Teddy Bears’ Picnic draws a hungry crowd to new Pre-Prep

Future and prospective pupils for the Maynard School’s Pre-Prep Department, opening in September 2016, enjoyed a fantastic teddy bears’ picnic in their new classrooms on Thursday 21 April..

The entire 15 spaces available were taken up by girls aged 4 – 7 years, all excitedly bringing their favourite teddy bear to join in with a spot of sandwich making (and eating!) as well as some general play activities.

“There were many highlights,” said Emma Cook, who took up her role as the new Headmistress of the Pre-Prep at the start of this term, “but, for me, seeing their reaction to our lovely bright and specially adapted classrooms, together with the brand new canopy and all weather play area was just so exciting.

“Having a year-round sheltered and safe playground, which was only installed a couple of days ago, is such a luxury and the Teddy Bear’s Picnic was a wonderful opportunity to christen it!”
Emma, who has relocated from Gloucestershire back to her childhood roots in Exeter, is no stranger to the education system and brings with her a wealth of experience. Most recently, she was Head of Years 1 and 2 as well as a Year 2 Class Teacher at Beaudesert Park School where she was also acting Head of the Pre-Prep.

“I am thoroughly impressed with the ongoing investment into the new department and I’m really enjoying overseeing the adaptations and improvements being made in readiness for the grand opening in September. Stepping into the role a whole term before the pupils start is allowing me a brilliant opportunity to really stamp my mark and set my vision. I have lots of plans for the Pre-Prep and it’s great to have the time, budget and support from parents to make sure it is the Pre-Prep Department in the area!

“Ultimately, I want our girls to look forward to school each day and I’m designing a daily timetable which reflects my belief that play is as much a learning tool as a great curriculum at this age! It certainly is a very exciting time for us all here at The Maynard and I’m so pleased that the Teddy Bears’ Picnic was such a roaring success. It bodes very well for the future!”