Private Primary School for Age 3 to Year 5
For our youngest pupils, the Queen Ethelburga’s journey begins in Chapter House, a nurturing private primary school near York offering both day and boarding options in a warm, family-focused environment.
Nestled safely within our expansive 220-acre school estate, Chapter House provides a stimulating setting where children can learn, explore, and discover - both inside the classroom and beyond. Our expert team fosters a love for learning through imaginative play, engaging lessons, and hands-on experiences designed to spark curiosity.
Friendship, exploration, and creativity are at the heart of daily life. Pupils embark on exciting learning adventures, from uncovering the wonders of Africa, Castles, and Polar Regions to bringing subjects like literacy, numeracy, science, and humanities to life through dynamic, interactive lessons.
From the magic and wonder of Explorers Nursery and our Early Years classrooms, filled with natural materials and spaces for imaginative play, to the enchanting woodland setting of our Forest School, no two days are the same. As pupils develop their skills and confidence, they build a lifelong love for learning, supported every step of the way.
“In Chapter House, pupils lay down secure foundations for their later learning, and make good progress, particularly in numeracy and literacy.”
Queen Ethelburga's ISI Inspection report, October 2023
Activities and Trips Around Yorkshire
Learning and discovery are not limited to the classroom at Chapter House.
Playtimes and evenings are a time for fun, whether spending time with friends or learning new skills through enrichment activities like first aid, mindfulness, Sign & Sing, and newspaper club - there is something for everyone!
For those with a passion for learning, we offer accelerated clubs in English, Mathematics and Science, providing an early introduction to the Stretch and Challenge curriculum.
Our primary school's location between York, Leeds, and Harrogate provides endless opportunities for exciting activities and enriching trips. Pupils explore Harlow Carr, York’s Chocolate Story, and Leeds Playhouse, as well as enjoy a residential trip, creating memories that last a lifetime.
Supporting Every Child -
Our dedicated Wellbeing and Welfare teams are always available to offer extra support for both pupils and their families.
Located in the Queen Ethelburga’s Pastoral Centre, this welcoming space provides a friendly environment where children can enjoy a chat over hot chocolate, unwind with a board game, or simply relax in a quiet corner.
We also keep our class sizes small, ensuring that our teachers truly get to know each child: their strengths, learning styles, and unique needs. This personalised approach means we tailor our teaching to help every child grow in confidence and be the best they can be.
- Every Step of the Way
Your child's curiosity is a journey that extends beyond the classroom, and we believe that open communication between parents and teachers is the key to every child's success.
In Early Years, parents receive daily updates through Tapestry, an online journal for their child's development. Regular communication is maintained through planners, allowing teachers to provide reading support and personalised guidance to help learning continue at home.
In Key Stages One and Two, teachers update parents half-termly through meetings and written reports.
Beyond academic updates, parents are regularly invited to Stay and Play sessions, Coffee Mornings, and a variety of concerts, class assemblies, garden parties, and charity events. Prospective parents are also encouraged to join these events to meet current families and experience our nurturing environment first-hand.
Book an upcoming event here.
Forest School
A happy childhood begins in the great outdoors.
At Chapter House, the Forest School is based in a large woodland area on-site. It provides the perfect playground for children to spend their afternoon searching for minibeasts, climbing trees, hiding from The Gruffalo and making dens.
