Small class sizes are one of the defining strengths of The Old Vicarage School, and they play a vital role in shaping a child’s early educational journey. With a maximum class size of 18 throughout the school, children benefit from an environment where they are truly seen, supported, and encouraged as individuals.
At this formative stage, personalised attention is essential. Smaller groups allow teachers to build strong relationships with each child, gaining a deep understanding of their learning styles, interests, and areas for development. This tailored approach helps children grow in confidence—something consistently reflected in parent feedback and inspection findings, which highlight pupils’ high self-esteem and mature levels of self‑discipline.
In early education (primary and preparatory schooling), the foundations of literacy, numeracy, and social development are laid. At OVS, small class sizes ensure that these foundations are built securely. Teachers can offer immediate feedback, adapt lessons in real time, and provide targeted support or challenge as needed. This is particularly valuable in the Early Years, where hands-on exploration, conversation-rich activities, and guided play form the basis of learning. The school’s nurturing, family-run ethos enhances this further, creating a “home away from home” where children feel safe to take risks, ask questions, and develop independence.
Small classes also strengthen the sense of community. Children form close friendships, collaborate more effectively, and develop strong communication skills. Teachers can model and reinforce the school’s core values of character and kindness throughout the day, ensuring these principles become part of daily life. There is no school over the weekend, enabling children to further develop friendships outside of school through sport, music and scouting for example, creating a strong balance of education and social input.
Parents often comment on the noticeable progress their children make—academically, socially, and emotionally—when they receive this level of individual care. With dedicated staff, a rich curriculum, and a warm, supportive environment, The Old Vicarage School demonstrates how small class sizes can make a big difference in helping every child thrive.