Our approach emphasises a well-rounded education, integrating academic study, music, sports, artistic creativity, performing arts, and wider life-enhancing co-curricular experiences.
Uppingham’s educational philosophy is rooted in its heritage, whereby Edward Thring, (Headmaster 1853-87) pioneered the concept of a holistic education. The Lower School years at Uppingham embrace the same philosophy, offering a sporting and co-curricular programme that mirrors the values of the wider school.
Running alongside our challenging and inspiring academic curriculum, Lower School pupils also experience a wide range of activities and opportunities, making use of the state-of-the-art facilities that set Uppingham apart.
There is a competitive programme of sport on a Wednesday afternoon. Either side of this point in the week, is an opportunity for another sport training session and an additional PE lesson. The sports programme includes both single-sex and co-ed sports.
Although our new lower school offer runs from Monday to Friday, we are exploring what opportunities there are for participating in U13/U12 fixtures and tournaments on Saturday mornings.
We are fortunate to have three music schools and our own theatre with a separate drama studio, and a host of creative staff working within them. The music and drama departments ensure the lower school pupils can enjoy performing arts. There are opportunities for all children to participate, with the ambition being that the pupils will work towards performances.
There is an age-appropriate outdoor education programme as part of the co-curricular activities. We are fortunate to have an arboretum, where we have a hub for outdoor learning. The staff who will lead on this aspect of the curriculum build on the expertise they have from initiatives like the Duke of Edinburgh Award and the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) activities.
The Lower School will has full access to Uppingham’s facilities, including the Science Centre, Leonardo Centre, Sports Centre, School Theatre, and Music Schools. They also benefit from the school’s co-curricular programme, which provides opportunities for the pupils to explore various interests and develop new skills.
Within the timetable, we ensure that the pupils come together in Chapel during the week. The pupils do not join the senior school Chapel but have a specially curated service or assembly, led by the School Chaplain, The Reverend Stephen Bishop, supported by other members of the wider school community.