Our Headmaster, Mr Ross Montague, argues that compound learning from age 2 is an important component of 7+ and 8+ examination success.
Should children experience compound learning from age 2 if they are facing challenging 7+ and 8+ independent school examinations in due course? At Eaton House Belgravia School for boys aged 2-11, we have been entering boys for entrance into Westminster, St Paul’s School, and other fine schools since 1897, and we increasingly feel that Nursery is a natural part of the foundation learning needed.
At Eaton House Belgravia, we embrace the importance of the early years in a child’s life, aligning with Aristotle’s belief that experiences from birth to age 7 significantly shape their future. Aristotle said, ‘Give me a child until he is 7 and I will show you the man.’ Our approach, termed ‘Compound Learning’, mirrors the principle of compound interest in finance, emphasising the accumulative effect of education from an early age.
A key advantage of children joining us at the age of 2+ is the notable development in their ‘behaviour for learning’. Our curriculum, starting at age 2, is crafted to provide a blend of academic learning and personal growth. This method ensures that by age 7, our students are well-prepared, reflecting the impact of consistent, quality education from a young age. We prioritise the happiness of our students, understanding that a contented child is more receptive to learning.
‘Compound Learning’ at Eaton House Belgravia Nursery is about building knowledge and skills step by step. This approach helps our students make significant progress, setting a strong foundation for their future learning and success. Children benefit from a blend of exploration, play and outdoor activities. These can include cooking, yoga, dressing up and an introduction to reading and seasonal celebrations and outings to Belgravia Square and other places.
This approach is complemented by early exposure to frequent, short, structured lessons focusing on core foundational skills in maths and English. Such an introduction facilitates a seamless and intuitive transition to our more accelerated Kindergarten curriculum at 4+.
This early cultivation of learning behaviours significantly contributes to their academic progress in Kindergarten, laying a robust foundation for their educational journey and success at 7 and 8 plus.
