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LEARNING FOR LIFE • LEARNING FOR LIFE • LEARNING FOR LIFE • LEARNING FOR LIFE THE EARLY YEARS


THE British education system is recognised as being among the best in the world.


Children start school earlier than in many other parts of Europe – particularly when you take into account the fact a large percentage start their education in a pre- school or private nursery. Now, the Government’s ambition is to provide high quality care for all children aged two, as it is well known that top quality early years learning can be a highly effective way of improving social mobility. Research has shown there can be a skills gap of up to 18 months between the most deprived and the most advantaged children, which often becomes entrenched once youngsters start primary school.


Valuable lessons can be learned at a very early age, when teaching is done through play, where the child learns about subjects and other people through games. Choosing a good primary school is clearly paramount, but with over- subscription becoming an


increasing problem, exasperated parents can find the choice being made for them.


In Maidstone, the growth of academies and free schools has seen a number of new primary schools emerging including the Tiger School in Loose and, more recently, the Jubilee Primary School in Barming.


In other parts of town, infant and junior schools have merged – as in Madginford – while Archbishop Courtenay Primary in Tovil is one of a number of church schools -one which sports a magnificent new building and facilities, following the merger of two previous schools.


Early years learning concentrates on seven key areas: communication and language, physical development, personal, social and emotional development, literacy, mathematics, understanding the world, expressive arts and design. Seamless education from reception class through to age 11 is the preferred option of many parents


and, for those who want their children’s learning to stay that way until 18, they have the choice of selecting independent education.


A good foundation will always reap rewards, particularly in


Kent, which still has selective education post 11.


Fortunately, Maidstone has a rich choice of secondary and grammar schools with few of the problems which beset many inner city establishments.


Maidstone Town November 2014


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