Lower school students take Spanish twice each week, where they are introduced to the Spanish language and culture through songs, games, stories, and conversation. Classes are conducted primarily in Spanish to help students naturally build vocabulary, listening, and speaking skills while developing cultural awareness and an appreciation for the global Spanish-speaking community.

Twice weekly, students build foundational movement skills through active, game-based learning that utilizes Haley Gym as well as the fields and green spaces found on campus. In connection with their classroom curriculum, students are exposed to a variety of skills and activities that develop coordination, confidence, and teamwork. Canterbury’s physical education classes foster a lifelong appreciation for joyful movement, participation, and healthy habits.

Through hands-on exploration in a variety of artistic mediums, Canterbury art classes encourage students to think creatively, take risks, and express their ideas with confidence. From painting and papier mache to clay pots and collage, this twice weekly class helps children develop imagination, problem-solving skills, and an appreciation for the creative process — nurturing both artistic growth and self-expression. 

Students attend music class twice each week, where they develop foundational musical skills through singing, movement, rhythm instruments, and active participation. As they explore beat, tempo, rhythm, and melody, students also begin learning to read music, recognize notes and patterns, and understand basic musical notation.

Students participate in Life Skills class once each week with Canterbury’s guidance counselor, using the Second Step curriculum to support social-emotional growth and wellness. Through age-appropriate lessons and discussion, students build skills in emotional awareness, empathy, self-regulation, relationship-building, and responsible decision-making — helping them grow in confidence, resilience, and kindness.

Students visit the library each week, where they are encouraged to grow a lifelong love of reading. Under the guidance of the school librarian, students explore new genres and authors, enjoy read-alouds and discussions, and have opportunities for quiet, independent reading. Each visit also includes time to select and check out books that spark imagination, support classroom learning, and nurture each child’s individual interests.

Our lower school spiritual development classes use the Godly Play curriculum, an Episcopal approach that invites students into the stories, symbols, and traditions of the Christian faith through wonder, storytelling, and reflection. Students are encouraged to ask questions and wonder aloud freely in a space that welcomes unique perspectives. These once weekly classes are designed to nurture each individual students’ spiritual journey while honoring the important role families and faith communities play in each child’s growth.

All Canterbury students from Cubs through 8th grade enjoy two recesses each day that provide time for play, rest, and connection with peers. Whether on the playground, grassy lawn, or blacktop, students engage in active, imaginative, and social play that supports their overall well-being. These breaks throughout the day help students return to the classroom focused, energized, and ready to learn.

To meet the wide range of academic needs within the classroom, Canterbury Lower School has two learning specialists. These dedicated educators work with students in small groups one to three times each week, providing explicit instruction, targeted skill development, and additional guidance for students who may need extra academic support. They also offer enrichment opportunities for students who are ready for additional challenges and deeper exploration. Through close collaboration with classroom teachers and families, our learning support team helps ensure each child is appropriately supported, challenged, and encouraged as a learner.