about outdoor learning and hands-on experiences, both within the classroom and beyond. As children progress through the school, they are offered a wealth of enriching opportunities that support their personal growth, creativity, and confidence, including school trips (over 50 in 2024-25), extra-curricular clubs and one-off events (40+ last year). Pupils can also take on leadership roles such as School Council and Wellbeing Warriors, helping them develop responsibility and a strong sense of community.
Our school site is a vibrant community hub, hosting a wide range of activities during evenings and weekends. These include swimming, dance, Rainbows & Brownies, musical theatre, and sports clubs, giving children even more ways to explore their interests and connect with others.
In addition to music lessons delivered in school, we proudly partner with the North Yorkshire Music Hub to offer specialist instrumental tuition, enabling children to learn a variety of instruments and nurture their musical talents with expert support.
EYFS
Our Reception classrooms are purposeful, bright, and vibrant spaces designed to inspire curiosity and a love of learning from the very start. With large windows that flood the room with natural light and colourful, engaging displays, the environment is both welcoming and stimulating. A key feature of our Reception provision is our strong emphasis on outdoor learning. Children have daily access to a well-equipped outdoor area where they can explore, play, and learn through hands-on experiences that support their physical, social, and emotional development. This blend of indoor and outdoor learning ensures a rich, balanced start to their educational journey.
Key Stage 1
In Key Stage 1, we offer an exciting and engaging learning experience where outdoor exploration and physical development are key priorities. Our children enjoy access to spacious outdoor play areas, including a large sandpit that encourages creativity and sensory play. A standout feature of our curriculum is our free, high-quality swimming programme—every child swims for a full term each year throughout their time at school. This not only builds water confidence and essential life skills but also promotes physical fitness and resilience. Beyond the classroom, pupils are encouraged to take on meaningful roles within the school community, such as becoming Reading Champions, Wellbeing Warriors, School Council members, Art Council representatives, and more. These opportunities help children develop leadership, responsibility, and a strong sense of belonging.
Key Stage 2
In Key Stage 2, we continue to build on our commitment to outdoor learning and holistic development. Our pupils benefit from access to extensive school grounds, providing rich opportunities for exploration, physical activity, and outdoor education across the curriculum. Our free swimming programme continues, with children swimming once every term, ensuring consistent development of water confidence and life-saving skills. In addition to all the opportunities available in KS1—such as leadership roles, sports competitions, and creative awards—KS2 pupils can also join the Willow Tree Choir, which performs in concerts throughout the year, showcasing their musical talents and teamwork. Children also have the chance to take part in a wider range of individual and team-based sporting tournaments and competitions, including triathlon, cross-country, football, dodgeball and more. These further promote resilience, fitness, and personal achievement. Alongside a strong academic foundation, our pupils grow into confident, well-rounded individuals ready for the next stage of their learning journey.