Book Appointment

Our Learning Space for Ages 8–10yrs

Growing Independence Through Curiosity, Creativity & Community

Welcome to our learning space for children aged 8 to 10 — a vibrant, thoughtful, and collaborative environment where curiosity deepens, independence grows, and learning becomes something children actively shape for themselves.

At this stage, many children are ready to take more ownership of their learning while still benefiting from clear structure, strong relationships, and creative guidance. Students can attend 1, 2, or 3 days per week, allowing families to choose a rhythm that best supports their child.

A Natural Step Forward

This group offers a natural progression from our younger learning spaces. Children are encouraged to ask bigger questions, explore ideas in greater depth, and begin making more intentional choices about how and what they learn.
With consistent routines and trusted educators, students gain confidence in their abilities while learning how to work collaboratively within a group.
Here, education adapts to the child — not the other way around.

Self-Directed Learning With Support

Learning in our 8–10 group is guided by students’ curiosity and questioning. Through a Socratic, discussion-based approach, children help shape their learning — choosing areas to explore individually or together, setting intentions, and reflecting on their progress.

At our weekly democratic meeting, students and teachers decide on shared topics and group initiatives. This ensures that learning remains meaningful, relevant, and rooted in children’s real interests. Research homework and written assignments are always optional, keeping learning intrinsically motivated.

Creativity & Connected Learning

Our learning takes a creative and interdisciplinary approach, linking science, humanities, and the arts through real-world themes and the natural environment.
Learning is experiential, imaginative, and hands-on — supporting children to make connections, think creatively, and see the bigger picture behind what they are studying.

Alongside topic-based learning, some subjects are taught separately to support depth and skill-building.

  • Literature: Students explore novels, poems, and plays chosen by the group, often linked to the term’s topic.

  • Maths: Taught independently to build confidence and strong foundations.

  • Creative Writing: A space for complete freedom, where children can write stories, poetry, or ideas inspired by their own interests.

Democratic Education in Action

Democracy becomes more active and meaningful at this age.
In our democratic meetings, students suggest ideas, initiatives, and even rules — learning how to listen, discuss, and make collective decisions. Beyond these meetings, children can take part in student-led committees and workshops, developing leadership, responsibility, and a sense of shared ownership of the community.

Meet our group leader

Our 8-10 years group lead is Emma.

After spending 12 years in secondary education in Leeds and Doncaster,  Emma later home-educated her daughter and worked at a Montessori Elementary School before joining us.

Passionate about lifelong learning, Emma is dedicated to exploring different educational approaches and creating inspiring experiences for the children she works with. She has completed a child and family yoga course with Rainbow Yoga and is training as a Play Therapist with PTUK.

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Hours:
Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays
9:35am – 3:15pm
Flexible attendance – 1, 2, or 3 days per week.

  • Morning Routine

  • The World Today with Emma

  • Break

  • Literature with Emma

  • Lunch Break

  • Drama (combined groups) with Emma

  • Morning Routine

  • Creative Writing with Nimrod

  • Break

  • Science with Gemma

  • Lunch Break

  • Art with Anisha

  • Morning Routine

  • Maths with Emma

  • Break

  • Topic-Based Learning with Emma

  • Lunch Break

  • Democratic Meeting

  • Students Decide with Emma

We are an Ofsted-registered childcare provider. There are various means of support available to help cover fees from tax-free childcare, working tax credits, childcare vouchers and other sources.

We offer the choice or going for a walk in the beautiful Nutclough woods or staying indoors for fun movement and meditation. 

Our 4 Wellbeing Pillars