A significant aspect of our personal development program is our extracurricular offerings. We are passionate about nurturing the 'whole child' and providing opportunities for children to discover and develop their unique talents.

Here are some of the activities all of our children experience at Maidenbower Infant School:

Educational Visits

To support and enhance the work the children are undertaking in the classroom, there are occasions when the children are taken on educational visits. In recent years, children have visited the Natural History Museum, Drusillas Park, Washbrooks Farm, Wakehurst, and Brocketts Farm.

Visitors and Experiences

Many of our topics are driven or supported by amazing in-school experiences. We have visitors who support our religious curriculum, including representatives from a wide range of religions and cultures. These interactions provide children with a broader understanding and appreciation of different beliefs and traditions.

The Wonder Dome enhances the children's understanding of their space topic, offering an immersive and interactive learning experience. Additionally, our Reception classes welcome a variety of visitors to support their 'People Who Help Us' topic. These visitors include professionals such as firefighters, police officers, doctors, and other community helpers, who share their experiences and explain their roles in society.

We also invite authors to visit our school, providing children with the opportunity to engage with literature in a unique and personal way. These visits inspire a love for reading and writing, as authors share their creative processes, discuss their books, and encourage students to explore their own storytelling abilities.

World Book Day at our school is not just about books and favorite characters; it's about celebrating stories from around the world. This year, we welcomed parents to visit the school to read a story in their own language. Even Mrs. Kemecsei read a story in Hungarian during assembly! This special day helps children appreciate the diversity of storytelling and the richness of different cultures.

These enriching experiences not only complement our curriculum but also inspire curiosity and a love for learning among our students.

Forest School

All our children, including those in the SSC and Nursery, experience forest school. We are lucky enough to have a passionate and experienced forest school leader. Children attending forest schools develop strong social skills, the ability to work in groups effectively, and generally have high self-esteem and confidence in their own capabilities.

Activities might include:

• Woodland and traditional crafts
• Developing stories/drama and meeting imaginary characters
• Art and sculpture work
• Exploring the landscape and history
• Playing team and group games
• Studying wildlife
• Rope and string work
• Fire lighting
• Sensory activities
• Tool use
• Cooking on an open fire

Elite Sports Coaches

We are privileged to work closely with Elite Development Coaches, who have supported us for many years. They assist with play at lunchtimes and provide individual attention to children who might need extra support. They offer a range of sporting activities that help children get active, learn new skills, and improve their overall wellbeing.

Extra Responsibilities

The school provides pupils with meaningful opportunities to understand how to be responsible, respectful, active citizens who contribute positively to society, for example through in-school responsibilities such as playground angels, school council, Eco Warriors, School Ambassadors and school fundraising opportunities.  Children are effectively developing their understanding of British values.

Music Lessons

Music plays a big part in our school. We offer one-to-one piano lessons and have recently set up our own school band where children can choose to play the guitar, keyboard, drums, or take on a vocal part. We also have a school choir where children can express their talents for singing. The choir have many opportunities to perform, including a Christmas concert, singing in church at the Easter concert, singing at the summer fair, and at our annual music concert.

All our Year 2 children learn the djembe drums and celebrate their success in an end-of-term concert for their parents.

Class Assemblies/Performing

Every child has an opportunity to perform on stage. Either in Christmas performance, class assemblies and end of year leavers assemblies. Children in Key stage one visit the local Church for Easter and take part in reading and singing during the service.

Sports Enrichments

Each half term, a sport enrichment is arranged for all children to experience. In the past, this has included golf, tennis, karate, fencing, yoga, and archery. We feel that this is a fantastic way for children to discover either their passion or talent.

Incredible Wall

Our Incredible Wall is a true centerpiece in our school corridor, celebrating the "wow" moments our children create. This display showcases the achievements and milestones of our children, capturing their proudest moments in picture fames. It's a place where every child's success is recognised and celebrated, creating a sense of pride and accomplishment. Parents are also invited to visit and see their child's picture on the wall, sharing in the joy and pride of their achievements. The Incredible Wall not only highlights the amazing things our children do but also fosters a strong sense of community and encouragement throughout the school. It's a testament to the hard work, creativity, and dedication of our children, making it a truly inspiring sight for everyone who passes by.