SUBJECT SPOTLIGHT: Inspiring Young Minds

Welcome to Subject Spotlight: Inspiring Young Minds, where we take the opportunity to shine the light and focus on the many wonderful subjects which Cricklade Manor Prep teaches within its creative curriculum. Hear from our incredible specialist staff, who shape Cricklade Manor Prep’s excellence; why they are so passionate about their subject and why they think it is so important for children to study.

COMPUTER SCIENCE: Mr Fitzgerald

1) Why do you love Computer Science?

I love being involved with a subject that is forever changing and evolving. Adapting to the newest technologies and sharing these ideas with pupils is really exciting.

2) Why do you think it is important to learn about Computer Science?

In a digital age, it is really important not only to be able to use technology but for pupils to understand how technology works and look at it critically as they will be the creators of the future.

3) What benefits do you think children gain from studying Computer Science?

It covers so many skills: collaboration, creativity, communication, problem-solving, critical thinking as well as all the cross-curricular uses as well. It allows pupils to look at topics in a different and new way.

4) What do you enjoy most about being a teacher at CMP?

I love being part of an enthusiastic team of staff who work hard to create a fun and enjoyable learning environment for our pupils and where else, as an adult, can I get to explore and teach robotics with Lego on a weekly basis?!

5) How do you think CMP sets us apart from other schools and makes us truly exceptional?

I think we offer a huge range of different opportunities to motivate and inspire our pupils whether it be those interested in the Creative Arts, Sport or STEAM.

Would like to hear more about how Mr Fitzgerald is supporting Cricklade Manor Prep in investing in its future and embracing technology in the classroom? CLICK HERE to read our insightful news blog on the recent roll-out of 1:1 Surface Go devices to Year 4 students.


FOREST SCHOOL: Miss Blanford

1) Why do you love Forest School?

I love Forest School because I adore being outside in the fresh air, surrounded by nature and discovering the beauty of the outdoors.  

2) Why do you think it is important to learn about Forest School?

Learning about Forest School is important as it helps us understand the wonders of nature and the effect, we have on the world around us.

3 What benefits do you think children gain from studying Forest School?

Forest School skills help children become super curious, learn cool outdoor skills and make new forest friends.

4) What do you enjoy most about being a leader at CMP?

I love seeing the amazing ideas which the children come up with and how their creativity comes alive!

5) How do you think CMP sets us apart from other schools and makes us truly exceptional?

At CMP we’re one big family of learners, where our talents and ideas are celebrated every day.


GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP: Mrs Fairbanks

1) Why do you love Global Citizenship so much and think it’s such an important subject to learn?

The diversity of the subject is the most appealing and provides me with an opportunity to look beyond the mundane and trivial and to consider things that are really important.  

2) What benefits do you think children gain from studying Global Citizenship?

It enables the children to value their own and others’ cultures. Also, Global Citizenship creates debate and the platform to form and justify opinions on global issues (climate change for example). Children recognise they have a voice and a real opportunity to make a difference.

3) What do you enjoy most about being a teacher at CMP?

The strong sense of community, where collaboration and support create an enriching environment for both students and staff alike.

4) How do you think CMP sets us apart from other schools and makes us truly exceptional?

The diversity of the curriculum and ability to come together in whole school initiatives like ‘Green Day’, ‘Democracy Day’ and ‘Interfaith Day’