At Heath Mount, we start pupils swimming early. Swimming is embedded in the curriculum for all pupils, with weekly sessions starting in Reception. Using interactive songs, games, and play, our highly experienced coaches make each lesson fun and stimulating. In the next few weeks, our Nursery pupils will have their first splash in the pool, with specially crafted taster sessions designed to get them excited about starting lessons next academic year. Why is swimming so beneficial to children under 5? The benefits of swimming extend far beyond water safety and physical progress, to enhanced brain development and a marked increase in maths and literacy skills.* Learning to swim involves following instructions, problem-solving, counting, and developing verbal skills, all of which are key skills for young learners. It also has an emotional and social impact. Gaining confidence in the water can be a struggle for some children, but by facing their fears and facing challenges, they build self-esteem and resilience, essential skills that also support their ability to learn. Want to learn more about our specialist swimming and physical education provision in the Early Years? Email Louise at registrar@heathmount.org or visit the link in bio to book your private tour with the Headmaster. *Research undertaken by Professor Roby Jorgensen at the Griffith Institute for Educational Research found that children who start swimming young, achieve a host of skills sooner than those who don't. He shared that "children were anywhere from six to 15 months ahead of the normal population when it came to cognitive skills, problem-solving in mathematics, counting, language and following instructions." #loveswimming #privateschool #curriculum #swimming #earlyyears #development #reception

Our Year 8 students turned into start-up teams this term, designing innovative health & fitness apps and pitching them Dragon's Den style! From learning about UX/UI design to tackling cybersecurity, data protection, and income streams, they brought real-world start-up skills to life. Standout ideas included: Inside Out – wellbeing tracked through growing trees MealPlan Clan – AI-powered meal suggestions Active Quest – compete in fitness leagues Mrs Annies was very impressed by the pupils' creativity, entrepreneurial flair and the confidence they displayed when delivering their pitches. #HeathMount #Computing #FutureTech #StudentInnovation #futureready

Year 6 enjoyed a sunny, adventure-filled residential stay at Osmington Bay PGL last week. From dragon boat racing and team-building tasks, to zip-lining and abseiling, the pupils threw themselves into the group and individual challenges with great determination. Their teachers were incredibly proud of the way in which the children supported and encouraged one another. Thank you to the @pgl.adventures team and the school staff for making sure Year 6 took away some very happy memories to look back on. #friendship #schooltrip #independence

Well done to Year 8 pupils Zach and Daisy who represented Heath Mount at the @iapsuksport sailing competition in Portland, Dorset. Despite less than ideal conditions and tough competition from local schools, they achieved a very respectable 12th place out of 33 boats. What's even more impressive is that this was their first time sailing together, displaying that renowned Heath Mount team spirit and determination! It's fantastic to see Zach and Daisy enjoying their sailing and developing their interests outside of school. Zach is also a keen golfer, guitarist and trombone player while Daisy plays drums and violin and sings in our Bax choir. Both are also members of our LEGO Robotics team!