Early Years & Prep School for Girls in Leicester
Why Choose Leicester High School for Girls for Early Years?
Leicester High School for Girls offers an independent Early Years Foundation Stage in Leicester for girls aged 3 to 5.
Girls can join our Foundation Class from their third birthday before moving into Reception in the year they turn five. As part of an all-through school, they benefit from a calm, caring environment and a smooth transition into Junior School and beyond.
Our EYFS helps girls develop confidence, curiosity and independence from the very beginning.t.
Girls in our Early Years benefit from:
- Small class sizes
- Experienced Early Years teachers
- Specialist teaching opportunities
- Excellent pastoral care
- A calm and nurturing environment
- Strong preparation for future learning
- The continuity of an all-through school
Girls joining our Foundation Class may also be eligible for up to 15 or 30 hours of government funding for 3 and 4-year-olds.
More Than a Typical Preschool Experience
Unlike many preschools, girls in EYFS are fully part of school life from the very start.
They take part in:
- PE lessons
- Assemblies
- Music lessons
- School performances
- Outdoor learning experiences
- Themed celebration days
Reception girls also enjoy weekly ballet lessons with Mrs Loomes from the Karen Loomes Dance Academy, helping build confidence, coordination and creativity.
Being part of a wider independent school community helps girls feel comfortable, confident and excited about learning as they grow.
Our daughter settled so quickly into Foundation Class and has grown enormously in confidence. She loves exploring The Spinney, joining assemblies and talking about everything she has discovered each day. The staff know her so well and genuinely care about every child as an individual."
Outdoor Learning in The Spinney
Every week, EYFS girls explore The Spinney, our woodland learning area within the school grounds.
Outdoor learning helps girls develop:
- Resilience
- Independence
- Teamwork
- Confidence
Activities may include den building, tree climbing, minibeast hunting, outdoor storytelling and hot chocolate in the woodland area.
Girls wear waterproof suits and wellies so they can enjoy outdoor learning throughout the year.
Learning Through Discovery
Our play-based EYFS curriculum combines structured learning with creativity, exploration and discovery.
Topics may include:
- Me and My Community
- Once Upon a Time
- Marvellous Machines
- Puppets and Pop-Ups
- Winter Wonderland
Learning is brought to life through themed days, trips and memorable experiences. Recent examples have included Chinese New Year, Diwali, Spring Celebration, Seaside Day, Rockingham Castle, West Lodge Farm, Foxton Locks, Leicester Botanical Gardens and local nature walks.
These experiences help girls connect classroom learning with the wider world.
Exceptional Pastoral Care and Wellbeing
Pastoral care is central to life at Leicester High School for Girls.
In Early Years, staff take time to get to know each girl as an individual. We help girls build friendships, develop independence, learn kindness and feel confident trying new things.
Our close relationship with parents helps ensure every child is supported both at school and at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should my child go to an all-through school?
An all-through school provides continuity, familiarity and stability from an early age through to Sixth Form. Girls build strong relationships with teachers and classmates and often feel more confident as they move through the school.
Is private school worth it for the primary years?
The early years are an important time for building confidence, curiosity and core skills. Small class sizes, specialist teaching and individual support can make a lasting difference during these formative years.
What are the advantages of starting school at age 3 instead of 7?
Starting earlier helps girls settle into school life gradually and confidently. They become familiar with routines, develop friendships and benefit from a strong foundation before moving into the older year groups.
What are the benefits of a girls’ school from a young age?
Girls’ schools can provide an environment where pupils feel confident to participate, lead and try new things. Many parents value the supportive atmosphere and the opportunities for girls to develop independence from an early age.
Is a small independent school better for confidence?
Smaller schools often allow teachers to know each child well as an individual. This personalised approach can help girls feel supported, encouraged and confident in the classroom and beyond.
Visit Our EYFS in Leicester
We warmly welcome families looking for:
- An excellent EYFS in Leicester
- Independent preschool education
- A girls’ prep school in Leicester
- Small class size Early Years education
- A nurturing independent school environment
To arrange a visit, please email admissions@leicesterhigh.co.uk or contact our Admissions Team. We would be delighted to show you how our Early Years Foundation Stage helps girls grow in confidence from the very start.