Re-imagining The School Day

Reimagining the School Day at Atelier 21

Atelier 21 redefines the traditional school day through a learner-centred, inquiry-based approach to education, designed to maximise engagement, independence and real-world understanding. Our innovative model empowers learners to actively shape their educational journey, giving them meaningful input into both the curriculum and how they learn, key elements for developing future-ready skills.

The school day blends structured academic learning with creativity, independence and experiential learning opportunities. Through timetabled core skills sessions, interdisciplinary projects and “Big Studies,” learners build essential knowledge in literacy, numeracy and critical thinking, while applying these skills in authentic, purposeful contexts that enhance retention and understanding.

A defining element of our approach is self-directed learning, where learners design and lead their own research projects based on their interests. This promotes curiosity, problem-solving, collaboration and independence highly valued competencies in modern education and the workplace. Alongside this, learners take part in a wide range of enrichment workshops, enabling them to explore passions, develop new skills and deepen their learning beyond the core curriculum.

Experiential Learning at the Heart of Atelier 21

Experiential learning is embedded in Atelier 21’s DNA, recognising that learners thrive when education is hands-on, meaningful and connected to the real world. As the UK’s first future school to integrate a globally influenced inquiry-based philosophy across both primary and secondary education, Atelier 21 is committed to making learning joyful, relevant and impactful for all learners.

For example, during Wild Friday outdoor learning, Reception learners explored a “Fascinating Fungi” project. Through this immersive enquiry, they developed scientific knowledge while investigating how mushrooms communicate through underground networks, contribute to environmental sustainability and even support human health. Learners demonstrated their understanding by sharing findings using multiple forms of expression including leaflets, art, animation, photography and presentations—building confidence, communication skills and creativity. This kind of project-based experiential learning ensures knowledge is not only acquired, but deeply understood and applied.

Inspiring Learning in a Supportive Environment

Atelier 21 is committed to delivering a high-quality, personalised education that both challenges and inspires every learner. Learners are encouraged to work at the edge of their current abilities, building resilience, confidence and a lifelong love of learning.

Educators act as facilitators, guiding and supporting learners through carefully designed experiences that balance structure with freedom. Learners benefit from a dynamic classroom environment, where they can work independently, collaborate in small groups or engage in whole-group discussions—developing strong academic, social and emotional skills.

The rhythm of the day reflects a strong ethos of respect, collaboration and engagement, ensuring that learning remains meaningful, relevant and motivating. This approach creates a future-focused learning environment where learners are empowered to thrive academically, socially and personally.

School Day Times and Wraparound Care

We provide flexible school timings and wraparound care to support families, alongside a structured and enriching learning experience.

Reception and Year 1 (Early Years & Key Stage 1)

Morning Schedule:

7:30am – Wrap-Around care available
8:15am – Classroom doors open
8:30am – Learning begins promptly

Afternoon Schedule:

3:15pm – Collection time for Reception and Year 1 learners
3:45pm – Whole school collection and school bus departure
4:30pm – Later collection available for learners with older siblings
4:30pm – 6:00pm – Wrap-Around care provision

Important Information:
Learners in Reception and Year 1 are typically collected at 3:15pm, but may remain until 3:45pm if they have older siblings or use school transport.

Primary and Upper School (Key Stage 2 & Beyond)