Co-Curricular (Prep)

At Howe Green House we pride ourselves on offering a diverse and broad extracurricular program that includes something for everyone.  We are incredibly lucky to have such a wonderful, hardworking staff team, as well as experienced external providers that possess a range of eclectic skills to create a unique extracurricular timetable for our pupils.  The timetable is changed each term, with something new on offer each term.

We offer a fantastic selection of sports and physical activities, including Football, Tag Rugby, Cricket, Netball, Karate, Athletics, Zumba, Cross Country, Boxercise, Fencing and Tennis.  As well as a broad range of sporting options, we also offer a great range of other activities including Woodland School with ‘Mud Pigs’, Arts and Crafts, Dance and Drama, Photography, Computing and Book Club.  There is also a Wellbeing Club to focus on maintaining a healthy mind, as well as ‘Walking with Willow’ where children have the opportunity to spend time with our lovely therapy dog, Willow.  In addition, from Monday to Thursday, children can choose to go to Homework Club, allowing them to complete any homework tasks within school, so that they can relax when they get home after a busy school day!

School trips are some of the most memorable aspects of school life with the potential to spark a lifelong passion or curiosity. Not only do they provide an opportunity for pupils to learn outside the classroom, but they also help to develop their social skills, increase confidence and encourage personal development.

Here at our Howe Green House school, we love school trips and recognise their incredible value. Each year group is taken on unforgettable outings every year. Often, we make the most of our local surroundings with trips to farms, museums, castles and galleries as well as taking the train to London or visiting Cambridge.

In the past, our Prep children have visited places such as Celtic Harmony Camp, Kentwell Hall, Colchester Zoo and The Globe Theatre engaging in valuable experiences and bringing new knowledge back to the classroom.

Opening pupils’ minds to new cultures and gaining knowledge about specific topics from places they have visited are some of the many reasons why school trips are so important for our pupils. A school outing promotes real world experience that cannot be taught in the classroom and can be truly inspiring for the children.

Immersing children in the wonders of nature and building an appreciation of the great outdoors is an important part of a child’s education at Howe Green House and Little Oaks Nursery. The benefits of Outdoor Education are numerous, fostering holistic development and cultivating a profound connection with the environment.

At Howe Green House, children engage in hands-on learning, enhancing their physical and motor skills as they navigate uneven terrain, develop practical skills and explore natural landscapes. This immersive outdoor experience promotes a sense of independence, resilience and self-confidence, empowering children to overcome challenges and develop problem-solving skills.

The wonderful setting of Howe Green House has a number of rich outdoor learning environments, stimulating creativity and imagination. From growing seeds and plants in the school’s greenhouse to den building in the grounds and trips to the nearby Hatfield Forest, you will always find the children ready to explore with their wellies waiting for them outside their classroom!

During their lessons, social skills flourish in the outdoor setting, as children collaborate on projects, share discoveries, and communicate happily. The inclusive nature of outdoor education promotes teamwork and empathy, strengthening interpersonal relationships. Moreover, the exposure to the natural world promotes positive mental health and fosters well-being.

By instilling a sense of responsibility towards the Earth, we hope the children leave Howe Green House with a strong ecological ethic and ensures they are environmentally conscious citizens of the future.

At Howe Green House School, we believe that learning extends far beyond the classroom, which is why our residential trips are a vital part of our Prep curriculum. These experiences provide a wide range of opportunities for personal growth, independence and adventure.

Starting in Year Three, our pupils embark on their first overnight staycation — a gentle introduction to the excitement of residential trips. As they progress through the school, the duration and scope of these trips expand, culminating in a memorable four-night adventure in Year Six.

Our residential trips are designed to challenge pupils in new environments, encourage teamwork, and build confidence. Each year brings fresh opportunities for our pupils to explore, bond with their peers and develop skills that will benefit them both in and out of the classroom.

A Glimpse of Our Past Residentials:

• Year Three: A one-night staycation — a perfect introduction to time away from home.
• Year Four: A one-night adventure in the local area, offering new activities and experiences.
• Year Five: A three-night residential trip, broadening horizons and fostering independence.
• Year Six: A four-night Capstone trip, providing lasting memories and growth.

Our previous trips have taken us to exciting locations such as:

• Isle of Wight – An island adventure filled with history, natural beauty and team-building activities.
• West Mersea – A coastal escape where students engage in water sports and outdoor exploration.
• Aberdovey – An exhilarating outdoor adventure centre, offering everything from mountain hikes to water-based challenges.

Each residential is carefully planned to ensure pupils are safe, supported and inspired to push their boundaries while creating unforgettable memories.